Late Sanford Rally Hands Diamond Dawgs 3-2 Defeat

SANFORD, Fla. — The Winter Park Diamond Dawgs came up just short Thursday night, falling 3-2 to the Sanford River Rats at Sanford Memorial Stadium after surrendering the lead in the sixth inning of a weather-shortened contest.

The Diamond Dawgs were locked in a pitching duel early as starter Cameron Hanes turned in a strong outing, allowing one run over four innings while keeping Sanford's offense in check. The River Rats broke through first in the second inning when Jake Schincariol ripped an RBI triple down the right-field line to give Sanford a 1-0 advantage.

Winter Park answered in the fifth inning. Mason Mojica delivered an RBI double to center field, scoring Colton Musgrave and tying the game at 1-1. Moments later, Clay Mitchell lined an RBI single into right-center field to bring home Ethan Zagers and give the Diamond Dawgs their first lead of the night at 2-1.

Sanford responded in the bottom of the sixth. Drew Pynes tied the game with an RBI single before Tyler Meyer lifted a sacrifice fly to right field, bringing home the go-ahead run and putting the River Rats ahead 3-2.

The Diamond Dawgs collected six hits in the loss, with Jacob Pearl, Garrett Frost, Evan Taveras, Mojica, Mitchell and Osmin Melendez each recording a hit. Mojica and Frost added doubles, while Mojica and Mitchell drove in Winter Park's two runs. Despite a solid defensive effort that included a double play, the Dawgs were unable to answer before severe weather halted play.

Following a weather delay, officials called the game with Sanford leading 3-2, handing the River Rats their third consecutive victory.

Winter Park returns to action Friday against Sanford at Alfond Stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m.

Justin Baltes (UCF)