Sters Sweep Prune Packers’ Double Dip

BOX SCORE: Game 1
BOX SCORE: Game 2

Photo by Vic Neumann
The Foresters got back on the winning track by winning both games of a doubleheader in Healdsburg, defeating the Prune Packers 2-0 and 7-5. The victories run the Sters’ record to an impressive 17-1.

The opener featured a “Johnny AllStaff” four-hit performance by a parade of Sters pitchers: Gavin Velasquez, Hunter Breault, Elliott Anderson, and finally Bryce Elder in his season debut. The quartet struck out 13 while walking only two. They were backed by a 12-hit attack led by Logan Allen’s three hits, and Chase Illig, John Jensen, and Ryan Cash with a pair each. Allen’s hits include an RBI, while Brandon Zaragoza knocked in the second run with a sac fly. It was a nice rebound after Healdsburg pitchers held Santa Barbara in check during Tuesday’s shutout loss.

In the nightcap, it was the bats that did the most damage. Conor Davis had three RBI, while Cash added a two-run triple. Zaragoza, Illig, and Luke Ritter each scored a pair of runs. They backed a six-pack of Foresters pitchers who held Healdsburg down until a scary ninth. With Santa Barbara up 7-2, two hit batters and a walk were followed by a bases-loaded walk and a two-run double to make things tight. But James Notary came on to save the game with the bases loaded.

After a long overnight bus trip, the Foresters will get some much-needed sleep and be back on the field Thursday for Santa Barbara Independent Day vs. the SoCal Catch. First pitch is 6 pm at Pershing Park.