SYRACUSE, N.Y. – In a game with two teams meeting on a truly neutral site, the game carried a much greater intensity. Packed with playoff implications for the Syracuse Spartans, the team needed to put together one of their best games of the season in order to survive. After a grueling and intense affair between the Syracuse Spartans outlasted the Syracuse Salt Cats in order to secure a crucial 6-4 victory on the road. The Spartans left no stone unturned, as the entire team contributed to the hard-fought win.

The Spartans wasted no time taking control of the game, jumping ahead in the top of the third inning. Brendan Flynn’s single set the stage, and he eventually scored on Robert Johnston’s sacrifice fly, giving the Spartans an early 1-0 lead.

The offense continued to shine in the 5th inning, as Perry Chetney reached base on a Salt Cat error and then came home on Zach Garcia’s double, further extending their advantage. In the next inning, the Spartans seized another opportunity, with Patrick May’s single and a Salt Cat error putting both May and Tanner De Grazia in scoring position. Joe Wike capitalized on the situation, delivering a clutch 2-RBI single to give the Spartans a commanding 4-0 lead.

The Salt Cats put up a fight, notching two runs in the bottom of the 8th and 9th innings, taking advantage of four walks, three hit-by-pitches, and two doubles. However, the Spartans held firm and managed to preserve their lead.

The preservation of the lead was highlighted by the play of the game in the top of the 9th inning when Perry Chetney made a daring move. Chetney walked, then when the moment presented itself, stole home plate, adding an unforgettable play to the Spartans’ impressive performance.

In an overall triumphant performance from the Spartans, it was made possible by player of the game and starting pitcher, Gavin Miller. His six innings of shutout pitching was certainly a catalyst to an essential victory. Throughout the six innings, he only allowed two hits, struck out two, and earned the victory. A purely dominant performance!

Looking ahead, the Syracuse Spartans will continue to push for the playoffs in a critical home game tomorrow against the Sherrill Silversmiths at Onondaga Community College. First pitch is scheduled for 7 pm, and fans can also catch the live broadcast on the Syracuse Spartans’ website, https://syracusespartans.com/live/. The Spartans need the community now more than ever as they hope to make a last-second push toward late-season success! Don’t miss out!