Mud Hens secure sixth win of the season

The Toledo Mud Hens remain in first place in the International League West division. After a 7-5 victory Friday night over the Columbus Clippers (4-5) in game three of the series, the Hens improve to 6-3 on the season.

Daniel Fields kept the train rolling for Toledo going 4-for-5 at the plate after both teams produced in the first two innings. Fields produced one double, one triple and two RBI over his nine innings of play. Jefry Marte made contact in the box, batting 2-for-3 with one double, one triple and one RBI.

As four runs were scored in the fourth inning alone for the Hens, Dixon Machado, Tyler Collins and Xavier Avery all synced up to drive home one RBI each. 

The eight hits from Columbus had zero impact on the momentum of the Toledo pitching core. The starting right hander, Thad Weber, with assistance from Josh Zeid, Rafael Dolis and Alex Wilson teamed up for a total of 12 strikeouts. Weber, being awarded his second win of the season (2-0), retired six of the 12 batters over five innings. While Wilson worked for his third save of the season. 

Even with miscues by Weber and Avery, the Hens defense was able to strand eight Clippers on base. 

Toledo will take their talent to Columbus on Saturday and Sunday for a two-game series. LHP Mike Belfiore will be leading off for the Hens on Saturday, entering the game at 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA. Opening pitch is slated at 6:05 p.m.