Indians Bury Bats With A Five-Run First Inning

LOUISVILLE, KY. – The Indianapolis Indians buried the Louisville Bats with five runs in the first inning, including back-to-back home runs from Bligh Madris and T.J. Rivera on Thursday night, 6-2.

The Indians (24-20) jumped out to an early lead in the top of the first inning with a lead-off single from Anthony Alford, followed by an RBI single from Kevin Kramer. Wilmer Difo hit a sacrifice fly to right field to drive in Kramer. Bligh Madris then launched a two-run home run over the right field fence followed by a home run from T.J. Rivera to take a 5-0 lead.

The Bats (16-28) got one back in the bottom of the first frame with a sacrifice fly from Alfredo Rodriguez after loading the bases. Kyle Keller ended the threat by clearing the bases with a strikeout.

Indy extended their lead to 6-1 in the top of the fifth inning with back-to-back doubles from Chris Sharpe and Kevin Kramer.

Louisville scored one more in the bottom of the fifth frame with a home run from Narciso Crook.

Nick Mears (W, 1-1) earned his first win of the season throwing two scoreless innings and only gave up two hits. Michael Mariot (L, 0-2) took the loss for Louisville giving up five runs on six hits in four innings of work.

The Indians and Bats face off again on Friday night with a 7:00 PM start at Louisville Slugger Field. Indy has yet to name a starter and RHP Riley O’Brien (2-2, 4.62) will take the mound for Louisville.