MLN Newswire - www.mlntherawfeed.com-SAVANNAH, GA - Matthew Way, in just his second start as a Lakewood BlueClaw was sparkling in his start en route to a 4-0 shutout win on Monday night against the Savannah Sand Gnats.

The newest BlueClaws pitcher, in just his second start was a dominating force for the second time in a row. Through his seven innings, Way (1-1) allowed just three hits and struck out 11. He did not walk a batter and even ran a streak of 15 in a row retired.

The BlueClaws (22-21) shot out to a two-run lead in the top of the first inning as Korby Mintken was a one- out walk, and he was doubled home on the next swing of the bat by Travis d'Arnaud. After a line out, Jeremy Hamilton walked before Travis Mattair reached on an error by third baseman Jefry Marte, loading the bases. With the bases loaded Troy Hanzawa singled and made it 2-0 before the inning ended.
ADVERTISEMENT

The BlueClaws added to their lead in the fourth as Jesus Villegas doubled and was advanced to third as D'Arby Myers reached on an error by Marte, Villegas then scored on an RBI-groundout by the man celebrating his 19th birthday, Anthony Gose.

The BlueClaws tacked on one more in the ninth as D'Arby Myers was hit by a pitch, stole second and then scored on a single by Gose.

The Sand Gnats (20-22) were held off the scoreboard first by Way and then by Jordan Ellis, who pitched the eighth and the ninth, earning his first save of the season. The shutout was the seventh of the season for the BlueClaws.

The Sand Gnats starter Eric Beaulac (6-7) only lasted four innings as he allowed five hits and three runs, one earned. The bullpen combined to finish the final five innings.

After a 3-6 homestand, the BlueClaws started their eight game road trip with a win. They went 5-3 on their last road trip.

The BlueClaws and Sand Gnats will play game two of their four-game series on Tuesday at 7:05 pm. The BlueClaws will look to Heitor Correa (7-5) and the Sand Gnats will start Kyle Allen (7-6).

Are You an Insider Yet?
SZ Insider. A look ahead into the big player feature, the big story, tips, rumors, and special opportunities for collectibles and memorabilia only available for our insiders. Free monthly to your e-mailbox. Click the link to subscribe to this FREE newsletter!