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Tennessee Smokies

Smokies Strand 14 in 3-1 Loss to Stars on Wednesday

July 1, 2009 - Southern League (SL1)
Tennessee Smokies News Release


SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. - The Tennessee Smokies struggled at the plate when it counted most Wednesday night, stranding 14 runners in a 3-1 loss to the Huntsville Stars at Smokies Park. The loss, in front of 2,581 fans, evens the six-game series at two games a piece, and puts the Smokies at 5-5 in the season's second half, 37-43 overall.

Tennessee starter Jeremy Papelbon was on his game Wednesday night, shutting out the Stars through the first five innings. He allowed only three hits and three walks, striking out three. Papelbon would leave after the fifth inning and not factor into the decision.

The Smokies would score their only of the game in the fifth, giving them a 1-0 lead. With one out in the frame and Russ Canzler on first, Jonathan Mota doubled to center. Manager Ryne Sandberg, from the third base coach's box, initially waved Canzler home. Seeing however that the relay throw from Huntsville SS Yohannis Perez would beat Canzler at home plate, Sandberg threw up the hold sign as Canzler passed third. Canzler attempted to head back to third, but Perez instinctively threw to Stars' third baseman Michael Garicaparra for the second out.

The Smokies would still get their run in the fifth though as Jim Adduci singled to left field, bringing teammate Mota around from second. Tennessee's lead would not last long though as Huntsville rallied for two runs in the sixth off Smokies reliever Jake Muyco. Muyco (2-3) would take the loss, allowing two runs on four hits in two innings of work.

Former Smokies pitcher Mark Holliman (7-2) picked up the win for Huntsville, allowing one run on seven hits in 5.2 innings. Holliman walked one and struck out four. Teammate Robert Hinton (S, 10) picked up the save, getting Smokies C Welington Castillo out on a called third strike with the bases loaded to end the game.

Tennessee and Huntsville square off in Game 5-of-6 Thursday night at Smokies Park. Josh Butler (1-1, 2.50) takes the mound for Huntsville and will face Jay Jackson (4-3, 3.15) for Tennessee. Tickets for the game can be purchased at www.smokiesbaseball.com, by calling (865) 286-2300 or at the stadium ticket office.

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