Solis gets even better, Lehman rebounds, Harper homer streak

Scottsdale left-hander Sammy Solis built on last week's solid performance with a gem Saturday, pitching four innings, allowing one unearned run, scattering five hits, striking out five and walking two. Solis left with the game tied at one, and did not factor in the decision. Salt River eventually won 4-3 over Scottsdale. He also picked off a runner. Solis faced 18 hitters, ending up with 71 pitches, 45 for strikes. His ERA fell to 5.21. Reliever Patrick Lehman came in a pitcher later and held the game in check for one inning, The George Washington product faced three batters, striking out two of them, firing 12 pitches, nine for strikes. This was his first appearance since he allowed 10 runs in four games. It was also his first opportunity since pitching coach Paul Menhart fixed a mechanical flaw in Lehman's delivery. Rafael Martin (0-1) gave up a run in the ninth to take the loss, a solo shot to Kyle Russell. Derek Norris went 2-for-5 and his average is now .356. The Goddard, Kansas, native is batting .412 with 14 hits and 10 runs his last 10 games and has a nine-game hitting streak. Bryce Harper did not play in Saturday's game, but he just completed his best week of play in the Arizona Fall League. In the previous three games, Harper crushed three homers for 10 RBIs. His average is now at .259. After starting slowly in Arizona, Harper has four homers and 15 RBIs in his last six games. In his last 10 games, he is averaging .342 with 13 hits, two doubles, one triple and the four round trippers. Further, Harper has those 13 hits in his last nine games.