Preview: Marauders at Threshers

CLEARWATER, Fla. (Interstat) — The Clearwater Threshers look to build on a three-game winning streak against the Bradenton Marauders when the teams meet Friday night at 6:30 p.m. at Spectrum Field.

Clearwater (10-7) has taken the first three games of the six-game series, outscoring the Marauders 17-13. The Threshers won 5-3 on Wednesday behind a strong relief outing from right-hander Cody Bowker, who allowed one hit and struck out seven over three scoreless innings.

Bowker (1-1, 6.23 ERA) is a player to watch Friday. In his most recent appearance, the right-hander threw 44 pitches in his three-inning stint, inducing five swings and misses. The outing was a bounce-back for Bowker, who had allowed five runs in three innings in a loss to Tampa on April 10.

Bradenton (6-11) counters with right-hander Seth Hernandez (1-0, 0.00 ERA), who makes his second start of the season. Hernandez has not allowed an earned run in five innings across two appearances. The Marauders have lost seven of their past eight games, their only win coming April 19 at Tampa.

Bradenton’s Clevari Tejada, a right-handed pitcher, has been effective in recent outings. Over his past four appearances, Tejada has a 1.93 ERA with 14 strikeouts in 14 innings. He threw five scoreless innings Wednesday, allowing one hit and striking out five.

Clearwater’s Alirio Ferrebus drove in four runs Wednesday, including a home run, and MT Morrissey struck out five over three scoreless innings.

The weather forecast calls for clear skies and 75 degrees at first pitch.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 6-2 Clearwater victory.

Following Friday’s game, the teams play Saturday and Sunday at Spectrum Field before Bradenton returns home to face Lakeland on Tuesday.