STOCKTON (AP) — Taylor Ward homered and had two hits, driving in two as the Inland Empire 66ers topped the Stockton Ports 7-5 on Wednesday.

Nathan Bates allowed a run, but got Seth Brown to fly out with a runner on first to end the game for his fourth save of the season.

Inland Empire took the lead in the first when it put up four runs, including a single by Jared Walsh that scored Ward.

Following the big inning, the Ports cut into the deficit in the second inning when Eli White scored on an error.

The 66ers later tacked on three runs in the third when Ward hit a solo home run and Cody Ramer hit a two-run double to secure the victory.

Stockton saw its comeback attempt come up short after Brett Siddall hit a solo home run in the ninth inning to help cut the Inland Empire lead to 7-5.

Inland Empire starter Jose Rodriguez (7-7) picked up the win despite allowing three runs over 5 2/3 innings. Opposing starter Chris Bassitt (0-1) took the loss in the California League game after giving up four runs and six hits over 1 1/3 innings.

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This story was generated by Automated Insights ( http://www.automatedinsights.com ) using data from and in cooperation with MLB Advanced Media and Minor League Baseball, http://www.milb.com

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