Chico returns to form with six shutout innings for Syracuse

By Byron Kerr

Nationals

August 18, 2010, 7:43pm

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Nationals left-hander Matt Chico had one of his best outings for Syracuse Wednesday, hurling six shutout innings. The Chiefs were unable to finish off Louisville and lost 5-3, but Chico was very pleased with how he pitched. Chico scattered six hits, allowed no runs, no walks and struck out five after allowing at least three runs in four of his last five starts. Chico said the key to his outing was getting his off speed pitch to connect, saying, "My change up felt good tonight. I was able to throw it in any count." Chico has struck out 15 batters in his last two games, a span of 12 innings, and feels like he has turned a corner. "I am feeling more comfortable on the mound than I have in a long time." His ERA is down to 3.70 and has walked only two batters in his last four starts. Josh Wilkie came on and registered five strikeouts in two shutout innings for his eighth hold. Syracuse led 3-0 heading into the ninth, but Adam Carr and Atahualpa Severino allowed five runs on a couple of homers in the stunning Louisville comeback. Devin Mesoraco won it with a walk off grand slam.