Spann Slam Saves Sea Dogs

Portland won game one of the series vs. Trenton 5-3, thanks to a walk off grand slam by Chad Spann. Spann, who joined the team with a couple of weeks remaining in the season and batted just .209 in 9 games, knocked the first offering from Justin Pope off the Citgo sign over the left field wall. Pope, who had just walked Jeremy West and Alberto Concepcion to load the bases, was obviously looking to throw a strike in that situation.

Despite not having a lot of success for the Sea Dogs, Spann has some pop in his bat, evidenced by the 13 homers and 23 doubles that he hit for Wilmington this season. Spann's homer saved Jon Lester from a tough luck loss. Lester had another vintage performance - 7 innings, four hits, one walk, two runs and nine strikeouts. Jeffrey Karstens continued to dominate the Sea Dogs, allowing just one run in seven innings, but Pope was unable to hold on for the win.

The game two pitching matchup features Anibal Sanchez vs. Matt DeSalvo.