Aviators Outslug Express in 9-4 Victory

The Las Vegas Aviators defeated the Round Rock Express by a score of 9-4, splitting the six-game series at three games apiece. The Aviators’ explosive first inning proved to be the difference-maker in the high-scoring contest.

The Aviators offense erupted in the top of the first inning, scoring seven runs on five hits and four walks. Logan Davidson and Denzel Clarke each drove in two runs with doubles, while Adrian Houser suffered the loss. Willie MacIver added an RBI single, and Darell Hernaiz drew a bases-loaded walk, giving Las Vegas a commanding 7-0 lead early in the game.

Express starting pitcher Adrian House was pulled after recording just one out, allowing seven runs. Aviators starter Gunnar Hoglund earned the win, pitching five innings and allowing no runs on three hits.

Round Rock attempted to mount a comeback in the later innings. Blaine Crim hit a solo home run in the sixth, followed by another solo shot from Cody Freeman, narrowing the deficit to 7-2.

CJ Alexander of Las Vegas extended the lead to 9-2 with a long home run in the seventh. Clarke tripled and scored on MacIver’s groundout. Ezequiel Duran homered for the Express in the eighth, and Round Rock added a final run in the ninth on a wild pitch, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Aviators’ early surge.