Baseball: Allen's homer not enough for Aces

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif.- Brandon Allen hit his third home run of the series, but that was all the offense Reno would get Sunday afternoon, as the Sacramento River Cats salvaged a series split with a 4-1 win over the Aces at Raley Field.

Allen's sixth-inning solo shot to right was his fourth in seven starts with the Aces this season. It broke up Sacramento's shutout bid, but was not enough to overtake the River Cats' early lead. Reno loaded the bases in each of the first two innings, but was unable to push across a run. The Aces finished 1-for-7 at the plate Sunday with runners in scoring position.

Reno starter Hector Ambriz (3-7) kept his club in the game, but was pinned with the loss. Ambriz worked seven innings, allowing four runs on six hits. He struck out seven and walked one. Jose Marte came on in relief and dealt a perfect eighth inning.

The win went to Sacramento starter Shawn Chacon (3-2), who scattered a run on three hits over six frames.

Sunday's game saw the end of several streaks for Reno. Rusty Ryal finished 0-for-4 and snapped a four-game home run streak. John Hester and Chris Roberson were each held hitless, both breaking 11-game hitting streaks.

The Aces now return home for a quick four-game homestand against the Portland Beavers, Triple-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres. In Monday's opener, LHP Travis Blackley (2-4, 4.77 ERA) makes a spot start for Reno, while the Beavers turn to RHP Will Inman (1-4, 6.15 ERA). First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m. PT.

For tickets, stop by the Aces Ballpark Box Office, call (775) 334-7000 or visit www.RenoAces.com.