Columbus defeat Bulls in pitcher's duel

Danny Salazar helped pitch Columbus past Durham as the Clippers hung on for a 2-1 win at Durham Bulls Athletic Park.

The Clippers quickly jumped out to an early 1-0 lead when Matt Carson plated a run with an RBI single in the top of the second. From there, Columbus righty Danny Salazar shut down Durham by blanking the Bulls on two hits in five innings of work. Another run would cross the plate for Columbus in the top of the sixth when Chun Chen plated a second run with an RBI double to left.

The Bulls nearly tied the game when a deep Shelly Duncan fly ball bounced off the glove of the outfielder Carson who went up against the wall. Instead of a two run homer, it was an RBI double for Duncan. Fortunately, Clippers lefty Clay Rapada (S, 2) retired Durham's Leslie Anderson on a groundout to second for the final out of the game.

 Salazar (W, 2-2) received the victory for Columbus. Mike Montgomery (L, 4-2) took the loss for the Bulls.

The Clippers and Bulls will wrap up their twin bill later on this evening. Right-hander Boof Bonser (2-6, 5.87 w/ Triple-A Fresno) will make his first career start for Columbus. Durham will counter with righty Merrill Kelly (2-0, 2.50).