Rainiers Rip Albuquerque, 11-5
August 20, 2010 - Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Tacoma Rainiers News Release
The Tacoma Rainiers enlisted an onslaught of offense to blast past Albuquerque 11-5 at Cheney Stadium on Thursday.
Tacoma broke open a 1-1 tie in the bottom of the fifth, scoring six runs on eight hits with three home runs. The three-home run frame was the Rainiers first since going deep three times in the top of the second inning against Omaha one year ago today on August 19, 2009.
Outfielder Greg Halman got things going with a solo home run, his 29th of the season, to lead off the inning. The second blast came three batters later with a two-run shot from third baseman Matt Mangini, upping the Rainiers lead to four runs. Outfielder David Winfree rounded things out with another two-run blast two batters later with first baseman Justin Smoak aboard on second base.
The first baseman Smoak led the Rainiers lineup despite not belting any of the Rainiers four home runs on Thursday. Smoak ended the outing going 3-for-5 with two RBI, including a pair of doubles. John Lindsey's three-run home run in the eighth inning proved to be the bright spot for the 'Topes.
The win gave Tacoma a 2-1 series lead over the Isotopes heading into the series finale between the two teams on Friday night and extended the Rainiers lead over Salt Lake to 1.5 games for first place in the PCL Pacific Northern Division.
The win went to Tacoma starter Blake Beavan, his second with the Rainiers, after the right-hander held the Isotopes to two runs on seven hits over seven innings while fanning six.
Albuquerque starter Seth Etherton was dealt the fifth loss of his 2010 campaign with the Isotopes after surrendering seven runs on 10 hits with two walks and five strikeouts in a four-inning effort.
Tacoma returns to action at 7pm on Friday night for the final game of their four-game set with the Isotopes. Headed to the hill for the Rainiers will be left-hander Mauricio Robles (0-0, 9.00) against right-hander Charlie Haeger (2-1, 5.23) for Albuquerque.
For season tickets, group or Muckleshoot Casino Party Deck information call (253) 752-7707, email tickets@tacomarainiers.com or visit our website at www.tacomarainiers.com.
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