Barfield's Blast Propels Cats to 5-2 Win

June 11, 2013 - Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Sacramento River Cats News Release

RENO, Nev. - Jeremy Barfield's two-run blast to center field propelled the River Cats to a 5-2 win Monday night, as Sacramento beat Reno for the fifth time in five chances at Aces Ballpark this season.

Barfield's second-inning homer, his fourth of the season, put the Cats ahead 3-0 in a game they would never trail. He added a run-scoring groundout later in the game, finishing 1-for-4 with a run scored and three runs batted in. Stephen Vogt and Jemile Weeks were the lone Sacramento hitters with multi-hit games, finishing with two hits apiece.

But the story of the game was the River Cats bullpen. After starter Travis Banwart allowed two runs in 4.2 innings, four Cats relievers combined to allow just one hit and no runs the rest of the way, striking out six while issuing just one walk. Darren Byrd (1-0) picked up the win in relief, while Brian Gordon and Evan Scribner each earned holds. Dan Otero threw a perfect ninth for his 14th save in as many chances, lowering his ERA to a sparkling 0.68 on the season.

Reno starter Chase Anderson (3-7) was on the losing end, allowing four runs-three earned-in six innings pitched.

The River Cats improved to 6-3 on their current season-long 12-game road trip, ensuring at least a .500 trip. The Cats won despite going just 1-for-7 with runners in scoring position.

Sacramento and Reno continue the series Tuesday at Aces Ballpark. Right-hander Sonny Gray (6-3, 2.43 ERA) will get the nod for the River Cats against Aces right-hander Garrett Mock (3-3, 6.55 ERA).

The River Cats return home Friday, June 14, for a four-game set against Tacoma, featuring a pair of fireworks shows and the annual Father's Day Baseball and BBQ event at Raley Field, set for Sunday, June 16.

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