The Trops return home for a four-game series against the Portland Lumberjacks then head right back out for a short road trip. Hawaii leads the all-time series against Portland 150-129.
The Tropics offense finally produces some runs, but Portland’s offense also fights back, and the two teams end with a series split. Hawaii DH Felipe Hernandez had a big day in the opener going 3 for 4 with two bombs (18) and drove in four runs in a losing cause but still getting Player of the Game. He was 7 for 16 in the series with seven ribbies. Vincente Mendez had a nice series going 6 for 14 with two doubles (24) and a triple (2) while scoring two runs and driving in three.
The pitching was hit or miss with starters and relievers with John Moore and Troy ‘Teddy Bear’ Reynolds getting hammered in Game 1 while Elvin Hilliard and Bill Phillips shutting out the ‘Jacks in the series finale. Hilliard took Player of the Game honors with 6.1 scoreless innings allowing just a hit, walking two and fanning seven.
Hilliard said, “I hate having a roller coaster season, but this one was one of the nice high points.”
“He has a good fastball and an ok curve but gets into trouble with his splitter and cutter. He gets too cute against the patient teams and it costs him.”, said Hawaii Pitching Coach Anibal Aguirre.
GM Jim Walker was heard mumbling, “Maybe something is in the water?”
A single fire extinguisher was delivered.
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