Generals, Painchaud Top Rams 9-8

Luke Painchaud earned his first career ITL victory pitching 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief. Neither starting pitcher figured in the decision as this game came down to the wire. Jensen lasted 5 2/3 innings for the Generals while Warden pitched 5 1/3 for the Rams both leaving in an 8-8 tie. Painchaud was able to out duel White in the remaining inning and change to seal a one run victory for the Generals.

The Rams jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead after one inning of play. Moore and Knight each had RBI's but the big blow came on a Liguori 2-out 2-RBI double. The Generals started chipping away and were able to tie the score in the top of the fourth. Vitale's RBI double in the third broke the ice, which was followed by a Maloney RBI and a Jones RBI single in the fourth. The Rams quickly regained the lead with one in the bottom of the fourth on a Brink RBI. After four, 5-4 Rams.

The Generals tied the score again with one in the top of the fifth. Mark Potter plated Andre Painchaud on a fielder's choice. The visitors stretched the lead to three in the top of the sixth. Jones had an RBI double, followed by an RBI single from Andre Painchaud. The lead didn't last long as the Rams fought back once again to tie the score with three of their own in the bottom half of the sixth. With 2 down Johnson delivered a big 2-RBI single followed by a Moore RBI double. Luke Painchaud then entered the game to record the final out with the go ahead run in scoring position.

The Generals were able to manufacture a run in the seventh scoring Maidment on a wild pitch. Luke Painchaud was able to help himself out in the bottom half by starting a nifty 1-4-3 double play and getting the final batter with a strike out in securing his first win. 9-8 was the final in this close back and forth battle. The Rams travel to Topsfield tomorrow night while the Generals host the Rockport Townies this Wednesday at Patton Park. Both games start at 5:45pm.