Columbus triumphs over Bats 4-1

 A stellar injury rehab start by lefty Scott Kazmir allowed Columbus to defeat Louisville 4-1 on Dime-a-Dog night at Huntington Park.

The Clippers would get on the board in the bottom of the fourth thanks to some sloppy Louisville defense. With runners on second and one out, Juan Diaz grounded to the shortstop. The Bats got an out at second, but the Louisville infield was not able to complete the inning ending double play as the ball got away from Bats first baseman Neftali Soto. It allowed Matt Carson to score on the play, giving Columbus a 1-0 lead.

The Bats would tie the game at 1-1 in the top of the fifth. It could have been worse had not been for a 6-4-3 double play turned by the Columbus infield during the frame. The Clippers would have a response, however, in the bottom half of the frame. With a runner on first, Luis Hernandez singled to center. The ball got away from Bats center fielder Billy Hamilton, allowing Clippers catcher Roberto Perez to score all the way from first, giving Columbus the lead once again 2-1.

The Clippers would then add to their lead in the bottom of the sixth on a two run homer by shortstop Juan Diaz.

Left-hander Scott Kazmir (W, 1-0) made a rehab start for Columbus as he continues to recover from a rib injury. He went five innings, giving up one run on five hits while striking out five. Nick Christiani (L, 0-2) took the loss for Louisville. Carlos Carrasco (S, 1) pitched the remaining four innings.

Columbus will continue it three game set with the Bats on a City Barbeque Buck-a-Bone night on Tuesday. Right-hander Joe Martinez (0-1, 1.54) will get the start on the mound for the Clippers. Louisville will counter with righty Greg Reynolds (1-0, 2.45). First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 PM.