PANTHERS CLAIM 9-3 WIN AT BARSTOW

The Panthers opened the 3-game Barstow series on the road yesterday claiming a big 9-3 win over the Vikings.  With three runs scored in the 2nd and two additional in the 3rd, Chaffey set the pace for the game, dominating the offense from the outset.

Clay Porter opened the scoring machine for Chaffey with a single in the 2nd to score Marty Grisso and put the Panthers on the board.  Jarid Bujanda followed with a 2 RBI single to score Porter and Andrew Cordero.

In the 3rd, Cole Howarth followed a Zach Kim triple with a sac fly to bring Kim in.  With one out, Javier Mendez was caught trying to grab 2nd allowing Nate Slaman to steal home.  Score 5-0.

"Zach Kim continues to play the game at a high level and I am excited for his continued success the rest of this season and carrying it into next year," said Head Coach Andy Smith.  The starting shortstop had three hits including the triple in the 3rd.

The 7th saw Bujanda score on a Troy Holland fielder's choice followed by an 8th inning sac fly by Porter to bring in Alex Cummings; taking the score to 7-2.  A final push by the Panthers in the 9th came from designated hitter Brandon Link who reached first on an error giving him one earned and one unearned RBI.

"The pitchers did a good job overcoming some adverse elements and a smaller strike zone."  Tuesday's bullpen began with Anthony Barrera who earned the day's win.  He was followed by Ethan Bautista, James Cantarero, Adam Aguirre, and Brandon Wedge. 

The Panthers continue the series with a Thursday doubleheader being played at Barstow.