For the City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (4-6) put together a strong showing in both phases of the game, on their way to a 7-0 shutout win over the Lakeshore Chinooks (2-8) at home on June 6.

The offense flexed its muscles early with two runs in the first inning, including an RBI double by Peter Matt. The Rafters added two runs in the fourth inning on RBIs by Johnny Gonzales and Rich Ciufo.

One inning later, a Jake Dunham double brought in a run and Gonzales added another RBI as the Rafters extended their lead to 6-0 in the fifth. Gonzales notched his third RBI when hit a sacrifice fly to center in the seventh to put Wisconsin Rapids on top 7-0.

Rapids got a strong tandem performance on the mound from starter Neil Abbatiello, who got the win with nine strikeouts, and reliever Nate Barnes, who pitched the final four innings. Lakeshore’s starter Austin Edwards is credited with the loss.

The Rafters and Chinooks continue their season series Friday night as Wisconsin Rapids goes on the road for two games at Lakeshore. The Rafters return home Sunday for a 4:05 p.m. game against the Madison Mallards.