AP Sports Preview

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (Interstat) — The Hickory Crawdads visit the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on Saturday, July 4, at TicketReturn.com Field at Pelican Park in the finale of a six-game series. First pitch is scheduled for under cloudy skies with temperatures at 81 degrees.

Hickory (44-32) holds the best record in the division, while Myrtle Beach (32-44) sits near the bottom. The Pelicans have won two straight in the series, including a 5-2 victory Thursday. Myrtle Beach also won 3-0 on Friday. Hickory had taken two of the first three games of the set, winning 6-3 on Tuesday and 6-2 on Wednesday.

The Crawdads are projected to win a high-scoring contest, with a simulation predicting a 7-4 final.

Players to Watch

Hickory right-hander Jesus Lafalaise has been steady over his last three starts. He allowed one earned run on three hits over 4 1/3 innings in Thursday’s loss to Myrtle Beach. In his three previous outings, he compiled a 1.76 ERA across 15 innings, striking out 14.

Myrtle Beach right-hander Edwardo Melendez has been dominant in limited appearances. He did not allow a hit over 3 2/3 scoreless innings in Thursday’s win against Hickory, striking out four. Over his last five outings, he has a 0.73 ERA in 12 1/3 innings with 11 strikeouts.

Recent Meetings

The teams have split their eight meetings this season, 4-4. Myrtle Beach won three of four at home in May, while Hickory took three of four in the current series before the Pelicans rebounded.

Last Game Standouts

In Thursday’s 5-2 Pelicans win, Hickory got a hit and an RBI from first baseman Curley Martha. Myrtle Beach received strong relief from Melendez and starter Pierce Coppola, who allowed two earned runs over four innings. Jordan Henriquez tossed 1 1/3 scoreless innings.

Upcoming Schedules

Hickory wraps this series Sunday before traveling to Augusta for a six-game set beginning Tuesday. Myrtle Beach hosts the Fredricksburg Nationals for six games starting Tuesday.

Both teams will have an off day Monday before beginning those series.