6/17/07: Chiefs Avoid Sweep With Strong First

On a beautiful Sunday afternoon at Alliance Bank Stadium, the Chiefs didn't take long to show that they didn't want to be swept by Toledo, but finally hung onto a lead against another strong rally by the Mud Hens. Syracuse started off strong as they have every game this series, this time scorching the Mud Hens for five runs in the first inning, led by a Ryan Roberts home run. They then hit four consecutive singles, which include Chad Mottola's 1,000th RBI in his minor league career. After a Jeff Duncan RBI made the game 3-0, catcher Erik Kratz hit a 2 run double to round out the scoring. However, as they have shown all series, Toledo was not intimidated by a multi-run lead.

International League homerun leader, Mike Hessman tore his 19th homer of the year, followed by Jack Hannahan's 5th of the season and second of the series. After that, starter Josh Banks calmed down, getting his 6th win of the season, allowing just those 2 runs and 5 hits in 6 innings pitched. The bullpen made things scary again, as rehabbing reliever Brandon League only retired one, allowing two runners on whom both scored. Ryan Houston was not much better, but did get the Chiefs out of the inning, allowing 2 walks and a hit. Closer Blaine Neal came in and sealed the deal, going two innings, giving up only one walk, to get his seventh save of the year.

Toledo starter Dennis Tankersley earned the loss, only going 1 1/3 innings and giving up five runs before leaving with an undisclosed injury. Syracuse starts a four game series with the Richmond Braves on Monday.

Notes:
Catcher Sal Fasano may apparently be coming back to the Chiefs, after being outrighted on Wednesday, as he is now listed on their official roster.
After speaking with him, I found out infielder John Hattig is sidelined with an injury, answering the questions as to why he has not played.
Infielder Ray Olmedo was pulled from the game in the top of the 9th, which may have been a good strategic move, as it is of concern that the guy with the most energy on the team, seems to be very lackadaisical in the field lately.
Victor Zambrano has reportedly been recalled by the Toronto Blue Jays, ending his rehab.
Jamie Vermilyea was placed on the 7 day DL