Published: July 04, 2009 12:57 am      

LumberKings score early, hang on

Herald Staff Report

APPLETON, Wis. — Jacob Shaffer hit a three-run double in the first inning and Steve Moss added a three-run home run in the second, helping Clinton build a 9-0 lead through an inning and a half, and then the LumberKings held on to beat Wisconsin 9-7 on Friday in Midwest League baseball.

Alfredo Venegas (3-3) allowed 10 hits in five innings on the mound for the LumberKings but got the win. Blake Nation, Cheyne Hann and Ruben Flores combined to hold the Timber Rattlers to two hits and one run over the final four innings.

Daniel Carroll (3-for-4) got the LumberKings rolling quickly. He reached on a bunt single to open the game and then stole second base. Luis Nunez walked, and Scott Savastano singled to load the bases. After Denny Almonte struck out, Shaffer grounded a double into right field to clear the bases.

The LumberKings added five more runs in the second inning. Carroll started the big inning again, this time with a one-out triple to right field, and he scored when right fielder Peter Fatse made a throwing error on the play.

Nunez and Savastano followed with singles. Almonte grounded into a forceout that scored Nunez, Shaffer walked and Moss hit his fourth homer of the year giving Clinton a 9-0 lead.

The LumberKings return home tonight to start a four-game homestand against Kane County. The 6 p.m. game will be followed by fireworks.