When Portland signed long-time Blazers pitcher
Cheslav Evgrafov to a one-year deal this off-season, many didn't know what to expect. Most did expect a one year rental arm that would likely be serviceable, but not a top of the rotation guy. Perhaps Portland could get lucky and get the guy that had won 38 games over the last 3 years that included 3 straight seasons with double digit win totals. If the first three games of his season are any indication, Portland is getting that version of Evgrafov.
On Tuesday night, the Portland fans at the Trail in Multnomah got to see Evgrafov for the first team in a home uniform this season. And the 30 year old righty did not disappoint. Cheslav threw 8 innings against Bikini, allowing just 1 run on 6 hits and 3 walks while striking out 4 to lead the Lumberjacks to a 4-1 victory against the division foe. The win bumped his record to a perfect 3-0 on the young season in 3 starts. It was also his second consecutive start going 8 innings in a Portland victory.
"He's off to a great start" said Portland manager Mons Raider. "He's hitting his spots, mixing in his pitches, and getting easy outs for the defense. You couldn't ask for much more from a starter at this point, or any point really, of the season."
Raider actually gave Cheslav the chance to record a complete game Tuesday night. However, after walking the leadoff man in the 9th inning, Raider went to the pen. That walk resulted in Bikini's lone run that scored on a triple with 2 outs in the inning. Cheslav threw just 94 pitches.
"I don't lose sleep over a loss," said Evgrafov after the game. "But I have better dreams after a win" (source OOTP News)
