The Clippers backed a stellar outing by Daisuke Matsuzaka with plenty of run support as Columbus defeated Louisville 9-3 at Huntington Park.
The Bats were the first team to crack the scoreboard when Ryan Ludwick knocked in Billy Hamilton with an RB single in the third. The Clippers tied the game 1-1 in the bottom of the fifth on a Justin Toole fielder’s choice. The next batter, Roberto Perez, lined a base hit into left field, plating two runs and giving Columbus a 3-1 lead. Perez would later score on a Tim Fedroff fielder’s choice during the frame.
It was another outstanding start for Daisuke Matsuzaka. For the sixth time in his last seven outings, Matsuzaka pitched into the seventh inning, limiting Louisville to one run on two hits in those seven frames while striking out five.
Jeremy Hermida gave Columbus some insurance with a two run homer in the bottom of the sixth. Chun Chen would play some long ball as well, crushing a two run shot into the left field bleachers in the seventh. Perez would also drive home another run with an RBI sacrifice fly in the bottom of the eighth.
The Bats would tally two runs in the eighth on a two run single by Felix Perez, but it was not enough as the Clippers got the win in the end. Matsuzaka (W, 5-6) was awarded the win for Columbus. Chad Rogers (L, 4-3) took the loss for Louisville.
The Bats and the Clippers will face off against one another again on Friday night. Columbus will have righty Carlos Carrasco (3-1, 3.14) get the start on the mound. Louisville will counter with right-hander Greg Reynolds (11-2, 2.41). First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 PM.
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