9/18 Smokies win over Mobile

Nelson Perez homered in the eighth inning to spark a three-run rally and lead Tennessee to a 4-2 win over Mobile Saturday in Game 3 of the Southern League Championship Series.  With the win, the Smokies keep their playoff hopes alive, as Mobile now leads the best-of-five series 2-1.

Mobile took a quick 2-0 lead but Nate Samson hit a RBI double to close to 2-1.  In the eighth, Perez led off with a solo homer to tie the game. Jim Adduci and Blake Lalli both walked, and Rebel Ridling ripped an RBI single to go ahead, 3-2. An error allowed pinch runner David Macias to score, extending the lead to 4-2. Jeff Beliveau (1-0) got the win and Rafael Dolis picked up the save.

Game 4 will be played Sunday at Smokies Park. Trey McNutt is slated to start for Tennesse against Mobile right-hander Trevor Bauer.

– Carrie Muskat