Smokies Lose Pitcher's Duel
Published on May 8, 2003 under Southern League (SL1)
Knoxville Smokies News Release
Sevierville, Tenn. - Jason Fitzgerald doubled leading off the ninth inning and scored on James Jurries' ground out as Greenville (17-15) won its third straight over the Smokies (20-13) 2-1 Thursday night at Smokies Park.
The Braves pushed the winning run across against Jeremy Lambert (0-1) when Fitzgerald moved to third on a passed ball. Caonabo Cosme made a diving stop on Jurries' ground ball, but could only make the play at first as the winning run crossed the plate.
Tennessee starter Danny Haren allowed a run in the first inning to snap his 19 2/3 inning scoreless streak but struck out a season high 8 batters in the no decision. Richard Lewis doubled to open the game and moved to third on a sacrifice. Lewis scored on an RBI single by Fitzgerald, who finished with two of the Braves five hits. Haren (5-0) retired the final eleven batters he faced.
The Smokies managed only one run against Greenville starter Matt Belisle. John Nelson reached on a two-base throwing error by shortstop Kelly Johnson in the third inning, and scored on a single by Skip Schumaker to tie the game.
Kazuhiro Takeoka (1-0) finished the eighth and pitched a scoreless ninth to earn his first in.
Greenville and Tennessee will conclude their series Friday night at 7:15. In a battle of talented pitchers, Rick Ankiel (1-1, 6.75) will make his first start of the season and be opposed by Braves top prospect Adam Wainright (2-2, 2.83).
Roster move: Smokies RHP B.R. Cook was promoted to AAA Memphis and OF Scott Krause was activated off the DL.
Southern League Stories from May 8, 2003
- Rough fifth dooms Suns, 5-0 - Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
- Smokies Lose Pitcher's Duel - Knoxville Smokies
- Mudcats Stop O-Rays - Orlando Rays
- BayBears to host return of Company B from Gulf War - Mobile BayBears
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
