Hickory Crawdads Game Recap: Loomis’ Strikeout Clinches Thrilling 6-5 Win

The Hickory Crawdads improved to 2-0 with a dramatic 6-5 victory over the Asheville Tourists at L.P. Frans Stadium, thanks to a game-ending strikeout by Eric Loomis in a high-stakes 9th inning. Here’s the Hickory Crawdads game recap, highlighting the tense finish, standout performances, and what’s next in the series.

Clutch Finish

With the Crawdads holding a 6-5 lead in the 9th, the Asheville Tourists had two runners in scoring position with two outs, threatening to tie or take the lead. Reliever Eric Loomis (S, 1) rose to the occasion, pitching 2 innings, allowing 2 hits, 1 walk, and recording 2 strikeouts. He sealed the win with a strike-three swinging call to end the nail-biting contest.

Pitching Performances

Hickory starter, 21-year-old LHP Mason Molina, who was acquired in the Grant Anderson trade, delivered a strong outing. He pitched 4 innings, allowing 2 hits, 2 runs, 1 walk, and striking out 8, while giving up 1 home run. The biggest story on the mound was 21-year-old Brock Porter (W, 1-0), who pitched 1 inning, striking out 3 batters on 19 pitches, 11 of them strikes.

Offensive Highlights

The Crawdads’ offense was powered by 19-year-old outfielder Maxton Martin, who went 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored, 4 RBIs (bringing his season total to 6), and his first home run of the season. Rafe Perich also contributed, going 3-for-5 with a home run—his first of the year—and 2 RBIs (3 on the season).

Next Game

Game 3 of this short 3-game series against the Asheville Tourists is scheduled for today at 12:30 PM.

Stay tuned to The Prospect Times for more Hickory Crawdads game recaps as the season unfolds!