Tom’s big day powers River Cats past Aces

West Sacramento, Calif. — After an impressive June, left fielder Ka’ai Tom kicked off July with a strong all-around day, as one crooked number lifted the Sacramento River Cats (33-43) to a 7-4 win vs the Reno Aces (39-37) on Orange Friday.

Tom, who hit .290 with 14 runs, six doubles, five home runs, and 18 RBIs in June, did a little of everything. The left fielder closed out the top half of the third inning by throwing out designated hitter Juan Graterol, who was trying to tag up and score on a fly out.

The 28-year-old then gave Sacramento the lead in the bottom of the fourth inning when he unloaded on a 97.7 MPH fastball, lining a three-run home run 419 feet (103.9 MPH exit velocity).

Two batters prior to Tom’s go-ahead blast, first baseman Jason Krizan got Sacramento on the board with a bases-loaded two-run double.

Designated hitter Yermín Mercedes gave Sacramento some much-needed breathing room in the bottom of the eighth when he lined a two-run shot just over the left field wall, his first home run since joining Sacramento.

Right-hander Cody Carroll opened the River Cats’ bullpen game, striking out two in 2.0 perfect innings.

The River Cats have yet to name their starter for Saturday. The TBD will take on righty Corbin Martin (4-3, 5.79) at 6:37 p.m. (PT). Watch Johnny Doskow and Steve Sax call the game on CW-31, or listen to Greg Wong online at rivercats.com or on the MiLB First Pitch app.

Additional Notes

• Right fielder Willie Calhoun continues to swing a hot bat, going 2-for-4 with a run on Friday. Through six games for Sacramento, Calhoun is 10-for-25 (.400) with three runs, two doubles, a home run, and six RBIs.
• Rehabbing lefty José Álvarez (1-0) struck out one while allowing a run on three hits in an inning of work.