Mashers Fall to Mud Hens, 5-2
July 7, 2018 - International League (IL1)
Louisville Bats News Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Despite recovering from an early two-run deficit, the Louisville Mashers (34-50) were unable to combat a three-run eighth inning from the Toledo Mud Hens (49-38), ultimately falling by a 5-2 score in game two of the series.
Jose Lopez (3-7, 4.68) was extremely efficient on the mound for Louisville. Despite surrendering one earned run, he threw consistently and flourished in front of a confident and sharp defense executed by the outfielders. Lopez opened with his first pickoff of the season and went seven innings, allowing two runs (one earned) from five hits while walking one and striking out three.
Zack Weiss (2-1, 2.84) entered in relief for Louisville and took the loss. He went 0.2 innings allowing three runs, one earned, from two hits while walking one and striking out one.
Toledo's Hunter Cervenka (1-0, 0.00) entered in relief and earned his first win for the season. He went 1.1 innings and recorded one strikeout.
While the Mud Hens took an early lead from a solo home run in the second, the true highlight of the inning was the impressive catch made by third-baseman Josh VanMeter. In an effort to get an out, VanMeter toppled over the fence and landed in the Louisville dugout having caught the ball, setting the standard of fielding for the night.
The third inning produced similar displays of defense. With the Mud Hens hitting, a single and an error put runners at first and third. Dawel Lugo stepped up to crank a deep fly ball which was read perfectly by Phillip Ervin, ultimately only resulting in a sacrifice fly ball to score Jarrod Saltalamacchia and put the Mud Hens up by two. Chadwick Tromp caught Jacob Robson stealing second in the following play to end the frame and prevent any more damage.
The Mashers got even in the fifth. Nick Longhi led off with his second double of the season and was followed by two walks to load the bases. Phil Ervin continued his steaming hot streak with a line-drive single to bring home Longhi and Trahan and tie the game 2-2.
Despite a solid effort of catch-up, the Mud Hens eventually stole the game in the eighth with a three-run inning. An opening walk, followed by a single and a passed ball put runners at third and second when Dawel Lugo stepped up to hit a sacrifice fly ball to score Pete Kozma. The runs continued as a Mashers error then scored Jacob Robson. The third run came when Herlis Rodriguez connected for a triple to score Krizan and give Toledo a 5-2 lead.
The Mashers will be back at Louisville Slugger Field Sunday afternoon for the final game of the series. Right-handed starter, Keury Mella will make his 2018 Bats debut as he goes head-to-head against Toledo righty, Kyle Dowdy (5-3, 4.03). First pitch is set for 2:00 p.m.
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