Knights Drop Thursday's Opener to Tides 6-4

(NORFOLK, VA) -- RF Avisaíl García had two hits, including a two-run home run in the eighth inning, but the Charlotte Knights dropped the opening game of their four-game series against the Norfolk Tides by a score of 6-4 on Thursday from Harbor Park in Norfolk, VA. Despite the loss, the Knights are 12-7 over their last 19 games.

Appearing in his third game with the Knights on a major league rehab assignment from the Chicago White Sox, García went 2-for-4 with a double, a home run, and three RBIs on Thursday evening. García, who batted second and played right field for a second consecutive day, is now 3-for-9 at the plate with the Knights this year. As a team, the Knights recorded eight total hits in Thursday's opener.

RHP Michael Kopech (2-5, 5.20) started the game for the Knights and was saddled with the loss. The top pitching prospect in the Chicago White Sox organization allowed five runs on two hits in three innings of work. He also walked eight batters and struck-out two. RHP Tyler Danish allowed just two hits over three shutout innings, while RHP Ricardo Pinto allowed one run over two innings out of the Charlotte bullpen.

Norfolk LHP Joely Rodríguez (3-2, 4.28) earned the win in relief of RHP Jimmy Yacabonis. Rodriguez tossed 2.1 scoreless innings for the Tides. Former Charlotte RHP Jhan Mariñez earned his eighth save of the season after recording the final four outs.

The Knights will continue their four-game road series against the Norfolk Tides from Harbor Park on Friday night. Pre-game radio coverage of Friday's 7:05 p.m. game will begin at 6:50 PM on 730 The Game ESPN Charlotte. The "Voice of the Charlotte Knights" Matt Swierad will have the call for all of the action.