Drifters shut down Knights 3-1, claim finale to win debut series

Thursday, June 30, Springfield, Ore.  – Corvallis fell 3-1 to Springfield in the rubber game of the first West Coast League series between the teams.

The Knights (13-6 all, 13-5 WCL) were stymied for the second time in three nights at the Hamlin Sports Complex, as they also lost 3-1 on June 28 in the series opener. Corvallis hammered Springfield 14-2 at Goss Stadium on June 29 in Game 2 but was unable to duplicate those offensive fireworks on Thursday.

First baseman Kiki Romero (Arizona in 2023) had the Knights lone RBI, on a fielder’s choice in the seventh inning. He also drove in the only run in the June 28 loss with a homer, and he homered again on June 29.

Right-hander Kaden Segel (LBCC) was the hard-luck loser, as he allowed just one earned run and four hits in five innings. Reliever Ethan Ross (San Jose State, pictured above) turned in three perfect innings of relief to keep the Knights within striking distance; he struck out three.

Center fielder Jonah Advincula (Redlands) was the lone Knight with more than one hit, as he singled twice and scored the team’s only run. Corvallis left nine runners on base.

The Knights return to Goss Stadium this weekend to face the Port Angeles Lefties. Friday’s and Saturday’s games begin at 6:35 p.m.; Sunday’s finale is the annual Oregon State Credit Union Fireworks Night contest, which begins at 7:15 p.m.

Former NFL player Golden Tate will not accompany the Lefties to Corvallis. He has broadcasting responsibilities and won’t rejoin the team until July 8.

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