Memphis Drops Series Opener Against New Orleans
METAIRIE, Louisiana - Memphis never got the ball rolling offensively and fell 6-1 to New Orleans in the series opener on Thursday night at Zephyr Field.
New Orleans' hurler Anthony DeSclafani (W, 3-3) held the 'Birds to one run on four hits through six innings of work. The right-hander outmatched lefty Jonathan Cornelius, who took his second loss in as many starts at the Triple-A level. Cornelius tied a career-high by allowing three homers, giving up six runs in total.
Kyle Jensen started his big night at the plate with a two-run single in the first. The outfielder then started the three-run fourth for the Zephyrs by launching his 27th long ball of the season. Three batters later, catcher Rob Brantly blasted a two-run shot to put the home team up 5-1.
The Redbirds clawed their way on the scoreboard in the fourth. Stephen Piscotty notched a one-out single and Pete Kozma followed two batters later with a run-scoring double. It was the infielder's 20th RBI during the month of August, but the offense failed to pick up any momentum.
The Zephyrs got their other run in the 6th when Juan Diaz hit a home run. The solo shot gave New Orleans a five-run advantage which proved to be plenty of run support.
Tommy Pham did reach base twice via a pair of walks. He proceeded to steal his team-leading 17th and 18th bases of the season, but was left stranded both times. Memphis finished just 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position.
The two teams are back at it tomorrow with a 7:00 pm contest. Memphis has Marco Gonzales (4-1, 3.35) listed as their probable starter and New Orleans is slated to counter with lefty Brian Flynn.