Redbirds Run Away With 20-6 Win

Oklahoma City, Okla. - The Memphis Redbirds (31-52) exploded for 20 runs and 21 hits as they defeated the Oklahoma City RedHawks (46-36) 20-6 before 7,769 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark Saturday night.

The RedHawks actually got out to a 5-0 lead through four innings. They scored twice in the first, and Brandon Barnes added a solo homer in the third. Two more followed in the fourth to extend the lead to five runs.

Things changed dramatically in the fifth. Although they were held without a hit through four innings, Memphis erupted for eight runs and seven hits in the fifth, sending 14 batters to the plate. Seven of the eight runs scored with two outs, and Mark Hamilton broke a 5-5 tie with a three-run homer.

The Redbirds scored 12 more runs over the final four innings, including six in the ninth. Four Redbirds collected at least three hits, and six players drove in two or more runs. The team went 12-for-23 with runners in scoring position.

Adron Chambers went 5-for-6 with four runs scored. Ryan Jackson knocked a pair of doubles and notched a team-best four RBIs. Cedric Hunter, Zack Cox, and Hamilton had three hits apiece.

RedHawks first baseman Mike Hessman tallied the RedHawks lone run after the fourth with his 24th homer of the year in the seventh inning.

Despite a rocky beginning, Memphis pitcher John Gast (5-2) battled and got through 5.2 innings to earn the win. Gast allowed five runs-three earned-and eight hits with two walks and five strikeouts.

RedHawks starting pitcher Brian Bass got off a phenomenal start, retiring the first nine hitters he faced as well as 12 of the first 13 before things went south in the fifth. Bass (1-3) was charged with six runs over 4.2 innings, although only one run was earned. He gave up five hits, walked one, and struck out three.

The RedHawks will try and rebound when they face the Redbirds Sunday at 6:05 p.m. Tickets are available through the RedHawks box office, by calling (405) 218-1000, or by visiting okcredhawks.com.

Live coverage begins at 5:30 p.m. on AM 1340, 1340thegame.com, or through the IHeartRadio mobile app.