Spokane Indians ninth-inning rally not enough in 9-7 loss to Tri-City

From staff reports

The Spokane Indians rallied to get within one swing in the ninth inning Friday at Avista Stadium, but failed to complete the comeback against the Tri-City Dust Devils, losing 9-7 in the fourth of a six-game High-A Northwest League series.

After Tri-City scored four in the top of the ninth to take a 9-4 lead, Indians designated hitter Cole Messina doubled home Charlie Condon to start the home team rally. A balk allowed Braylen Wimmer to score and Messina moved to third. Skyler Messinger’s two-out RBI double drew Spokane (22-21) within two runs.

Catcher Jesus Ordonez grounded out to third base to end the game.

Center fielder Alexander Ramirez and Capri Ortiz homered for the visiting Dust Devils (21-21). Rio Foster went 4 for 5 with a triple and an RBI.

Messinger finished 3 for 5 with two doubles, a run and an RBI. Jared Thomas added two hits, a run and a stolen base. 

Starting pitcher Jordy Vargas took the loss (0-3). The 21-year-old righty allowed three runs on four hits and two walks with six strikeouts over three innings. Reliever Hunter Mann gave up three runs – one earned – on three hits and a walk in the ninth inning.