Hops sweep doubleheader in Everett, take series lead

A day removed from an embarrassing loss to the AquaSox in the first game of the two teams’ seven game set, Hillsboro redeemed itself, sweeping the home Sox as part of a twin bill on Wednesday, June 19, at Memorial Stadium in Everett.

The Hops won the first game 7-3 thanks in large part to a five-run fifth inning, anchored by home runs from Gavin Logan and Neyfy Castillo.

Jack Hurley and Gavin Conticello also contributed, combining to go 4-for-8 with four RBI and two runs-scored.

Avery Short was solid on the mound, allowing three earned runs on just five hits, while striking out 11 and walking two in seven innings of work.

Game 2, which was a makeup from May 5, was about a trio of Hillsboro pitchers. Alec Baker got the start and threw three innings, while relievers Landon Sims and Eli Saul pitched two apiece to close the game.

Combined, the three allowed one earned run on seven hits, while striking out eight and walking two.

The Hops (34-30) managed just five hits, but made the most of them with runs in the second, fourth, fifth and seventh innings.