By Timothy J Sheridan: Mayor Pro Tem, Lake Elsinore; Director of Broadcasting, Lake Elsinore Storm
Special to Elsinore/Menifee 24/7
The anticipation for the Lake Elsinore Storm going into game 3 of the 6-game series at Banner Island Ballpark on Thursday was the third start for Storm ace pitcher Bryan Balzer, who had been exceptional in his first two starts of the season.
While Balzer did enough to win the game, it was the Storm batters who ensured the 11-7 victory over the Stockton Ports. A 7-run 2nd inning with the Storm sending 10 batters to the plate was the key to the win. The frame was topped off by right fielder Kale Fountain’s second home run of the season.
In the 5th inning, the Storm picked up 3 more runs, which included home runs from second baseman Justin DeCriscio, a 2-run shot, and third baseman Kerrington Cross.
Storm designated hitter Bradley Frye also had a good game with 3 hits and 2 runs driven in. In addition to Cross, center fielder Ryan Wideman, catcher Truitt Madonna, and starting second baseman Jose Verdugo each had 2 hits.
Balzer pitched five innings, striking out 5, giving up 6 hits and 4 earned runs. His record is now 2-0. Javier Chacón’s relief stint was also notable in that he recorded all 6 outs via the strikeout in the 2 innings he pitched.
The Storm is now 5-7 on the season.
Game 4 of the 6-game series is scheduled for 7:05 pm tonight at Banner Island Ballpark in Stockton.
The Storm returns to Diamond Stadium on Tuesday, April 21 at 6:05 p,m. to play the Visalia Rawhide. For tickets, visit tickets@stormbaseball.com or visit the Diamond Stadium Box Office prior to the game. The Box Office opens 3 hours before the game.
