Errors doom Loons in loss

The last time Justin Miller took the mound for the Great Lakes Loons, his defense made almost every play behind him during his bid for a no-hitter.

Wednesday night, that was not the case.

The Loons tied a season high by committing four errors in a 4-2 loss to the Dayton Dragons at Dow Diamond.

Though it was hard to match his previous start, Miller (4-9) hurled five innings allowing four runs (three earned) in picking up his ninth loss of the season. To his credit, the defense was shaky behind him, as they committed a quartet of errors, three of which came from Miller’s battery mate, Kenley Jansen.

The Loons’ defensive woes were highlighted by a fourth-inning, double-error. With Mike McKennon at first base, Jansen tried to pick off the Dragons’ first baseman after a pitch from Miller. His throw was low and got away from Jaime Ortiz to allow McKennon to advance to second. Then right fielder Alfredo Silverio’s throw got away from shortstop Brandon Taylor and ended up in the Dragons bullpen to allow McKennon to score on the play.

McKennon led the Dragons with three hits, while Andrew Lambo notched a pair of singles to lead the way for the Loons.

Curtis Partch picked up the victory to improve to 4-9 after throwing five innings of one run baseball. Jeff Jeffords pitched four quality innings in relief to notch his fourth save of the season.

The Loons and Dragons play again Thursday night at Dow Diamond. Game time is 7:05 p.m.

Photos by Cory Butzin