Trash Pandas win first series defeating Barons 5-3
MADISON, Ala. (WHNT) — The Rocket City Trash Pandas earned its first series victory of the 2024 season with a 5-3 win over the Birmingham Barons.
Infielder Eric Wagaman hit a team-leading fourth double to drive in the game’s opening run in the first. Wagaman would then score on a single from outfielder Tucker Flint to put the Trash Pandas up 2-0.
Birmingham responded in the next half inning with infielder Tim Elko hitting a solo shot to cut the Rocket City lead in half. Outfielder Jacob Burke drove in the game-tying run on a single just two batters later.
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Outfielder Gustavo Campero got the lead back for Rocket City with a run-scoring single which was the third hit in a row for the Trash Pandas. One batter later, infielder Mac McCroskey drove in Flint on a safety squeeze. Campero struck again in the fifth with a hard-hit double, driving in his second run of the day and giving the home team a 5-2 lead against Barons starting pitcher Jake Eder (L, 1-1)
Rocket City starting pitcher Alan Rangel (W, 1-0) kept the Trash Pandas in front with six strong innings in his second start of the year. Rangel struck out nine batters and allowed just two runs.
The Barons got a run back in the seventh as Turner scored off a single from infielder Jacob Burke with assistance from a Campero fielding error.
Trash Pandas secure victory against Barons in home opener
Trash Pandas pitcher Mason Erla (S, 2) struck out Elko with the bases loaded and two outs in the eighth and remained in the game to complete a four-out save.
The Trash Pandas will hit the road to begin a six-game series with the Pensacola Blue Wahoos on Tuesday. The first pitch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m
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