Jackson, Tenn. - For the second consecutive day, the Lookouts scratched out a one run victory over the Jackson Generals. On Wednesday afternoon, the North Division leaders dropped a 4-3 decision to Chattanooga (11-9) The Generals were unable to power past a second-inning grand slam off the bat of Lookouts outfielder Edgar Corcino.
The Generals scattered 13 hits against starter Randy LeBlanc (3-1, 1.99 ERA), but they couldn't quite put the puzzle together over the final 2 1/3 innings against Omar Bencomo who registered his second save of the year.
LaBlanc gave up a first inning home run then shut the door on the Generals for his third win of the season.
The loss gives Jackson (15-4) consecutive losses for the first time in 2018, though they still possess the best record in the Southern League.
Right-hander Sam Lewis (2-2, 4.05 ERA) loaded the bases in the top of the second by issuing a lead-off walk and a pair of singles, and two hitters later, Corcino cracked his first home run of the season, clearing the bases and boosting Chattanooga in front, 4-2.
Lewis retired six of the next seven hitters he faced, and Jason Morozowski spared him a few runs with a fantastic diving catch in right-center field that robbed Sean Miller of extra bases (and RBI) in the fourth. Lewis struck out only one and walked two, not allowing any runs to score in the first, third, fourth, or fifth innings, and he benefited from two double-plays. Joel Payamps, Kirby Bellow, and Yoan Lopez each offered scoreless appearances in relief.
On a day where the offensive efforts were foiled at almost every turn, the Generals got a season-best-tying three-hit effort from Matt Jones, featured an RBI single in the third. Kevin Medrano blasted his second home run of the year over the right field fence in the first inning with a man aboard, putting the Generals on top 2-0 and extending his hitting streak to nine games. Medrano started at first base for the first time since 2013, playing all nine innings without error. Galli Cribbs also notched a pair of hits.
Six different players picked up hits for the Lookouts, but no one was able to muster a multi-hit performance. Zander Wiel and his .367 average continue to hold strong as he added a base knock as well as a run scored in the effort.
Box
The Lookouts return home Thursday evening carrying a two-game wins streak. Chattanooga will meet the Tennessee Smokies in the first of their five game series at AT&T Field. Game time is 7:15 p.m. Lewis Thorpe get the start for Chattanooga.