Fredericksburg Nationals overcome a three-run deficit to defeat the Lynchburg Hillcats 6-5

Lynchburg, VA – The Fredericksburg Nationals overcame a three-run deficit to defeat the Lynchburg Hillcats 6-5 and split the six-game series Sunday afternoon. With the victory, the Fredericksburg Nationals improved their record to 23-13, while the Hillcats fell to 16-20.

Lynchburg jumped to an early 2-0 lead, but the Fredericksburg Nationals chipped away at the advantage. Jose Colmenares ignited the offense with an RBI groundout in the fourth inning. Although the Hillcats extended their lead to 4-1, the Fredericksburg Nationals mounted a thrilling comeback in the top of the seventh.

A series of hits and a crucial wild pitch brought the Fredericksburg Nationals within striking distance. Jorgelys Mota delivered a clutch two-RBI single to give Fredericksburg their first lead of the game. Mota scored on a Yohandy Morales single, extending the advantage to 6-4.

The Hillcats threatened in the bottom of the inning, loading the bases with one out. However, Anthony Arguelles entered the game and shut down the Hillcats, earning his fifth season save. Samuel Vasquez was credited with the win, while Jack Jasiak took the loss.

Getting the win for the Fredericksburg Nationals was RHP Samuel Vasquez, as he pitched a shutout inning, gave up no runs, and struck out one. Vasquez now has a 5-2 record. RHP Travis Sthele got the start for the Fredericksburg Nationals and pitched 5.0 innings, giving up four runs on eight hits and striking out three. Sthele faced 24 batters and threw 86 pitches, with 54 strikes.

The Fredericksburg Nationals will return to Fredericksburg for a series against the Carolina Mud Cats starting tomorrow night at 7:05 p.m.