Frisco RoughRiders 5, Tulsa Drillers 1

by PegNews wire

The RoughRiders and Drillers managed only two runs combined through the first seven innings, but the Frisco offense emerged late coming out on top 5-1. Derek Holland (1-0), who was recently called up from Single-A Bakersfield Wednesday and was making his Double-A debut, went eight innings, striking out 10 and walked just one.

Both teams scored in the first frame as the Drillers plated a run after an error so the run was unearned, but held the 1-0 advantage. Frisco answered with a run in the bottom of the inning with an RBI single by Dustin Majewski, scoring Jose Vallejo. Neither offense made much noise until the eighth as starters Holland and Keith Weiser for Tulsa pitched very well.

To begin the eighth, Frisco led-off with back-to-back singles by Thomas Berkery and Vallejo. Elvis Andrus then advanced on an error on a sacrifice bunt attempt which allowed Berkery to score the go-ahead run and put runners at second and third for the RoughRiders. The next batter, Julio Borbon, also reached on an error to plate Vallejo and Andrus. Majewski followed up with an RBI single to score Borbon and push Frisco’s lead to 5-1. Andrew Laughter came in and threw a 1-2-3 ninth to preserve the victory for the ‘Riders.

Holland finished with eight innings pitched, allowing one run (unearned) on just four hits, walking one and striking out 10. Laughter pitched a scoreless ninth in relief. Weiser earned the no-decision for the Drillers with seven innings, allowing just one run on four hits. Edward Valdez (4-3) took the loss as he allowed four runs in the eighth for Tulsa.

Vallejo led all batters with three hits and two runs in the lead-off spot for Frisco while Majewski had a game-high two RBI. Tulsa hitters managed just four hits on the night, although two of them were doubles. With the win, Frisco snaps a four game losing skid and begin the homestand with a victory.

Frisco and Tulsa will battle again Thursday night in the second game of the three game series. Neftali Feliz (2-1, 2.30) is set to face Tomas Santiago (3-8, 4.45) for the Drillers. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m. from Dr Pepper Ballpark.

Source: Frisco RoughRiders