Wenatchee clinches series with extra-inning win over Bellingham

BELLINGHAM — The Wenatchee AppleSox secured a series victory Wednesday night, rallying late before defeating the Bellingham Bells 5-4 in 10 innings at Joe Martin Field.

For the second consecutive game, Wenatchee was outhit by Bellingham but capitalized on defensive miscues by the Bells, who committed four errors.

Bellingham took a 2-0 lead in the fifth inning on a fielder's choice by Tristan Schaefer and an RBI single from Tyler Peshke.

The AppleSox answered in the sixth. Nikko Paoletto reached on an error, advanced to third on a passed ball and a stolen base, then scored on another passed ball to cut the deficit to 2-1.

Trailing by a run entering the ninth inning, Wenatchee scored three times to take a 4-2 lead. The rally was aided by a Bellingham error and RBI singles from Kainoa Santiago and Paoletto.

The Bells responded in the bottom of the ninth, using an RBI double and an RBI single to tie the game and force extra innings.

Wenatchee regained the lead in the 10th. Jonah Shields laid down a bunt that resulted in a throwing error by pitcher Thrasher Steed, allowing the go-ahead run to score.

The AppleSox then retired Bellingham in the bottom of the inning, ending the game with an inning-ending double play to secure the 5-4 victory and the series win.

Starting pitcher Felix Schlede delivered four scoreless innings for Wenatchee, allowing one walk and striking out five. Relievers Dylan Dyer, Tate Swanson and Clint Beck combined to pitch four innings, allowing four runs while recording five strikeouts and two walks.

Jonathan Christner earned the win after pitching the final two innings without allowing a run. He struck out four.

Paoletto led the AppleSox offensively, finishing 2 for 3 with an RBI and two walks. He was named the team's player of the game.

Wenatchee concludes the three-game series against Bellingham on Thursday. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. at Joe Martin Field.