The Blue Claws are SAL Champs

The Lakewood Blue Claws became champions of the South Atlantic League by defeating the Greenville Drive 5-1 in game four of the best of five series. Lakewood starting pitcher Korey Noles pitched seven innings and gave up only one run. Offensive contributions came from center fielder Anthony Gose who went 2 for 5 with an RBI and 2 runs scored. Second baseman Harold Garcia went 1 for 2 and also had an RBI. This marked the fifth playoff game in which he has had at least one RBI. Shortstop Troy Hanzawa went 2 for 3 and had an RBI and a run scored.

This is the second time that the Lakewood Blue Claws have won the league championship. They also accomplished that feat in 2006. This minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies is an indicator that the parent club has some future prospects who could be playing soon at the big league level.