Knights Drop Thursday's Finale to Bulls 6-3

(UPTOWN CHARLOTTE, NC) -- Shortstop José Rondόn launched a two-run home run, but the Charlotte Knights dropped the finale of their two-game series to the Durham Bulls by a score of 6-3 on Thursday at BB&T Ballpark in Uptown Charlotte. The two teams split the series.

Rondόn launched his ninth home run of the season in the third inning of Thursday's contest. The 24-year-old has now homered five times over his last 12 games. His nine home runs with the Knights are now tied for the team lead with infielder Matt Skole .

The Knights had a total of seven hits on the night, including two doubles from first baseman Casey Gillaspie , who went 2-for-4 at the plate. Second baseman Eddy Alvarez chipped in with his team-high 21^st double of the season.

RHP Michael Kopech (3-7, 4.70) started for the Knights and was saddled with the loss after he allowed four runs on three hits over three innings. Kopech, 22, struck-out six batters on the night to add to his season total, which is now at 111. He currently leads the International League in strikeouts. RHP Tyler Danish gave up just one hit over three shutout innings out of the bullpen. RHP Gregory Infante and RHP Thyago Vieira added a scoreless inning apiece.

The Knights will now head to Lawrenceville, GA to open a three-game series against the Gwinnett Stripers (Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves) on Friday. Pre-game radio coverage of Friday's 7:05 p.m. game is set for 6:50 p.m. on 730 The Game ESPN Charlotte. The "Voice of the Charlotte Knights" Matt Swierad will have the call for all of the action.