Portage extended their losing streak to four on Friday, dropping their season record down to 3-10 in the process. They took a 7-2 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Conemaugh Valley Blue Jays. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Blue Jays this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 7-6 on Wednesday.
Portage got a good showing from Ethan Strittmatter, who pitched two innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. Strittmatter has been consistent: he hasn't given up more than two walks in five consecutive appearances.
At the plate, Portage saw six different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Jordan Klein, who went 1-for-3 with one RBI. Nathan Phillips also deserves some recognition as he hit his first double of the season.
As for Conemaugh Valley, their victory was their third straight at home, which pushed their record up to 8-5. The home wins came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 2.0 runs on average over those games.
On Conemaugh Valley's side, Kyron Fields was a major factor no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, striking out seven batters over 5.1 innings while giving up just one earned (and one unearned) run off four hits. Fields was also big at the plate, going 2-for-3 with one triple, one stolen base, and one run. Those two hits gave him a new career-high.
In other batting news, Jeremy Dietz was incredible, going 2-for-4 with one home run, two runs, and two RBI. Conemaugh Valley is undefeated when Dietz posts two or more runs, but 4-5 otherwise. Gavin Buchan was another key player, going 2-for-3 with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Portage will take on Southern Huntingdon County in a tournament on Saturday. The Rockets have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 13.36 runs per game on average), something the Mustangs will no doubt try to take advantage of. As for Conemaugh Valley, they will face off against Moshannon Valley at 4:30 p.m. on Monday. The Blue Jays' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Black Knights/Damsels have averaged an impressive 6.2 runs per game this season.
