Joe Giacchino was cold coming off the bench, but Giacchino warmed up quickly as Giacchino stroked a key pinch-hit single in the nine to lead the Southern Maryland Nationals (15-26) to a 6-5 win over the Herndon Braves (15-24) on Friday at Regency Furniture Stadium.

With the score tied at five, Giacchino came to the plate and singled.

The game was back-and-forth heading into the ninth, with four lead changes.

The Southern Maryland Nationals took the lead in the ninth inning and held on for the victory. An error scored Bryce Shemer and gave the Southern Maryland Nationals the lead for good.

Spencer Wolfe racked up two RBIs on two hits for the Southern Maryland Nationals. He doubled in the seventh inning.

Austin Poretz improved to 3-3 on the year by picking up the win for the Southern Maryland Nationals. He struck out none, walked none and surrendered no hits.

Chase Lemaster (0-4) was the game's losing pitcher. He lasted just 1 2/3 innings, walked one, struck out two, and allowed one run.