RENO, Nev.- Agustin Murillo hit his first home run since April, but Reno's comeback efforts fell short Wednesday night, as the Albuquerque Isotopes downed the Aces 4-2 at Aces Ballpark.
Murillo's home run in the fourth, a solo shot, brought Reno to within a run at 3-2. That would be, though, the last time the Aces would light up the scoreboard. Albuquerque added an insurance run in the seventh on the way to its second-straight win in the series.
Hector Ambriz (6-9) took the loss for Reno, surrendering four runs on eight hits over seven innings of work. Scott Maine came out of the Aces bullpen and was dominant, keeping Albuquerque silent over the final two frames.
Eric Stults (5-2) picked up the victory for the 'Topes, scattering two runs on six hits over six innings of work. Scott Elbert earned a hold before Scott Strickland came on to retire the side in the ninth for his 28th save.
At the plate for Reno, Luke Carlin collected two doubles, while Abraham Nunez tripled and Brandon Allen picked-up a run-scoring single.
The series hits the third leg on Thursday night from Aces Ballpark. RHP Cesar Valdez (6-5, 4.60 ERA) is scheduled to take the ball for Reno, while Albuquerque will counter with RHP Giancarlo Alvarado (11-9, 3.56). First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m. PT.
Tomorrow's game is a Coors Light Thursday Night. For tickets, stop by the Aces Ballpark Box Office, call (775) 334-7000 or visit www.RenoAces.com.
