The Myrtle Beach Pelicans drew an even split with the Frederick Keys Thursday, winning 4-0 at Harry Grove Stadium behind a masterful performance from starting pitcher Cody Buckel.
Buckel earned his third win of the season for the Pelicans (14-12), throwing a career best seven innings, allowing only three singles and striking out eight. He did not allow a hit between the leadoff man in the first, Bobby Stevens, and the third batter in the sixth, Aaron Baker. Both men singled to right.
The Pelicans offense backed up Buckel, putting the first three runners on base against Keys (9-15) starter Kyle Simon. The Birds got one run out of it when Vinny DiFazio grounded into a double play. Myrtle Beach added two more in the second on an RBI groundout by Josh Richmond and an RBI single by Jared Hoying. It was 3-0.
Hoying struck again in the fifth inning, blasting his first home run, a solo shot over the right field fence, for a 4-0 advantage. Hoying went 3-3 with a walk on the day.
The win marks the first day win of the season for Myrtle Beach, which had been 0-2 in day games. It’s also the fourth shutout for the Pelicans, who are now 4-1 in shutouts. Buckel’s effort marks his fourth quality start in six outings and the team’s 12th in 26 games.
Myrtle Beach continues its 10-game road trip at Lynchburg at 6:05 Friday. Roman Mendez deals against Gus Schlosser.
- Photo courtesy of MB Pelicans
