Hessman Smashes His Way to History

July 29, 2015 - International League (IL1)
Toledo Mud Hens News Release

Wednesday afternoon at Fifth Third Field, the Toledo Mud Hens (45-60) cruised past the Rochester Red Wings (54-51) with a score of 9-3. Toledo's infielder, Mike Hessman slugged his name into the record books, recording a two-run homer in the third inning. Hessman went 2-for-4 on the day, recording his 432nd home run of his career, tying the Minor League All-Time Career home run record.

Toledo starting lefty Mike Belfiore owned the mound for the 5.2 innings, allowing only eight hits and two runs. Tom Gorzelanny and Jose Valdez solidified the victory for the Hens in the later innings. The trio of Belfiore, Gorzelanny and Valdez combined for six total strikeouts. Belfiore was awarded the win on the day, improving his record to 5-9 on the season with an ERA of 5.34.

Both clubs didn't hesitate to post runs early in the game. After the Red Wings post a run in the top of the first, the Hens quickly responded. It all began thanks to a sharp single down the line to right field by Marc Krauss, posting the Hens first run. On the season, the Hens' record is 18-42 when their opponents score first. Krauss, the Deshler, Ohio native, went 3-for-4 on the day with a double and two RBI.

Hessman made history in the third inning off of the first pitch by Michael Bowden. Smashing his 15th home run of the season and his 432nd in his career over the left field fence.

Toledo will be on the road on July 31st facing the Louisville Bats in a three-game series. First pitch for Friday's matchup is slated for 7:00 p.m. and Toledo's starting pitcher has yet to be decided.

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