An ace performance by Michael Ballard led the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs (18-21) to a 4-2 win over the Sugar Land Skeeters (30-9) on Wednesday at Constellation Field, Sugar Land.

Ballard kept the Sugar Land Skeeters off the board during his seven innings of work. Ballard struck out five and allowed no walks and three hits.

The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs would not relinquish the lead as the Sugar Land Skeeters were unable to weather a four-run second inning deficit.

The Sugar Land Skeeters scored two runs in the eighth on two hit into a fielder's choices. Despite their efforts, the Sugar Land Skeeters couldn't get over the hump.

Brian Barton put himself in scoring position with two extra-base hits for the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. He tripled in the first and second innings.

Jason Lane (3-2) took the loss for the Sugar Land Skeeters. He lasted just six innings, walked one, struck out one, and allowed four runs.

The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs were sparked by Wladimir Sutil and Barton, who teamed up for five hits and three RBIs.