Long Balls Launch Aces to 8-5 Win

For Immediate Release
August 31, 2013

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah-Reno broke a franchise-high streak of seven games without a home run on Saturday night, as the Aces took a 8-5 victory over the Salt Lake Bees at Spring Mobile Ballpark.

Juan Rivera recorded the first long ball in the fourth inning, before Josh Wilson hit one out in the fifth to knot the game at four. Alfredo Marte hit a go-ahead homer in the next frame, giving the Aces a 7-4 edge. Reno tacked on an insurance run in the ninth, when Mike Jacobs doubled down the left field line to plate Chris Owings.

Aces batters combined for 12 hits on the night. Rivera went 2-for-5 with a pair of runs scored on the night. The veteran outfielder has gone 45-for-136 (.331) with seven home runs in the second half of the season. Marte went 2-for-4 with three RBI and two runs.

Pacific Coast League Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player Owings went 1-for-3 with two walks and two runs.

Aces starter Zeke Spruill advanced to 6-5 on the season for Reno. He allowed four runs on seven hits in 5.0 innings while striking out five.

Evan Marshall, Joe Paterson and Kevin Munson were each credited with a hold, combining to throw 3.0 shutout innings. The trio allowed just one hit between them, while striking out four. David Hernandez allowed a run in the ninth, marking the first run he has given up since joining Reno.

The series continues Sunday afternoon at Spring Mobile Ballpark, as Reno looks to secure the series victory. The Aces have yet to announce their starter. RHP Billy Buckner (7-3, 4.86 ERA) will get the nod for the Bees. First pitch is set for 12:05 p.m. PT, and all of the action can be heard live on KPLY 630 AM.  

Ticket packages are now available for the 2014 season at RenoAces.com, by calling (775) 334-7000 or by visiting the Aces Ballpark Ticket Office.