Aces Fall to Cubs, 6-4

For Immediate Release
May 13, 2013

RENO, Nev.-RHP Zeke Spruill cruised through the first five innings of Monday night's game, but gave up six runs in the sixth, as the Reno Aces fell 6-4 to the Iowa Cubs in the third game of the series at Aces Ballpark.

Spruill allowed just three hits and no walks through the first five frames, before allowing the first six Iowa batters he faced to reach base in the sixth. Logan Watkins singled through the hole between short and third to lead things off, then Spruill walked the next two batters. Two RBI singles and a home run lifted the Cubs to a lead they would not surrender.

Reno posted a three-run third inning off back-to-back RBI doubles and an RBI single, but the club was able to tack on just one more run the rest of the game.

At the dish for Reno, five Aces hitters collected two hits apiece, and Taylor Harbin hit his third home run of the season. Reno recorded 12 hits, while Iowa had seven.

Spruill was charged with his first Triple-A loss, giving up six earned runs on seven hits through 5.0 innings. The Aces bullpen combined to throw four hitless, shutout innings throughout the final 4.0 innings of the game.

Nick Struck earned his first win of the season for Iowa, giving up four earned runs on 11 hits, through 6.0 innings. Zach Putnam was credited with his second save of the season, throwing a perfect ninth inning to close the game.

The homestand wraps up Tuesday afternoon at Aces Ballpark, as Reno looks to secure a series split with Iowa. RHP Chase Anderson (2-4, 6.28 ERA) gets the nod for Reno, while the Cubs will counter with RHP Barret Loux (2-1, 6.41 ERA). First pitch is set for 11:35 a.m. PT, for the second Education Day of the season.  

Tickets are on sale for Tuesday's game, and all Aces home games, at RenoAces.com, by calling (775) 334-7000 or by visiting the Aces Ballpark Ticket Office.