The Mudcats (21-19) pounded Nationals pitching for 12 runs and 18 hits, both season highs. Every Mudcat hitter had a base knock, and seven had multi-hit games.
Jordan Cooper (1-2) was spectacular in relief for Carolina, hurling four shutout innings. The right-hander allowed one hit, and finished the night retiring 11 straight. He struck out five.
Matt Grace (2-5) was hit hard in the start for Potomac. The left-hander allowed eight runs over five innings on 12 hits.
The onslaught was highlighted by three hits each from Jeremie Tice and Anthony Gallas. Tice became the Carolina League RBI leader by driving in four, increasing his total to 32. The Dacula, Ga., native launched a three-run homer in the third inning.
Gallas drove in a pair of runs with a single in the second inning. Tony Wolters and Tyler Holt each drove in a run with a triple. Wolters and Carlos Moncrief finished with two RBI.
Justin Bloxom had a two-run shot for Potomac to tie the game 2-2 in the second, but that was the closest the Nationals got to the lead.
The Mudcats face Potomac for the second of three at 6:35 Saturday night. The team returns home on Friday, May 25, to host the Winston-Salem Dash. Tickets are available through the box office by calling (919) 269-2287 or visiting carolinamudcats.com.
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