SL1 Birmingham Barons

Stars Blind Barons, 2-1

Published on July 29, 2011 under Southern League (SL1)
Birmingham Barons News Release


Hoover, AL - Dan Merklinger tossed eight shutout innings as the Huntsville Stars (15-19, 52-52) blinded the Birmingham Barons (15-19, 55-49), 2-1, in front of 7,194 fans Friday night at Regions Park.

In the top of the ninth inning, the Stars seized a 2-0 lead when Hainley Statia smacked a leadoff double and advanced to third on a groundout. Following a walk to Erik Komatsu, a two-out groundball by Zelous Wheeler scored Statia and Komatsu after a throwing error by Barons third baseman Jake Oester.

The Barons' attempt for a comeback in the bottom of the ninth came up short when Jon Gilmore doubled to left field and scored on Seth Loman's RBI double off the right-field wall as Birmingham's deficit was cut in half, 2-1.

Merklinger (7-6) earned the victory for the Stars as the southpaw hurled 8.0 scoreless IP with 3 hits, 1 walk and 8 strikeouts.

Leyson Septimo (4-2) received the loss after the left-hander surrendered two unearned runs on 1 hit, 1 walk and 2 strikeouts. Terry Doyle was handed the no-decision after he tossed 8.0 scoreless IP with 2 hits, 2 walks and 4 strikeouts.

Birmingham and Huntsville conclude their five-game series on Saturday night, with first pitch set for 6:30 p.m. at Regions Park. The Barons hand the ball to left-handed pitcher Justin Edwards (3-4, 4.53) as the Stars turn to right-hander Cody Scarpetta (6-5, 4.28).

Birmingham Barons tickets are currently available on the web, over the phone or by visiting the Regions Park Box Office. For ticket information, game schedule, or promotions calendar, call (205) 988-3200 or visit www.barons.com, www.facebook.com/birminghambarons or on Twitter: @bhambarons.

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Southern League Stories from July 29, 2011


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