Spokane Indians strike out 19 times in loss to Vancouver

VANCOUVER, B.C. – Say one thing about Spokane Indians batters on Saturday: They were consistent.

Consistently striking out, that is.

One day after a 9-1 season-opening win, the Indians struck out 19 times during a 3-1 Northwest League loss to the Vancouver Canadians at Nat Bailey Stadium.

Every batter in Spokane’s lineup struck out at least twice except Kenen Irizarry, who struck out on three pitches to end the game.

Canadians starter Grant Townsend struck out six in 2 2/3 innings. Winner Grayson Huffman fanned four in 1 2/3 innings and Gage Burland (Gonzaga University/East Valley High) followed with five strikeouts in 2 1/3 innings.

Vancouver held Spokane to one hit over the first six innings.

The Canadians took a 2-0 lead in the second inning on a fielder’s choice and passed ball. Obie Ricumstrict scored the Indians’ lone run on a balk in the third. Ricumstrict led off with a walk and moved up on a walk and groundout.

Vancouver added insurance in the eighth when Yorman Rodriguez led off with a double and scored on Brett Wright’s two-out double.

Indians starter Wyatt Sparks took the loss, allowing five hits and two earned run in 3 1/3 innings.

After Sunday’s series-ending game, the Indians will travel to Salem-Keizer for four games. Spokane’s home opener is Friday against Boise.