Bats sneak by Clippers 2-1

A solid pitching performance by Paulo Espino was spoiled by Louisville as the Bats escaped with a 2-1 win over Columbus at Louisville Slugger Field.

A Nate Spears RBI groundout in the top of the second staked Columbus to an early 1-0 lead. It would stay that way until the seventh inning when Neftali Soto and Felix Perez hit back-to-back home runs to give Louisville a 2-1 advantage.

Paulo Espino pitched well on the mound. The Panamanian righty went six 2/3 innings, surrendering two runs on four hits while striking out seven with no walks.

The Clippers could not put together the necessary rally in the final innings as Louisville came away with the win. Zach Duke (W, 2-0) got the win for the Bats. Espino (L, 4-5) was the hard luck loser for Columbus. Jose Diaz (S, 11) closed it out in the ninth.

Columbus and Louisville will be back at it on Tuesday night. Josh Tomlin (0-0, 5.40) will start on the mound for the Clippers. The Bats will go with right-hander Pedro Villareal (3-8, 4.79). First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM.