Leesman, Garcia Lead Knights to 8-2 Win

(Lawrenceville, GA) - Charlie Leesman allowed just one run over seven solid innings, Avisail Garcia launched his first Charlotte home run, and the Charlotte Knights beat the Gwinnett Braves 8-2 on Friday in the finale of their three-game series from Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, GA. The Knights won two of the three games against Gwinnett in the series. 

Charlotte jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead in the first inning thanks to a two-run triple by Travis Ishikawa. The Knights then added two more runs in the top of the second inning on a two-run single from Garcia. 

The Knights led the Braves 4-0 after the first two innings and Leesman went to work. The Cincinnati, OH native was brilliant on the evening - not allowing a run over the first six innings. In all, Leesman (3-1, 3.47) struck-out six batters and allowed just five hits in seven innings for his third win of the year. 

Garcia, who was acquired as part of the Jake Peavy trade from Detroit, went 3-for-4 with a two-run single and a two-run home run -- his sixth International League home run of the season. He also scored two runs to go along with his four RBI game. 

Second baseman Carlos Sanchez also enjoyed a solid day at the plate. Sanchez went 3-for-5 with two runs scored and two RBIs. He also stole his team leading 16th base of the season.

Deunte Heath gave up one run over the final two innings in relief of Leesman. Heath struck-out five batters over the two innings. 

Atlanta Braves outfielder B.J. Upton continued his Major League rehab assignment for Gwinnett. Upton went 1-for-5 with three strikeouts. Charlotte scored seven runs off Gwinnett starter Omar Poveda (5-7, 3.48), who was charged with the loss. 

The Knights will now make the trek to Norfolk, VA and begin a quick two-game series with the Norfolk Tides on Saturday. Game one features RHP Erik Johnson (1-0, 2.45) for the Knights against Norfolk starter Zach Britton (3-4, 4.95). First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m.