NorthPaws win streak ends at five after 8-5 loss to Sweets

Kamloops – The Kamloops NorthPaws couldn’t secure the homestand sweep, losing to the Walla Walla Sweets in the series finale. The Sweets scored six runs in the first four innings and never let go of the lead. Kamloops came within two runs, but a two-run top of the eighth was too much to overcome.

NorthPaws starter Jack Thompson lasted three innings, giving up four earned runs on five hits. In the fourth, Just Van Den Ouwleen struggled with command as the Sweets added two more runs.

The Paws bats took a while to get going, thanks to a great outing from Sweets starter Curtis Ellis. Through four innings, the NorthPaws had just four hits. In the fifth, the tide started to shift. On the mound, the bullpen took over with a great outing from Christian Castilla, Dylan Dekker and Reece Chimenti. The Sweets offence was neutralized for the time being, allowing the Paws to get back in the ballgame.

In the fifth, Anthony Setticasi was on base with two outs. The lineup turned back over to the top for Kade Crawford. The centerfielder doubled, driving in the first for the Paws. Evan Dugdale was up next and hit an opposite-field single, scoring Crawford.

In the sixth, Ian Huang doubled with two outs. Logan Booth was next up and proceeded to hit his first home run of the season, cutting the deficit to two.

In the seventh, Kamloops went down scoreless, giving the Sweets a chance to add some insurance. With two outs in the top of the eighth, the Sweets loaded the bases with a pair of singles and a walk. A ground ball then forced an error, bringing home two runs. A collective groan echoed amongst the crowd.

The NorthPaws responded with a run in the bottom of the eighth, but that was all. The Sweets shut the door, taking the series finale.

Despite the loss, the team finished their six-game home stand 5-1 and sits just one game below .500. The NorthPaws have won three of their last four series, turning the page on some unfortunate luck to begin the season.

The NorthPaws will now enjoy a four-day break before heading to Bellingham on Friday for a three-game series with the Bells. The team will return home on Wednesday, June 24th, against the Kelowna Falcons.