SHOREBIRDS BLAST INTIMIDATORS, 10-4, IN GAME THREE

‘Birds Record Season High 17 hits

Kannapolis, N.C. – After scoring just three runs in two games against Kannapolis, the Shorebirds used 17 hits to pound the Intimidators 10-4 in game three at Fieldcrest Cannon Stadium on Friday night. Shorebirds right fielder Brian Conley went 4-4 with two walks. He reached base in all six of his at-bats.

The Intimidators were first to act in the second inning. Kyle Colligan whistled a triple to the left field corner to lead off the frame. Then, Brady Shoemaker grounded to third, which allowed Colligan to score.

The Shorebirds responded in the third inning. Mike Mooney, Ty Kelly and Brian Conley ignited the rally with three straight singles against Kannapolis starter, Cameron Bayne. Then, Tyler Stampone singled to left field to score Mooney. Left fielder Brady Shoemaker misplayed the grounder, which allowed Kelly and Conley to score as well. With Stampone at third on the two base error, Steve Bumbry hit a sacrifice fly to center field to give the ‘Birds a 4-1 edge.

In the fourth inning, the Shorebirds tacked on a run. Gary Helmick was hit by a pitch to open the frame. Then, Kannapolis starter Cameron Bayne threw wild to first on a pick off, which pushed Helmick to third. On a grounder to second, Gary Helmick came into score as the throw home was late from Daniel Wagner.

Kannapolis scored two runs in the fifth inning to cut the deficit to 5-3. Jake Oester hit a double to score Jose Vargas. Then, Jesus Villegas delivered a sacrifice fly to left field to score Kevin Dubler.

The Shorebirds plated their sixth run in the seventh inning. Steve Bumbry hit a lined double down the left field line to plate Mikey Planeta.

In the eighth inning, the Shorebirds bridged an insurmountable gap. The ‘Birds sent 10 batters to the plate and scored four more runs. Six of their season high 17 hits came in the inning.

Jesse Beal was very efficient for the ‘Birds tonight. In seven innings, he allowed just six hits and three runs. Beal earned his third win of the season. The loss was pinned on Bayne.

The Shorebirds play the series finale on Saturday night at 7:05 p.m.