Express take Redbirds for a ride

Memphis, TN- The Express put up five runs in the second inning, and despite the Redbirds posting three runs in the third, post four more in the seventh to defeat Memphis 9-3 on Thursday night at AutoZone Park.

"That was a tough one tonight," Memphis manager Ron "Pop" Warner said. "We battled to get within two and we just couldn't get that big hit to get us over the hump."

Memphis hurler Shelby Miller allowed five runs on two hits with four walks while striking out three in three innings to fall to 4-4 on the season.

"Miller didn't command his fastball tonight," Warner said. "He fell into a lot of deep counts and the result was longer innings."

Express starter Zach Jackson improved to 2-5 on the year after pitching six innings and allowing three runs with two strikeouts.

After an hour and forty-four minute rain delay and a scoreless first inning, the Express powered up posting five runs in the second inning, including a Matt Kata grand slam.

The 'Birds battled back to within two runs scoring three in the third inning when Eugenio Velez smacked a three-run double to right field, making the game 5-3 at that point.

In the seventh inning the Express put the game out of reach scoring four runs against Memphis relievers Clay Zavada and Chuckie Fick. Val Majewski led the charge connecting on a two-run double and helping secure the 9-3 win for Round Rock.

The Redbirds and Express conclude their four-game series on Friday, June 1, at 7:05 p.m. (CT) at AZP.

Tomorrow's Probables:
Memphis: LHP Shelby Miller (1-5, 5.76)
Round Rock: LHP Michael Kirkman (4-1, 5.57)