Fairbanks, AK - In a game filled with spectacular defensive plays and timely base hits, the Fairbanks Pirates beat Lavelle's Taphouse 8-7 on Thursday June 7th. 

The Pirates came out swinging in the first inning scoring three runs after a lead-off walk to Cody Stauble and a string of hits by Manny Muñoz, Makailon Braumberger, Joe Crowe and Steven Smith who hit a two RBI single to right field.

The Tappers quickly responded in the bottom of the first inning with one run, two in the second, and three in the third. Lavelle's Travis Clemens had an excellent night at the plate going 3-3 with a single, a double and a triple. Taphouse super star Billy Robideau also had a great night, hitting a triple and an RBI; but his defensive skills really shined when he made some of the most amazing diving plays at second base preventing potential rallies by the Pirates' offense.

The Pirates evened the score in the sixth inning when Steve Peek hit a screaming line drive over the Tappers' third baseman Telly Robideau, bringing two runs to the plate. With a tied score in the seventh, Alex Claypoole got on safely with a bang-bang play at first. Stephen Wainwright brought Claypoole all the way home with a hard hit double to the right-center gap, giving the Pirates a one run lead.

Pirates' right handed pitcher Joe Crowe was credited with the win after relieving starting pitcher Cody Stauble. Crowe struck out three and allowed two hits and one run in four innings of work.

UP NEXT

Lavelle's Taphouse vs Fairbanks Pirates - 1 pm Sunday June 10th at West Valley

Eielson Icemen vs HooDoo Brewers - 4 pm Sunday June 10th at West Valley

Written by: Manny Muñoz - Photo Credit: Mike Zuniga