Modesto Nuts end three-game slide with win over Stockton

Ryan Castellani pitched six solid innings and was backed by a five-run fourth inning as the Modesto Nuts defeated the Stockton Ports 8-1 in the opener of a three-game series Monday at John Thurman Field.

Castellani, who has won his last three starts after dipping to 1-6 on June 5, allowed just three hits and one earned run. He struck out six and walked two.

Troy Neiman and Tyler Matzek were solid in relief, combining for three hitless innings as Modesto ended a three-game losing streak.

The Nuts gave Castellani all the support he needed in the fourth. After being held to one run and 12 hits during its skid, Modesto broke loose with 15 hits.

In the fourth, the Nuts recorded six hits and capitalized on two errors and a passed ball to take a 5-1 lead. Every Modesto batter finished with at least one hit, with second baseman Forrest Wall leading the parade, going 3 for 4. Omar Carrizales (2 for 5), Shane Hoelscher (2 for 5), Max White (2 for 4, home run) and Luis Jean (2 for 4) also delivered.

Oakland A’s left-hander Rich Hill made a rehabilitation start with the Ports, striking out six and allowing one run in three innings. Reliever Heath Fillmyer surrendered seven runs, five earned, and 11 hits in five innings.

The Nuts conclude their series with Stockton on Wednesday at 7:05 p.m., then welcome Bakersfield for four games.

This story was originally published June 28, 2016 at 4:47 PM with the headline "Modesto Nuts end three-game slide with win over Stockton."