By: Evan Rogers

HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C. — In comeback fashion, the Holly Springs Salamanders (7-5) knocked off the Asheboro Zookeepers (2-9), 4-2, Saturday night at Ting Stadium. 

In the first frame, Asheboro’s Michael Zarillo beamed a single past the outstretched glove of shortstop Gavin Troutman. Two batters later, first baseman Bryce Marsh blitzed a two-run homer into the right-field bullpen to give the Zookeepers the early lead, 2-0. 

In the bottom half of the same inning, Holly Springs looked to respond to the early deficit. And, third baseman Eddie Eisert’s two-out single put the Salamanders in prime position to do so. But, designated hitter Jack Oberdorf struck out swinging to end Holly Springs’ offensive attack. 

After being held scoreless for seven innings, the Salamanders broke through in the bottom of the eighth inning.

Jack Winsett kicked off the rally with a skying single that landed in the right-field gap. One batter later, catcher Jacob Godman laid down a blooping bunt single that put two Salamanders on base with zero outs. Following a sacrifice bunt to advance Holly Springs’ base runners, center fielder Brett Callahan smashed a 2-RBI triple that ricocheted off the center-field wall and tied the game.

Yet, the Salamanders were just getting started. Back-to-back RBI’s by right fielder Nate Carriere and Eisert gave Holly Springs a 4-2 lead — an advantage the Salamanders would not relinquish.

For the large majority of the game, Holly Springs struggled to find its rhythm at the plate. However, the barrel of Callahan triggered a four-run eighth inning to complete the Salamanders’ rally and give Holly Springs its fourth victory in five games.

The Salamanders will be back in action on Sunday at Ting Stadium against the South Wake Shakes. First pitch for Holly Springs’ game is scheduled for 5:40 p.m.