Four Two-Run Shots Doom Bats, Fall to Clippers 12-4
Published on April 9, 2009 under International League (IL1)
Louisville Bats News Release
The Louisville Bats opened the 2009 season against the Columbus Clippers on a rainy Thursday night at Louisville Slugger Field. The Bats looked to continue their momentum from a productive spring training into the regular season. There were 9, 037 fans on hand to witness the first game.
Cincinnati Reds prospect Homer Bailey was competing to start the season in the majors with Cincinnati, but because of limited roster space, he started Opening Day for the Bats. It was his second straight opening day start for the Bats.
After a strong spring, expectations were high for Bailey. Columbus ruined Bailey's 2009 debut however, by putting up nine runs on nine hits in five-and-a-third innings. Bailey's day was worsened by two throwing errors. His control was not an issue though, giving up only one walk.
The Bats offense kept the game close courtesy of the bats of Adam Rosales and Luis Bolivar. Both homered off of Clippers' starting pitcher David Huff.
Huff (1-0, 7.20) got the win going five innings, and giving up four runs on five hits. Huff also had five strikeouts on the night.
As the weather began to clear, Columbus opened the game up in the top of the fifth inning. The game was locked at three runs apiece when Jordan Brown singling to right. Bailey then threw the ball into centerfield attempting to force Brown, allowing runners to reach safely on first and second. A two-run single by Michael Brantley made the score 5-3. Luis Valbuena added to the lead with a two-run blast to right field.
The Bats never recovered from that dominant firth inning and the Clippers tacked on five more runs to ensure not being caught from behind. The Clippers finished with four two-run home runs, courtesy of Michael Aubrey, Valbuena, Brown and Matt LaPorta.
Bailey (0-1, 13.50) took the loss for the Bats.
Offensively, Adam Rosales led Louisville, going 2-for-4 with a home run. Luis Bolivar also homered for the Bats. Jonny Gomes and Norris Hopper each finished with a hit apiece.
The Bats finished with four runs on five hits.
Louisville continues their four-game series with Columbus at 7:05 pm on Friday at Louisville Slugger Field. LHP Matt Maloney will get the start for the Bats and be opposed by LHP Aaron Laffey.
International League Stories from April 9, 2009
- Four Two-Run Shots Doom Bats, Fall to Clippers 12-4 - Louisville Bats
- Bulls Turn Back Tides in Opener - Durham Bulls
- Tides fall in season opener - Norfolk Tides
- Knights Fall in Home Opener - Charlotte Knights
- International League News And Notes - IL1
- Bisons Announce 2009 Opening Day Roster - Buffalo Bisons
- Bisons Notes - Buffalo Bisons
- Tides announce Opening Day roster - Norfolk Tides
- Indians Announce 2009 Team Roster - Indianapolis Indians
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