Clippers win third straight
The game was scoreless until the fifth inning when the Knights jumped on Clippers pitcher Frank Herrmann for four runs. Singles by Andy Phillips and Donny Lucy were followed by a three run home run by Brent Lillibridge. Another run was added after a double by Gordon Beckham and an RBI single by Dewayne Wise.
Chris Gimenez got the Clippers first hit in the fifth against Jose Contreras, smacking a double. After Andy Marte walked, Clippers newcomer Nuiman Romero blooped a double down the left field line plating Gimenez and Marte. Charlotte Manager Chris Chambliss was ejected after arguing that Romero was tagged out at second. Michael Brantley then stroked a two run homer tying the score 4-4. Knights second baseman Andy Phillips was tossed after Brantley's homer, still disputing the previous play.
Mickey Hall slammed his first home run in the seventh, a solo blast to left. Brantley reached, stole second and scored on a single by Josh Barfield to put the Clippers up 6-4.
Vinnie Chulk then pitched a scoreless ninth to pick up the save. Rich Rundles earned the win after two scoreless innings. Steven Wright, making his first start delivered three innings of shutout work.
The Clippers host Norfolk Friday at 7:05pm. Newly acquired Kenny Ray will start for Columbus against David Pauley for the Tides.