Knights and Bulls Split Doubleheader

Charlotte Rallies in Game One; Falls Short in Game Two

FORT MILL, S.C.  - The Charlotte Knights put forth a great effort and were able to manage a split in the day's doubleheader despite a worn out bullpen.  The Knights won the first game of the double header against the Durham Bulls 6-3 and lost the second game 7-4.

In game one, the Knights fell behind 3-0 to Durham after four innings.  The Bulls got on the board in the second on a two run home run from Leslie Anderson.   Despite a strong starting effort from Durham's Alex Torres, who struck out five, the Knights were able to rally by scoring six runs in the 5th inning.

The Knights tied things up on a RBI single from Jim Gallagher. After a base hit from Dayan Vicieo, Charlotte then went ahead on an RBI single off the bat of Dallas McPherson.  The Knights pushed two more across on a 2-RBI double from Lastings Milledge that capped off the inning.

Lucas Harrell improved to 6-3 on the season as he pitched 6.0 innings and Josh Kinney pitched the final inning to earn his ninth save of the year.

In game two, Durham was able to take advantage of five Charlotte relievers and worked 12 walks off the Knights pitchers.

The Knights had a chance to close things out in the 7th inning as they had a one run lead with All-Star reliever Shane Lindsay on the mound.  With the bases loaded and two outs, Lindsay threw a wild pitch on a 0-2 count that allowed Anderson to score and tie the game.

Durham would pull ahead for good in the ninth, putting together a three run inning.  The Bulls would score on a throwing error by Gookie Dawkins and later on an RBI single from Desmond Jennings and a sacrifice fly from Russ Canzler.

Durham's Jake McGee earned the win and Charlotte lefty Wes Whisler took the loss.

The Knights and Bulls continue their series tomorrow at 7:15 PM.  The game will be followed by a special post game fireworks show to start the July 4th weekend.  The Knights will send RHP Joe Bisenius (1-0, 1.35 ERA) to the mound and Durham will counter with RHP Lance Cormier (0-1, 3.14 ERA).