Chiavacci, Curve 'pen blank Phils

June 17, 2006

Ron Chiavacci and two relievers combined on a four-hitter as Altoona blanked visiting Reading, 2-0, on Saturday.

Chiavacci went seven innings, permitting two hits and striking out six without issuing a walk. The 28-year-old right-hander allowed only one runner to reach second base and retired the last 11 batters he faced as he lowered his ERA to 3.00.

Chris Hernandez (5-2) yielded two hits in the eighth, but struck out Michael Bourn with runners on the corners to end the frame and get the win.

Brandon Knight tossed a scoreless ninth to earn his 11th save and complete the Curve's second straight shutout against Reading (28-39).

Altoona (40-27) could not push a run across against starter Daniel Haigwood, but scored twice against Evan Fahrner (1-3) in the eighth. Rafael Alvarez led off with a double and Craig Stansberry tripled one out later. Vic Buttler, who was 0-for-3, lofted a sacrifice fly to left.

Haigwood gave up five hits, walked two and struck out seven over seven innings and is still seeking first win since April 18. The 22-year-old lefty stranded two runners in scoring position and lowered his ERA to 3.55.

Gary Burnham slapped two singles for the Phillies, who lost their third straight. --Christopher Heine/MLB.com