Gateway outslugs Wild Things, 16-12
SAUGET, Ill. – Abdiel Diaz homered and drove in five runs, helping Gateway build an early eight-run lead and the Grizzlies went on to a 16-12 victory over the Wild Things at Arsenal BG Ballpark on Wednesday night.
The Wild Things’ magic number for clinching a Frontier League playoff berth remains at 1. Because of Schaumburg’s 10-0 victory over Evansville, Washington’s magic number for clinching the Central Division title dropped to 8. The Wild Things lead Evansville by three games with 10 remaining.
Gateway started fast, building an 8-0 lead in the second inning. Washington scored five runs in the top of the third inning, but Gateway answered with four in the bottom half for a 12-5 lead after three innings. The Wild Things chipped away at the deficit and pulled to within 13-11 in the top of the eighth, but Gateway scored three times in the bottom of the inning.
The Grizzlies hit three home runs, including Dale Thomas’ 19th of the season in the second inning.
Anthony Brocato hit his league-leading 31st home run for Washington. Wagner Lagrange and Miles Simington also homered. Cole Fowler had three hits.
Gateway starter Gage Vailes (5-5) gave up eight runs in five innings. Washington’s Kenton Egbert (1-2) allowed 14 hits and 12 runs in only three innings.