Sam Farber, Director of Broadcasting, Inland Empire 66ers
Adelanto, CA— Vernon Wells recorded a three run double and scored twice himself in a 12-9 win for Inland Empire (26-32) at High Desert (28-30). The win is the 66ers third in their last four games and give Inland Empire a chance at the first three game sweep of the Mavericks at High Desert in five years.
Rehabbing Halo Vernon Wells had several opportunities to test himself both defensively on a busy night in left field, and on the base paths. At the plate Wells recorded his first hit as a 66er with two outs and the bases loaded in the second and his team down two runs. The big leaguer delivered with a bases clearing double to the left field corner to give his team the lead.
The lead did not last long however, as starter Kyle Hurst struggled initially allowing six runs on five hits in the first two innings. He would settle down to put up zeroes his last four innings without allowing a hit.
Inland Empire moved back in front for good in the fourth on an error by Mavs infielder Gabriel Noriega, and extended the lead in the fifth. With Vernon Wells at second base Mike Wing hit a single to left field. Wells showed good speed beating the throw home, further proof he should be ready to rejoin the Angels as early as Tuesday. That run put Inland Empire up 9-6.
The 66ers added two more runs in the sixth on three straight doubles to open the inning by Casey Haerther , Jose Jimenez and Steven Irvine. Haerther had a marquee night going three-for-three with two walks and three runs scored. Kole Calhoun was one better with a four-for-four effort, two doubles and a run scored.
The win was still not assured in the ninth though. David Carpenter came in on a night where the two pitching staffs combined to allow 21 runs on 31 hits, and shut down the Mavs for a scoreless ninth and his eighth save of the season.
Inland Empire now has a chance to sweep the High Desert Mavericks for the first time since 2008, and the first time in Adelanto since May of 2006. Harold Williams will be on the mound for the 66ers. Fans can hear all the action beginning with the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians pre-game show at 6:55 pm on AM 1050 KCAA. For information on 66ers tickets or to schedule your next fun filled group outing, contact the 66ers front office at (909)888-9922.
