Express Powers Past Chihuahuas

Home runs lifted the Round Rock Express (28-23) over the El Paso Chihuahuas (20-32) by a final score of 10-5.  The contest was the first in a six-game series. 

Sandro Fabian’s first inning lead-off home run set the tone for the Express. 

The Chihuahuas momentarily claimed the lead in the third inning, starting with Nate Mondou’s single, scoring Oscar Mercado, followed by Mathew Batten’s double, bringing home Mason McCoy.  Graham Pauley tallied the inning’s third run for El Paso on a fielder’s choice to second base, plating Mondou. 

The game’s momentum swung back in the Express’ favor in the bottom of the third inning, and for the remainder of the game.  Round Rock put four runs starting with Davis Wendzel fielder’s choice to score Jose Barrero.  A bases-loaded error on Matt Duffy’s shot by El Paso third baseman Eguy Rosario allowed Wendzel, Andrew Knapp and Blaine Crim to cross the plate. 

Wendzel’s solo home run in the fourth inning gave Round Rock a 6-to-3 advantage. 

The Express added another run in the sixth inning on a throwing error by first baseman Mondou on Jonathan Ornelas’ bunt, allowing Dustin Harris to cross the plate. 

The visitors attempted an eighth inning rally on Cal Mitchell’s two run single.   But the home team iced the game in the bottom of the frame on Jose Barrero’s three-run round tripper. 

Adrian Sampson (6-2) earned the win for the Express, allowing three runs (one earned) in five innings on the mound.  He struck out two and allowed no walks. 

Jackson Wolf (1-6) went home with the loss for the Chihuahuas, giving up five runs in 2.2 innings of work.  The struck out one batter and walked two.