SL1 Knoxville Smokies

Smokies Drop Finale Against Archer, Biscuits

Published on July 7, 2011 under Southern League (SL1)
Knoxville Smokies News Release


Montgomery, AL - Another impressive performance by a Montgomery starting pitcher prevented the Smokies offense from doing any damage, and the Biscuits held on to beat Tennessee 4-1 on Thursday night at Riverwalk Stadium. The loss drops the Smokies to 8-7 in the second half, and to 51-34 overall.

The Biscuits scored first in every game this series, and they continued that trend in the fourth inning off Smokies RHP Matt Loosen (0-1). Tim Beckham drew a one-out walk and moved to third base on a single to right field by Stephen Vogt. Beckham would come in to score on a fielder's choice by Nevin Ashley to put Montgomery up 1-0. The next batter, John Matulia cranked out a two-run homer to right-centerfield, and the Biscuits led 3-0 after four innings. Montgomery would pick up another run in the sixth inning, as Vogt doubled with one out, moved to third base on a groundout and then scored on a Loosen wild pitch to put Montgomery ahead 4-0.

Facing their former teammate in Biscuits RHP Chris Archer (4-4), the Smokies were limited to just four hits over seven innings. Archer also walked three and struck out six. It was just the second time Archer pitched through seven full innings this season.

The Smokies got on the board in the eighth inning, as they loaded the bases with less than two outs off RHP Marquis Fleming. Nate Samson would tag up and score on a sacrifice fly by Blake Lalli, but that would be all Tennessee could plate, as Rebel Ridling flew out to left field to end the frame. In the ninth inning, Josh Vitters doubled with one out and then moved to third base on a wild pitch to Matt Spencer. Vitters eventually scored on a groundout by Spencer to cut Montgomery's lead to 4-2. However, RHP Ryan Reid was able to get Samson to fly out to right field to end the ball game.

Tennessee has now dropped four of the last six series played. Through the four games against the Biscuits, they went 1-for-20 with runners in scoring position.

The Smokies return to Smokies Park on Friday to welcome in the Chattanooga Lookouts at 7:15 PM. RHP Trey McNutt (1-3, 4.50) makes the start for the Smokies, and the Lookouts give the ball RHP Will Savage (8-3, 4.02). Tickets can be purchased at www.smokiesbaseball.com or by calling (865) 286-2300.

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Southern League Stories from July 7, 2011


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