Kingsport rallies for win, Johnson City stumbles at home

(WJHL) – The Axmen took a significant step to securing the Appalachian League West Division’s final playoff spot with a late rally on Monday night.

Playing for a night as the Kingsport Stallions, the squad charged back to score two runs in the bottom of the ninth to walk-off against Bluefield, 4-3.

Mason Swinney drew a bases-loaded walk to tie the contest, 3-3, while All-Star Devan Zirwas delivered the clutch base knock – an RBI single to score Josh Campos and secure the win.

The State Liners and Doughboys combined for five homers, as Bristol dealt a serious blow to Johnson City’s playoff hopes with a 12-6 victory.

Mikah Conner got the party started for Bristol in the second inning with a three-run blast. But, Colby Backus answered back for the home squad in the bottom half, making it a 3-1 ballgame.

An RBI groundout, wild pitch and Chase Bloomer homer would put the Doughboys in front, 5-3, before the inning was through.

However, a pair of throwing errors on a fielder’s choice in the fourth frame allowed Bristol to score three, and take a 6-5 lead. It is a lead they would not relinquish.

Jett Johnston went 3-for-4 with four RBI and a pair of home runs in the Bristol victory.

The Axmen now hold a 1.5 game lead over the Doughboys for the second and final playoff spot in the West with two games to play.

OTHER SCORES:

Flyboys 8, River Riders 7

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