Squeeze Power Past River Rats in Weather-Shortened Contest

WINTER GARDEN, Fla. — Alexander Galan drove in both runs for the Winter Garden Squeeze in a 2-1 victory over the Sanford River Rats in a game called after five innings because of a weather delay.

Sanford grabbed the early lead in the top of the first inning. Jordan Marlo scored on a fielder's choice off the bat of John Dobkowski, giving the River Rats a 1-0 advantage.

The lead was short-lived, however, as Galan answered in the bottom half of the inning with a solo home run to left field, tying the game at 1-1.

Winter Garden took the lead for good in the third inning. Wilfredo Soto came around to score on Galan's sacrifice fly to right field, putting the Squeeze ahead 2-1.

The Squeeze pitching staff made the lead stand up the rest of the way. Starter Jason Sawyer earned the win, allowing one run on three hits over three innings while striking out three. Julian Pitts worked 1.1 scoreless innings of relief, and Caleb Clanton recorded the final two outs to earn his first save of the season.

The River Rats threatened throughout the shortened contest but could not capitalize on their opportunities. Sanford managed three hits and drew four walks but was held scoreless after the opening inning.

Philip DeVita took the loss, allowing two runs on six hits over three innings. He struck out one and did not issue a walk. Jack Waller followed with a scoreless fourth inning, allowing no hits while striking out one.

The game was halted by weather after five innings and later called, making the result official.

Alejandro Landers (Elon)