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Rodgers strong but Blaze take opener

Right-hander keeps game close, double plays hurt offense
April 18, 2013

LANCASTER, Calif. - The JetHawks returned from a seven-game road trip to host the Bakersfield Blaze, the team that entered the day with the worst record in the California League. The Blaze didn't show it.

The visitors beat the JetHawks, 4-2, in the first game of a four game series at The Hangar on Thursday night.

Bakersfield scored four runs against starter Chris Devenski (2-1) in the second inning and that was all the team would need.

Devenski allowed 10 hits over five innings and struck out four with one walk.

Bakersfield started the second inning with five consecutive hits including a triple for Juan Duran. Juan Silva, Yorvan Gonzalez, Dominic D'Anna and Juan Perez all picked up RBIs.

Lancaster scored runs in the fourth and fifth to cut the lead in half.

Andrew Aplin led off the fourth inning with a double and scored on Zach Johnson's base-hit. In the fifth, Carlos Perdomo hit into a double play and Raoul Torrez scored on the play.

The JetHawks grounded into three double plays in the game. Perdomo hit into another one in the eighth inning after a leadoff single by Nolan Fontana.

Brady Rodgers, the "piggy-back" starter, was solid in four scoreless innings of work. The right-hander allowed three hits and struck out four without issuing a walk.   

Blaze starter Jake Johnson (1-0) picked up the win and Kyle McMyne threw a scoreless ninth for the save.

The JetHawks (9-5) and Blaze (4-11) play the second game of the series on Friday night at The Hangar. David Rollins and Tyson Perez will pitch for the JetHawks against Tanner Robles. First pitch is 7:00 pm.

Friday night is Autism Awareness Night at The Hangar. The JetHawks will wear special uniforms that will be auctioned off during the game. The proceeds from the auction benefit the Family Focus Resource Center.

Don't miss a moment of the 2013 season as the JetHawks look to repeat as California League Champions. Season tickets and great ticket packages are available now. To order, call (661) 726-5400 or visit jethawks.com.