Modesto Nuts open six-game homestand Tuesday against Stockton

When the Modesto Nuts left for Bakersfield last week, they led the California League’s second-half North Division standings by a game over San Jose and Visalia. Even better, they led the race for the wild card (combination of first- and second-half records) by four games over San Jose and five over Stockton.

But following a four-game sweep at the hands of last-place Bakersfield, the Nuts’ lead in the second-half standings has evaporated, leaving them in a tie with San Jose and Visalia for first, and their wild-card lead has been trimmed by three games. Stockton is now just two games behind. San Jose is now three back.

The Ports will visit John Thurman Field for an important three-game series starting Tuesday. After Stockton leaves town, the Nuts get another crack at the Blaze, which visits for three games. The Nuts then travel to Visalia for three games and return home to face the Ports again in a four-game series.

The next 13 days could decide the Nuts’ playoff destiny.

The four losses to Bakersfield at Sam Lynn Ballpark came as a surprise not only because the Blaze was nine games under .500 in the second half, but because Modesto was 14-3 on the road since the break. The team has struggled at home in the second half, posting an uneven 12-10 record.

One bright spot for the Nuts during the four-game debacle was outfielder Raimel Tapia. The Dominican hit .188 in his previous 12 games before the Bakersfield series. But against the Blaze, he hit .375 (6 for 16) with three doubles, a homer, five RBIs and a walk.

Tuesday night’s pitching matchup has yet to be announced, but Konner Wade (7-7, 4.09 ERA) might get the call for Modesto. He started five days ago in the opener against Bakersfield, losing 1-0. Wade threw eight strong innings, allowing just four hits, one a homer to Nelson Ward. Stockton’s Casey Meisner (0-0, 5.40) would be on regular rest for Tuesday’s contest. Game time is 7:05 p.m.

This story was originally published August 10, 2015 at 6:23 PM with the headline "Modesto Nuts open six-game homestand Tuesday against Stockton."