Paul Schoenfeld delivered a go-ahead grand slam in the eighth inning to power the Visalia Rawhide to a 10-8 victory against the Stockton Ports on September 3, 2026, at Valley Strong Ballpark in Visalia, California. Trailing 7-6, Schoenfeld came to bat with the bases loaded and one out, launching the Rawhide ahead with their first grand slam of the season.
Schoenfeld’s grand slam cleared the top of the right field scoreboard and capped off a night where he tied Rawhide single-game records by registering five hits and five RBIs. The 2026 eighth-round draft pick by the Arizona Diamondbacks has collected 18 hits and 14 RBIs in his first 14 professional games.
The game featured multiple lead changes, with Visalia overcoming three deficits. Key contributions came from Ryder Helfrick, Brayden Dowd, Carson Kerce, and Victor Santana, who helped keep the Rawhide competitive throughout. Helfrick’s two-run home run in the fifth inning started a rally, while Dowd and Santana added crucial RBIs later in the game.
Julien Hernandez earned the win by pitching the final 1.1 innings and striking out three batters, protecting the Rawhide’s lead after Stockton scored three runs in the top of the eighth. The victory improved Visalia’s overall record to 54-74 and 26-36 in league play. Stockton slipped to 58-70 overall and 31-31 in the league, with Visalia now leading the series two games to none.
The game featured promotions at Valley Strong Ballpark, including concessions discounts and giveaways. The series resumes Thursday with a 6:35 p.m. first pitch at the same venue.
CSB Take
Paul Schoenfeld’s grand slam was the defining moment in a closely contested game, establishing him as a vital offensive player for the Visalia Rawhide. This victory boosts the team’s confidence and improves their league standing, setting momentum for upcoming games. With a 2-0 series lead at home, Visalia is positioned to build on this success as the season progresses at Valley Strong Ballpark.
Source: Original report
