Unicorns Power Past Hoppers in Game Two of Doubleheader
July 27th, 2025
UTICA, Mich. – Backed by a pair of home runs from Carlos Negron and a solo shot from Andrew Valdez, the Utica Unicorns edged out the Eastside Diamond Hoppers 3-2 in Game Two of Saturday’s doubleheader at Jimmy John’s Field. The win marked a bounce-back performance for the Unicorns (15-13), who split the day’s games with the Hoppers (20-10).
The Unicorns struck first with Negron’s solo homer in the bottom of the first, and the outfielder wasn’t done. After the Hoppers briefly took the lead with a two-run third inning—highlighted by RBI from Sam Schner and Gio Ferraro—Negron tied things back up with his second long ball in the fourth.
Valdez added the go-ahead homer in the fifth, his first of the season, giving Utica the edge it needed.
Damian Espinoza earned the win out of the bullpen with a scoreless fifth inning, and Michael Joyce notched his second save of the season, closing the door in the sixth.
The Hoppers threatened throughout, collecting six hits including two doubles from Chase Maifield and two singles from David Kedrow, but stranded six runners on base.
Notable Performers:
- Michael Joyce (UU) – 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, Save
- Carlos Negron (UU) – 2-for-3, 2 HR, 2 R, 2 RBI
- Andrew Valdez (UU) – 1-for-2, HR, RBI
- Chase Maifield (EDH) – 2-for-2, 2 2B, BB
- David Kedrow (EDH) – 2-for-3
- Damian Espinoza (UU) – 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, Win