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Five-run first inning helps Florence Freedom avoid sweep during 7-5 win over Lake Erie Crushers


NKyTribune staff

A five-run outburst in the first inning on Sunday helped the Florence Freedom avoid a three-game sweep during a 7-5 win over the Lake Erie Crushers at UC Health Stadium.

Florence, which dropped the opening two games of the weekend series, collected five hits in the first inning — including a two-run homer by Keivan Berges — to build a 5-0 lead. Caleb Lopes added an RBI triple in the opening frame, while Skyler Ewing and Jordan Brower both had run-scoring singles.

With the Freedom holding a 3-0 lead, Berges deposited his 10th homer of the season over the left-field wall to make it a 5-0 game.

In the top of the second, Lake Erie plated four runs against Florence starter Christian DeLeon, who was removed in favor of Mike Castellani at the start of the third inning. DeLeon allowed four runs on four hits in two innings.

Castellani worked an effective three innings to pick up the win, surrendering only two hits and retiring nine of the 11 batters he faced. Johnathon Tripp notched his ninth save of the season by pitching a scoreless ninth inning.

Florence plays host to the River City Rascals on Tuesday at UC Health Stadium. First pitch is set for 6:35 p.m.


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