Trenton takes 2-1 series lead over Reading
Right-hander Ethan Martin was locked in a 1-1 tie until the eighth. A single, a sacrifice and a fielding error by third baseman Cody Asche put two runners on. Martin retired the next hitter on a fly ball, but designated hitter David Adams singled to right field putting the Thunder on top. Right-hander Tyler Knigge relieved and yielded another run-scoring hit.
The night before, Trenton won, 4-1, on a three-run triple with two outs in the top of the ninth.
Martin carried a five-hitter into the eighth inning, didn't allow a walk and struck out a career-high 11. Three hits in the first inning staked Trenton to a 1-0 lead, but Martin retired the next 12 hitters before allowing a leadoff single in the sixth.
Asche's two-out double in the third inning tied the score. Center fielder Tyson Gillies drew a walk and scored on Asche's hit. Reading was held to five hits for the second straight game. Asche had three.
Reading threatened in the eighth when Asche doubled with one out and Darin Ruf was intentionally walked. Ruf was picked off first base, and Tug Hulett grounded out to end the threat.
Game 4 is scheduled for 7:05 ET on Saturday night, with left-hander Adam Morgan (4-1) facing fellow southpaw Nik Turley (1-0). Each started the season in the Florida State League before being promoted to Double-A. Turley (9-5) led the FSL with a 2.89 ERA; Morgan (4-9) finished fourth at 3.29.
Game 5, if necessary, is scheduled for 4:05 on Sunday afternoon in Trenton.