Osprey still can't solve Owlz, fall 9-3

OREM, UT - The Missoula Osprey just couldn't overcome the early wave of runs in their opener of a three-game series against the Orem Owlz here at Brent Brown Ballpark.

Orem scored six runs in the first inning and, despite making four errors in the game, cruised to a 9-3 win over the Osprey in front of 2,469 fans.

Missoula (7-7, 28-24) remains in first place in the Pioneer League's North Division despite the loss. Great Falls stays a game back in the second half, as they lost to Casper, 9-1. Billings moved to within a game and a half of first with a 12-5 win over Idaho Falls.

The Osprey had 10 hits - three of them by Raywily Gomez, who also drove in a run, while Paul Goldschmidt and Ender Inciarte added two hits apiece. However, the Osprey could not generate enough offense to come back from the early deficit.

Despite the six-run first, starter Mike Belfiore (1-2) settled down, and worked into the sixth inning for the first time as a starter. Eury De La Rosa also pitched an effective 2 1/3 innings of relief.

The Osprey will play game two of the series on Tuesday at Brent Brown Ballpark. Right-hander Miguel Pena gets the start for the Osprey, while the Owlz have yet to announce a starter.

The Osprey will return home to start a three-game series against the Great Falls Voyagers on Tuesday, August 25. Tickets for any remaining Osprey home game this season can be obtained by calling the Osprey at (406) 543-3300, stopping by the Osprey Team Store at 412 W. Alder, or ordering online at www.missoulaosprey.com.