Express Skid Continues in 2-1 Walkoff Defeat to Redbirds

MEMPHIS, Tennessee - The Memphis Redbirds (58-33) spoiled a quality start by Round Rock Express (41-51)RHP Nick Martínez on Friday night, collecting a 2-1 walkoff win at AutoZone Park. The Express have now dropped eight straight games against the Redbirds.
E-Train reliever RHP R.J. Alvarez (0-2, 5.70) suffered the loss after allowing the game-winning run on two hits while recording just one out. Memphis RHP Josh Lucas (7-0, 3.65) picked up the win by virtue of throwing a perfect ninth inning of relief.
Martinez dealt from his perch atop the mound, limiting the Redbirds to just three baserunners on the night. CF Adolis Garcia broke up the righty's no-hit bid with a one-out double in the fifth inning. Martinez finished with just one hit and two walks allowed in six shutout innings.
The Express jumped on the board in the third as 2B Doug Bernier worked a two-out walk before DH Brett Nicholas followed up with a single. CF Jared Hoying then put Round Rock on top with a double. However, Memphis pitchers combined to face just one over the minimum over the next six innings while their team's offense went to work.
Round Rock LHP Joely Rodríguez surrendered a game-tying home run to Memphis 2B Alex Mejia on his first pitch of the eighth inning. After recovering to allow a pair of outs, Alvarez entered to continue the game. The righty gave up a leadoff double to 1B Rangel Ravelo to open the ninth inning before C Carson Kelly dropped a single into center field to score the game-winning run.
Round Rock looks to bounce back in game three on Saturday night. Express RHP Clayton Blackburn (3-1, 4.63) is set to take the mound opposite Redbirds RHP Luke Weaver (7-1, 1.93). First pitch at AutoZone Park is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.  
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