Threshers Romp Flying Tigers 14-5

The Clearwater Threshers scored three times in three different innings defeating the Lakeland Flying Tigers 14-5 Saturday (Aug. 27).

Every member of the starting lineup chipped in at least one hit.

Leftfielder Cyle Hankerd had his biggest day as a Thresher. The Southern California alum improved his batting average to .274 in 22 games with his 4-5 night at the plate.

After singling in the first and third innings, the 26 year old belted back-to-back homers in the sixth and eighth innings, giving him five in his brief Florida State League career.

First baseman Darin Ruf had a solid first half of the FSL season but his second half has been sensational.

Saturday was no exception, as the 25 year old slammed his league leading 40 and 41st doubles while scoring four runs.

Rightfielder Brandon Tripp added four hits, including his fifth homerun, as the middle of the order collected 11 of the 23 hits.

Starting pitcher David Buchanan picked up the win allowing just two earned runs in six innings. The native of Atlanta has compiled a record of 14-6 between Lakewood (Low A) and Clearwater in 2011.

On Deck: The same two teams meet at 1 p.m. Sunday (Aug. 28) at .

The FSL strike-out leader Trevor May is the probable starter for the Threshers.

Need to Know: Clearwater has now won three in a row and seven of their last nine trailing Dunedin by two and half games for first place in the North Division.