Aces set for massive bout with Tacoma Rainiers

The Reno Aces are set for a six-game series against the Tacoma Rainiers this week that will carry massive implications for the Triple-A West pennant race. The two teams enter tied atop the West Division standings, with this year’s Triple-A West champion being named based on regular-season record on September 28.

The two teams have already met 18 times this season, with Reno winning eight. Tacoma is entering on a six-game winning streak, after sweeping Salt Lake this week. The Rainiers runs have come from a variety of bats. Jantzen Witte, Jose Godoy and Donovan Walton each have over 40 RBIs on the year. Walton’s .308 batting average is second on the team, and Witte’s 51 RBIs lead the team.

Reno’s offense has been given a jolt as of late, with recent call up Alek Thomas having a strong first two weeks with the Aces. In 10 games, the outfield prospect is slashing .341/.426/.537 with eight runs, three doubles, a triple and a homer. Thomas has five walks and five RBIs in the hot start, stealing two bases for good measure.

The Aces pitching staff has been bolstered by Humberto Castellanos establishing himself as the ace of the staff. In 12 starts this season, Castellanos has a 6-1 record with a 4.99 ERA in 57.2 innings of work. The starter has struck out 59 in that stretch, and his consistently put the Aces in a position to win. Reno has earned a win in each of his last eight starts.

The series starts at 6:35 p.m. PT on Thursday. Tickets are available at RenoAces.com or by texting TIXX to 21003. All six games will be available on KPLY 630 AM or RenoAces.com, with Zack Bayrouty on the call. Thursday and Saturday’s games will be broadcast on Nevada Sports Net as well, with all games available on MiLB.tv.