Indianapolis has Hens' number
6/6/2003The Mud Hens held last-place Indianapolis hitless through the first three innings last night, but the Indians scored four runs in the fourth on their way to a 7-1 victory.
The Mud Hens have lost three in a row to the Indians, who have won five of their last six.
The fourth inning ended a streak of 21 scoreless innings for Mud Hens pitcher Tyler Walker.
Following a single and an error, Indianapolis designated hitter Mark Smith doubled off the left-field wall on a 3-2 fastball, driving in two runs. Pete Zoccolillo followed with a two-run homer.
“Walker lost concentration trying to make up for the error, then the wheels came off,” said Mud Hens manager Larry Parrish.
“They took advantage of their opportunities,” said Toledo first basemen A.J. Hinch. “They broke it open when they had guys on base.”
Hinch accounted for Toledo's only run, knocking a 2-0 fastball over the left-field fence in the fifth.
First basemen Keith Luuloa padded Indianapolis' lead with a three-run homer to left in the sixth to put the Indians up 7-1.
Columbus also lost yesterday, allowing the Mud Hens to stay in second place in the International League's West Division behind the Louisville Bats, who defeated Richmond 2-1.
The Mud Hens will wrap up the series tonight in Indianapolis behind right-hander Chris Mears. Toledo then heads to Pawtucket.
The Mud Hens return to Fifth-Third Field on June 16 to face Scranton.