GARY HELMICK POWERS DELMARVA TO 9-4 WIN

Jake Cowan Dominates in Six Shutout Innings
Box Score

Greensboro, N.C. – The Delmarva Shorebirds (5-2) hit three home runs and cruised to a 9-4 win over the Greensboro Grasshoppers (2-5) in game three at NewBridge Bank Park. Gary Helmick had a career day with two home runs and five RBIs. Jake Cowan stifled the Grasshoppers in six shutout innings to earn his first win of the season. The Shorebirds now rank second in the South Atlantic League with seven home runs.

A pitcher’s duel was in progress between Cowan and Chad James, Greensboro’s starter, until the fourth inning. Tyler Kolodny and Mikey Planeta recorded back-to-back singles. Two batters later, Gary Helmick hit a home run over the left field wall to lift the ‘Birds in front 3-0.

In the fifth inning, the Shorebirds padded their lead. Brian Conley hit a leadoff triple to the wall in left field. Helmick then hit his second homer of the night, inside the foul pole in left field off reliever Bryan Evans to give the Shorebirds a 5-0 edge.

The Shorebirds powered further ahead in the seventh inning. With one out, Levi Carolus was hit by a pitch. Tyler Kolodny followed with a long home run to left field to give the ‘Birds a 7-0 lead.

In the eighth, Levi Carolus hit a two run double off the right field wall to drive home Garabez Rosa and T.J. Baxter to give Delmarva a 9-0 lead.

Jake Cowan earned his first win of the season in six dominating innings. He struck out six batters and walked just one.

The Shorebirds recorded double-digit hits for the sixth time in seven games. The Shorebirds have 76 hits on the season.

The Shorebirds are back in action on Thursday night at 7:05 p.m. Orioles first round selection in 2009, Matt Hobgood, makes his second start of the season.