PCL1 Fresno Grizzlies

Big Inning Sinks Hennessey, Grizzlies In Opener

Published on July 31, 2008 under Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Fresno Grizzlies News Release


FRESNO, CA - One big inning catapulted the Memphis Redbirds to a 6-1 series-opening win over the Grizzlies on Wednesday night at Chukchansi Park. Travis Ishikawa homered for Fresno, who loaded the bases in the bottom of the ninth with just one out, only to be held back by Redbirds closer Chris Perez.

In the first three frames, Grizzlies starter Brad Hennessey struck out three batters, and held Memphis scoreless. However, two home runs in the top of the fourth inning by Redbirds Josh Phelps and John Jay collectively brought in five runs, giving Memphis an abrupt 5-0 lead. Phelps' homer was his sixth in his last ten at-bats, and 24th of the season.

In the bottom of the sixth inning, Travis Ishikawa ripped his eighth home run into the right-field bleachers to put Fresno on the board, and cut the deficit to 5-1. The run was the only one surrendered by Memphis starter Mitchell Boggs, who allowed only three hits in 6.1 innings of work before giving way to the bullpen.

The Redbirds added an insurance run in the eighth inning against Erick Threets. After Phelps walked, and advanced to second on a ground out, a soft single by Jarrett Hoffpauir scored him to put Memphis on top 6-1.

Redbirds reliever Jason Motte held Fresno scoreless for five outs in relief of Boggs before handing off to Mark Worrell. The Grizzlies managed to load the bases with one out against Worrell, forcing Memphis to bring in closer Chris Perez who struck out Julio Cordido and Clay Timpner to nail down the win.

The Grizzlies and Redbirds meet again on Thirsty Thursday at Chukchansi Park. Southpaw Steve Hammond, who has earned a win in his first two appearances for Fresno, takes the hill. Memphis sends Major League veteran John Wasdin to the mound, with first pitch set for 7:05pm.

TOMORROW'S MATCHUP

Chukchansi Park - 7:05pm

LHP Steve Hammond vs. RHP John Wasdin

UPCOMING PROMOTIONS

Thursday, July 31: Thirsty Thursday ($1 Tecate Light beers until 5th inning, $1 sodas all night)

Friday, August 1: Friday Night Fireworks, Orange-Out T-shirts (1,000), Comic Book Giveaway (3,000), Superhero Night

Saturday, August 2: Pillow Giveaway (2,500), World's Largest Sleepover

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Pacific Coast League Stories from July 31, 2008


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