Otters Beat Washington, Secure Division Title for Southern Illinois

After dropping both games of a double-header to open the final series of the regular season against Washington, the Otters rally late Thursday to beat the Wild Things and lock in the division title for the Southern Illinois Miners.

Evansville got off to a strong start in Thursday's contest, putting three runs on the board beginning with a lead off solo homer from outfielder J.R. Higley, followed by a two-run shot off the bat of Frontier League MVP, third baseman, Shane Houck that padded his league-leading number of home runs this season at 23.

A double steal in the fifth by Higley in the top of the fifth put the Otters up 4-0, before Washington tied it up in the bottom of the the inning after three errors and balk by Evansville.

Outfielder Chris Elder put the Otters back on top with a home run in the seventh. A two run triple by Phillip Wilson, and another by Kolin Conner followed in the eighth to put the game away for Evansville.

Washington's loss gave Southern Illinois the division title and set up a Wild Card game between the Otters and the Wild Things on Saturday. Tonight's final game of the regular series will determine who will be the home team for that game. If the Otters win, it will take place at Bosse Field. If not, Washington will host Saturday's game.

First pitch for tonight's regular season finale is scheduled for 7:05 PM CDT.