RENO, Nev."Despite chopping the lead in half with runs in the fifth and sixth innings, the Aces' efforts for a series split Friday night fell short, as the visiting Sky Sox rolled to a 13-3 victory over Reno at Aces Ballpark.
Reno fell behind early in the first, then trailed 6-0 in the fifth. The Aces rallied for a run in the fifth, then two more in the sixth to pull to within three. But then it was the Sky Sox offense that bounced back to life, pushing across five in the eighth and two more in the ninth to secure the win and a 3-1 series victory.
Aces starter LHP Evan MacLane (0-2) was saddled with the loss, after surrendering six runs on 10 hits over 4.2 innings. MacLane walked one and punched out one for Reno. Out of the bullpen, RHP Abe Woody threw 2.1 scoreless frames before LHP Jon Coutlangus allowed seven earned runs over the game's final two frames.
The win went to Sky Sox starter Alan Johnson (3-0), who scattered three runs on three hits over six innings of work. Johnson walked three and struck out four. Four Colorado Springs relievers combined to hold the Aces scoreless over the final three innings.
Alex Romero led the Reno offense with a two-run home run in the sixth. Brandon Watson singled and has hit safely in all 11 starts this season, and Josh Wilson hit an RBI double in the fifth.
The Aces now hit the road for a quick four-game trip against the Fresno Grizzlies, Triple-A Affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. In game one, Aces righty Tony Barnette (0-1, 6.75 ERA) gets the ball. He'll take on Fresno right-hander Kevin Pucetas (0-1, 3.94 ERA). First pitch from Chukchansi Park is set for 7:05 p.m. and can be heard live on Fox Sports Radio 1450.
Reno will return to Aces Ballpark on April 30 to kick-off a four-game homestand against the Portland Beavers, Triple-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres. For tickets, stop by the Aces Ballpark Box Office or call (775) 334-700. Visit RenoAces.com for update news.
