Aeros Regain Offensive Stroke, Pummel 'Cats 13-4
June 21, 2013 - Eastern League (EL1)
Akron RubberDucks News Release
Akron, OH - It was only a matter of time. The Akron Aeros, the Eastern League's top hitting team, had been held to four total runs during the last three games, and was in the midst of a four-game losing streak entering Friday night's game at Canal Park. The Akron hitters were certainly ready to to break out.
The Aeros did just that and then some, finding their stroke early and taking the series opener, 13-4 over the New Britain Rock Cats. The 13 runs and 17 hits tied and set team-highs for the season, respectively.
Akron hammered New Britain starter Tom Stufibergen (1-1) early and often, as the right-hander lasted just 3 1/3 innings, while giving up eight runs on eight hits, striking out one and walking a pair.
The Rock Cats drew first blood in the top of the second when first baseman Reynaldo Rodriguez slapped a triple to center field and was immediately brought home on a Daniel Ortiz RBI-single to right.
But that lead did not hold up for long as the Aeros quickly put runners on second and third with two away in the bottom of the second, and Quincy Latimore dropped a single into right, clearing the bases. Second baseman Jose Ramirez then followed suit and planted a two-run homer into the bleachers in right field, extending the Akron lead to 4-1.
After New Britain struck back with two runs in the top of the fourth, the Aeros plated eight runs in the next three innings to blow the game open.
The Aeros batted around in the fourth, scoring three times, including a solo homer by catcher Jake Lowery. They sent eight men to the plate in the fifth, scoring four more. The big blow in the fifth was a two-run triple by Carlos Moncrief.
Every hitter in the Akron lineup had at least one hit. Seven of the nine had two or more. Ronny Rodriguez was 3-5, and enjoyed his third-consecutive multi-hit game and his second three-hit performance in three nights.
Akron starter Will Roberts (5-4) moved into a tie for the team lead in wins despite giving up 11 hits over five innings. He managed to limit the damage to four runs, while walking none and striking out one.
Taking over for Roberts and cooling the Rock Cats' bats were righty relievers Enosil Tejeda, Blake Wood, Chen-Chung Lee, and Trey Haley, who each pitched a scoreless inning of relief.
Next Game: The Aeros (35-37) and Rock Cats (34-38) will play the middle game of the series on Saturday night at 7:05. RHP Toru Murata (3-3, 3.44 ERA) will get the ball for Akron, while RHP Virgil Vasquez (NR) is the scheduled starter for New Britain. The game will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 1350 AM, and online at www.sportsradio1350.com. For more information, please call the Aeros at 330-253-5151. Follow the team on Twitter @akronaeros or on Facebook at facebook.com/theakronaeros.
Saturday's Promotions: Akron will be giving away their second Northeast Ohio Media Personality bobblehead with an appearance by winner Tony Rizzo! It's also a Mystery Celebrity PA Announcer and we will have Frank Sinatra-themed fireworks after the game!
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