Visalia Rawhide News: August 3 - August 9, 2024

The Visalia Rawhide have had a mixed bag of results over the past week, showcasing both the highs and lows of their performance. Here’s a detailed look at their recent games and key highlights:

Series Against Modesto Nuts

The Rawhide faced off against the Modesto Nuts in a series that concluded on August 11. In the final game, the Nuts salvaged the series with a 7-3 win. The Nuts' offensive attack was led by DH Tai Peete, who hit a solo home run on his birthday, and CF Curtis Washington, who contributed with a two-run shot, his first of the season. C Junior Gonzalez also hit his first home run of the season, a solo shot in the third inning.

Visalia’s attempts to keep pace were thwarted by a combination of solid pitching and timely defensive plays from the Nuts. RHP Denny Larrondo took the loss for Visalia after allowing seven runs. The Nuts' pitching staff, led by RHP Tyler Gough, who threw four scoreless innings, played a pivotal role in maintaining their lead. The Rawhide struggled to overcome the deficit built by the Nuts, with key defensive plays and strategic fielding from the Nuts contributing to their victory.

Series Against Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

In another series, the Rawhide faced the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. The Quakes scored eight runs in the fourth inning, defeating Visalia 8-3. Casey Anderson started the game with six strikeouts in the first three innings but finished the night with 3.0 innings, six strikeouts, and eight earned runs. Teofilo Mendez and Rio Britton were the only relief pitchers for Visalia in this game.

Series Against Inland Empire 66ers

The Rawhide had a more successful outing against the Inland Empire 66ers. They captured their second straight series win, with Roman Angelo starting off with an efficient inning, leaving the 66ers scoreless. The Rawhide opened the game with a single from Anderson Rojas, who advanced to second and third on a wild pitch. Ruben Santana also contributed to the team's victory.

Series Against Lake Elsinore Storm

In a series against the Lake Elsinore Storm, the Rawhide dropped two straight games. Despite outhitting Lake Elsinore eight hits to four, the Rawhide committed four errors in nine innings, leading to a 4-3 loss. Kenny Castillo committed two errors alongside Jansel Luis. The Rawhide used a series low three pitchers, including starting pitcher Kenny Castillo, who led the team offensively going 2-for-4.

However, the Rawhide snapped their four-game losing streak by defeating the Storm 10-5. Visalia struck first, scoring four runs in the second inning and recording eight of their ten runs in the first three innings. Caden Grice made a strong appearance, striking out eight across 3 2/3 innings.

Notable Performances

• Druw Jones: Just over 13 months removed from being drafted second overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2022, Druw Jones hit his first professional home run. This milestone was achieved in style, with Jones getting an over-the-shoulder catch to win the MiLB Best Defensive Play of the Year Award.



• Jansel Luis: Luis hit his first home run of the season on May 1, 2024.



• Caden Grice: Grice struck out eight across 3 2/3 innings on April 25, 2024.



• Jhosmer Alvarez: Alvarez recorded five strikeouts in an inning on April 24, 2024.

Conclusion

The Visalia Rawhide have shown resilience and determination in their recent games, despite facing some tough losses. Their ability to come from behind and secure victories, coupled with notable performances from players like Druw Jones and Caden Grice, highlights the team's potential and growth. As the season progresses, the Rawhide will look to build on these strengths and improve their overall performance.