Three first-inning runs helped the Joliet Slammers (27-37) to a 5-3 win over the Windy City ThunderBolts (36-27) at Silver Cross Field on Saturday.

The Joliet Slammers would not relinquish the lead as the Windy City ThunderBolts were unable to weather a five-run third inning deficit.

The Windy City ThunderBolts scored three runs in the seventh on two singles. Still, the Windy City ThunderBolts couldn't catch the Joliet Slammers.

Patrick Norris was solid at the plate for the Joliet Slammers. Norris went 3-4, drove in one and scored one run. He doubled in the second inning and singled in the first and fourth innings.

Jim Schult's six strikeouts helped the Joliet Slammers to the victory. Schult allowed two earned runs, five hits and no walks over six innings.

Stephen Sauer (6-5) took the loss for the Windy City ThunderBolts. He lasted just seven innings, walked two, struck out six, and allowed five runs.