Columbus wins in extras in Syracuse

Three run eleventh key to Clippers triumph

May 16, 2013

Unlike two nights ago, the Clippers found themselves on the winning side of the scoreboard as they beat the Syracuse Chiefs 4-2 in eleven innings at NBT Bank Stadium.

The Clippers would take an early 1-0 lead on a Cord Phelps RBI single in the top of the third. The Chiefs then tied things at 1-1 in the bottom of the fifth on a Kris Watts RBI sacrifice fly. Righty Carlos Carrasco pitched the first five innings of the game for Columbus. He struck out four and walked one while giving up one run (0 earned) on four hits.

The Clippers had a chance to take a lead in the top of the ninth. With a runner on second and two out, Omir Santos grounded to third. Santos beat it out for infield single, but Matt Carson was tagged out at the plate to end the frame. The Chiefs would go scoreless in the bottom of the ninth so, for the second time in three nights, these two teams went to extra innings.

Columbus had another opportunity to take the lead in the top of the tenth. After singling to begin the frame, Tim Fedroff advanced all the way to third on a sacrifice bunt and a wild pitch. Unfortunately, both Jeremy Hermida and Ezequiel Carrera struck out to end that scoring threat.

In the top of the eleventh, the Clippers were presented with the same situation with Lonnie Chisenhall standing on third with one out. A wild pitch by Michael Crotta allowed Chisenhall to score, giving his club a 2-1 lead. Columbus would later add some insurance in that frame with RBI singles by Juan Diaz and Tim Fedroff.

Despite a solo shot by Chris Marrero in the bottom of the eleventh, Columbus added to the win column with another victory over the Chiefs. Preston Guilmet (W, 1-2) ended up with the win for the Clippers. Michael Crotta (L, 3-4) was hit with the loss for Syracuse.

Columbus concludes its four game series with Syracuse on Friday night. The Clippers will tab right-hander Danny Salazar (0-0, 0.00) as their starter on the mound. The Chiefs will give the ball to righty Ryan Perry (1-3, 7.15). First pitch is scheduled for 7:00 PM.