Crushers’ offense steps up, takes second straight win over Evansville

In a two-game homestand against mighty Evansville, the Crushers have played impressive baseball.

July 4, the Crushers pulled through late to defeat the Otters, 4-2, for their second straight win in the series.

“We talked about some philosophical things with the hitters,” Crushers manager Jared Lemieux said. “They took it to heart and are executing our plan. Having each other’s backs is big. We were able to do it in the last couple of games with two outs. So, from a manager’s standpoint, it’s really good to see.”

The Crushers took a 2-0 lead in the fourth inning, but Evansville tied it, 2-2, in the sixth. Crushers designated hitter Jack Harris took a 4-2 lead from a two-RBI single in the seventh to change the tide.

“I knew that (the pitcher) was a low-guy coming in. I was trying to see a fastball in the zone and get ready for it and put a good swing on it,” Harris said.

They totaled 10 hits on the afternoon, seven of which came in the fourth and seventh innings. Harris credits the long at-bats, defense and pitching to give the Crushers momentum at the plate.

“I think we’ve had longer (at-bats),” Harris said. “I think for the last couple of days, the pitchers have done a really good job keeping us close and getting off the field as quickly as they can get us off. They have been throwing strikes, doing a good job. They keep the momentum and we take that to the plate.”

J.D. Hammer started on the mound to throw 5 1/3 innings, allowing one earned run with seven strikeouts. He was relieved by Trevor Kuncl. Relief pitcher Darrien Ragins earned the win and Brayden Bonner got his first save. The Otters totaled three hits.

“J.D. (Hammer) has become comfortable as a starter. He is doing great. I am really happy to see him doing well. Our bullpen was able to hold it down and give (the game) up late,” Lemieux said.

Harris totaled two hits with third baseman Kenen Irizarry, who hit the first run of the game in the fourth inning.

“Jack Harris came through and Todd (Isaacs) got a big hit before him too. That is what we need out of our leaders today. I was very pleased,” Lemieux said.

Over 6 1/3 innings, Evansville’s starting pitcher Tim Holdgrafe gave up eight hits for three earned runs and seven strikeouts. He was given the loss.

The Crushers improved to 20-27, as they try and climb up the West Division standings. They are one game behind the Windy City Thunderbolts (20-25).

The Otters dropped to 26-20, as they drop 1.5 games below Schaumburg (27-18). They are third in the West Division and are five games ahead of Florence (21-25).