RENO, Nev."The Aces hopped out to a quick 5-0 lead in the first inning Wednesday, but the Colorado Springs Sky Sox proceeded to score 16 times over the next eight innings to run away with a 16-8 victory over Reno at Aces Ballpark.
The Aces offense came out firing from the get-go, pushing five runs across in the first. Reno used RBI doubles for Ruben Gotay and Agustin Murillo, a run-scoring ground ball for John Hester and a two-run homer to right off the bat of Chris Roberson to jump out to the early advantage.
But from there the Colorado Springs offense came alive in a big way. The Sky Sox scored once in the second, added five in the third, four in the fourth and one in the fifth to take a commanding 11"5 lead. But Colorado Springs had a little more in the tank, pushing across two in the seventh and three in the ninth to put Reno away for good.
The Aces did manage to threaten in the eighth, though. Reno scored three times in the inning before loading the bases with one out and three-hitter Alex Romero at the plate. Romero grounded sharply to the right side, though, prompting a 4-6-3 double play that quelled the threat.
Reno starter Travis Blackley (0-2) was saddled with the loss, surrendering seven runs"five earned"on eight hits over three innings of work. Blackley walked just one while striking out five. In relief, Abe Woody allowed four runs in two innings, Billy Buckner surrendered two runs in two innings and Josh Ellis gave up three runs in an inning of work. The lone reliever to come out unscathed was Jose Marte, who dished a perfect eighth inning.
The win went to Colorado Springs starter Jason Hirsh (2-1), who scattered five runs on six hits over six innings of work. Hirsh walked four and struck out four. A pair of Sky Sox relievers bent but didn't break, combining to allow three runs on six hits over three innings.
The series rolls into the third leg on Thursday night at Aces Ballpark. Reno gives the nod to right-hander Cesar Valdez (1-1, 7.88 ERA), while the Sky Sox counter with righty Brandon Hynick (1-1, 6.10 ERA). First pitch is set for 6:05 p.m.
Thursday is the first Coors Light Thursday Night of the season at Aces Ballpark. Beer will be available for $2 throughout the ballpark from the time the gates open until the start of the third inning. Live radio remotes and other special promotions and themes will be a part of every Coors Light Thursday Night.
Also tomorrow, the Aces will hand out fleece blankets to the first 2,500 fans through the turnstiles. Call (775) 334-7000 or visit RenoAces.com for more details.
