Wild Things Fall 5-2 in Middle Game to Lake Erie, Magic Number to Clinch Playoff Berth Remains at Fo

WASHINGTON, Pa. (Aug. 25) – The Washington Wild Things fell again to the Lake Erie Crushers Saturday by a final score of 5-2 in the second game of the three-game set. The Wild Things (50-38) have struggled this season against the Crushers (46-43), posting a 1-7 record, while maintaining a 49-32 record against the rest of the Frontier League.

The magic number to clinch a playoff berth remains at four games, while the magic number to claim the East Division crown is down to seven.

In the first inning Lake Erie was able to plate two runs off a sacrifice fly from first baseman Cody Lenahan and an RBI single from left fielder Terry McClure.

After the first, Wild Things starter Chase Cunningham (7-6) was able to recover and toss another 5.2 innings while only letting up one other run in that span.

In the top of the third, Washington started its comeback attempt with a solo shot to left field by center fielder James Harris. This marked the 15th home run of the year for the Frontier League All-Star.

The Wild Things were able to keep the comeback alive in the bottom of the fourth after designated hitter Kyle Pollock reached on an error and was eventually waved home on an RBI single from shortstop Ryan Cox, tying the game at two runs apiece.

In the top of the sixth the Crushers took the lead again after two straight doubles from shortstop Aaron Hill and Lenahan, with Lenahan picking up the RBI and making the score 3-2.

That would prove to be the go ahead run even though Lake Erie would plate two more runs in the eighth inning to bring the score to its final, 5-2.

Harris, left fielder Roman Collins and catcher Chase Simmons each recorded two hits in the game for Washington.

The Wild Things are back in action tomorrow for game three of the series with Lake Erie. Thomas Dorminy takes the mound for Washington to try and salvage a win from the series. First pitch is set for 5:35 p.m.