CC Routs RoughRiders
FRISCO, TX - Enrique Hernandez cracked a three-run triple into the gap in left-center, highlighting an explosive first inning for the Hooks who ran roughshod over Frisco 11-0 Saturday night at Dr Pepper Ballpark.
A night which started fast for Corpus Christi (13-9) ended quickly for Riders starter Cody Buckel. Texas' 2012 Minor League Pitcher of the Year failed to record an out. Buckel (0-4) walked three, hit two batters and allowed a single. He was charged with six of the Hooks' seven runs in the first, upping his ERA to 18.00. Buckel has walked 25 against nine strikeouts in nine innings this season.
George Springer made it 8-0 in the second, belting a tape-measure shot off Tyler Tufts. His Texas League leading seventh home run of the season exited the ballpark and landed on the street beyond the right-field fence.
Drew Muren put the Hooks up by nine in the third with an RBI double to left field. Michael Burgess capped a two-hit night with a double of his own two batters later, providing Corpus Christi with its season-best 11th run.
Bobby Doran (3-0) turned in another strong start, scattering four hits and three walks over five innings. The Flower Mound native struck out four and stranded four runners in scoring position.
Nick Tropeano followed up with his third four-inning save, striking out a season-best 7 batters. In three appearances as a "second starter," Tropeano has fanned 17 without issuing a walk.
The Hooks look to clinch the series victory tomorrow afternoon. David Martinez (2-0, 1.53 ERA) and Asher Wojciechowski (2-0, 0.78 ERA) engage Frisco right-hander Neil Ramirez (2-0, 1.86 ERA). First pitch is 4:00.