PCL1 Fresno Grizzlies

Grizzlies Take Express-way to Victory

Published on May 31, 2007 under Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Fresno Grizzlies News Release


Fresno, CA - If the Fresno Grizzlies and Round Rock Express didn't play the fifth inning of their game Thursday night, who knows what the outcome would have been. But they did.

It was the Grizzlies' five-run bottom of the fifth inning that put the game between Fresno (27-27) and Round Rock (24-29) out of reach. The Grizzlies put together a five-hit, five-run assault on Express starting pitcher Juan Gutierrez, who suffered the loss in the 8-1 outcome.

However, it was Fresno starting pitcher Travis Blackley's masterful performance on the mound that that kept the Express out of the game all night long. Blackley pitched seven innings of shutout ball, allowing only two hits on 95 pitches.

Blackley's performance on the hill for the Grizzlies continues a torrid trend of hot pitching by Fresno's staff at home, where 4,548 fans watched Wednesday's game. Entering the game against the Express, the Grizzlies carried a home ERA of 2.92, compared to a 4.60 ERA while on the road.

Perhaps just as impressive as Blackley's dominance on the mound were the hot bats of the Grizzlies hitters. Centerfielder Justin Leone reached base all five times he had a plate appearance, collecting four hits, all singles, in four at-bats. Leone was also hit by a pitch. Leone is now 12 for his last 18 at the plate, good for a .667 batting average in his last 10 games.

Grizzlies third baseman Tomas De La Rosa picked up three hits, including a double, as he drove in two of the Grizzlies' eight runs and reached base four out of five tries.

Thursday's game three match-up between Fresno and Round Rock will also be the latest installment of Thirsty Thursday, presented by 104.1 FM. 12 oz. beers and sodas will be available for just $1. Tomorrow night's game also marks the close of Mustache May, as the "Bochy Awards" will be given out to deserving front office members for their dedication to the maintenance of their facial hair. Tomorrow will be the last day for fans to donate to their favorite front office 'stache. All proceeds from Mustache May directly benefit the Junior Grizzlies league.

Tickets are available at the Chukchansi Park ticket office, over the phone at 559-320-TIXS, or online at www.fresnogrizzlies.com.

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Pacific Coast League Stories from May 31, 2007


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