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Tobs earn split with Sharks

June 15, 2008

Wilmington, NC — After yielding a Coastal Plain League record with 32 runs allowed against Fayetteville Saturday night, the Wilmington Sharks allowed a combined two runs in their double header with the Wilson Tobs Sunday. Fortunately for the Tobs, they were able to earn a split thanks to the arm of Tim Adleman in the first game. Adleman tossed a complete game gem as the Tobs took the first game, 1-0, and Wilmington answered back in game two with a 3-1 victory. The loss puts the Tobs at 7-7, and Wilmington is now 7-9 on the season.

In game one, the Tobs scored the only run of the game in the third inning. Packy Elkins and Justin Parks both hit consecutive two out singles, and Chris Henderson came through with an RBI single to right field, scoring Elkins. Adleman was masterful, tossing a complete game (only 7 innings) while allowing just two hits and a walk, striking out eight opposing hitters. Bryant Gaines, starting for the Sharks, was excellent as well, giving up just one over the full seven innings.

After a thirty minute break between games, the clubs had at it again. Taylor Miller started for the Tobs, and was hit around during a three run third inning for the Sharks. Using the hit-and-run to their advantage, Wilmington plated three runs on five hits. It would have been more if not for Jared Richmond's perfect throw to home plate, nailing Wilmington's John Nester as he tried to score on the fifth hit of the inning.

Wilson answered right back in the top of the fourth, loading the bases with two outs. Catcher Ross Steedley caught a break and picked up an RBI as he was hit by a pitch from starter Matt Freeman, scoring Chris Henderson from third base. Then, with Nick Hogan at the plate, the game took a turn for the worse. Freeman's first pitch was wild, and Matt Sanders raced home from third. Wilmington's catcher Kolby Epley tossed to Freeman covering the plate. Sanders was ruled out on a close play, ending the inning and the threat. Eventually, Sanders was tossed from the game.

The Tobs would threaten once more against Freeman in the sixth, putting two runners on base with one out after a single and an error. However, Freeman retired Kevin Weidenbacher on a ground ball before being removed for reliever Matt Patterson. Patterson then retired Jared Richmond on one pitch with the tying runners on second and third. Patterson picked up the save, tossing 1.1 scoreless innings, while Freeman earned his first victory of the season. Taylor Miller lasted just three for the Tobs, and T.J. Hinson tossed three scoreless innings in relief.

Wilson will attempt to break the .500 mark tomorrow night at home against the Columbia Blowfish. Game time is set for 7:05 PM on LeBleu Water Night at Historic Fleming Stadium, where Tobs fans in attendance can receive a commemorative water bottle. Radio coverage begins on the CPL WebPass and WUBN 106.9 FM at 6:45 PM with Eric Kopp.

The Wilson Tobs are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nation's hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its twelfth season, the Coastal Plain League features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at www.coastalplain.com.

Contact:
Eric Kopp
252-291-8627