Indians win pitchers’ duel
Nicholas’ RBI double beats Dust Devils
PASCO – Brett Nicholas’ double in the sixth inning drove in Rougned Odor with the game’s only run and three Spokane pitchers held Tri-City to four hits as the Indians opened a three-game Northwest League series with a 1-0 win over the Dust Devils on Sunday night.
The win, combined with Boise’s loss to Yakima, helped Spokane’s chase for a playoff spot. Tri-City, which won the East Division’s first-half title, holds a four-game lead in the second half. If the Dust Devils win the second half, the team with the next-best overall record will meet Tri-City in the playoffs. The Indians now lead the Hawks by two games in the overall standings.
Spokane starter Christopher Hanna (3-1) earned the win, allowing two hits over 6 2/3 innings. He struck out eight and walked two. Juan Grullon struck out the only batter he faced. Matthew West earned his seventh save, allowing two hits over the final two innings.
The series continues tonight at 7:15.