NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Memphis Redbirds (11-16) were able to rally in the top of the ninth to tie the game 2-2 on a two-run homer by David Washington but it was not enough as the Nashville Sounds (14-16) were able to score in the bottom of the ninth to prevail 3-2.
Memphis has now played 19 one- and two-run games in its 27 games this season, tied with Nashville for second most behind Colorado Springs.
Jeremy Hefner had his longest outing of the season throwing seven complete innings. He gave up just two runs on five hits and struck out five. Hefner’s last seven-inning start was on July 12, 2013, when he was a pitcher for the New York Mets.
Heath Wyatt had an impressive performance in relief, throwing twelve pitches and recording two strikeouts in the eighth inning to keep the Redbirds within two runs of Nashville heading into the ninth.
For the majority of the game the Redbirds struggled offensively but were able to get seven hits on the day. Washington went 2-for-4 hitting his first home run as a Redbird. Jesse Jenner made his Redbirds’ debut behind the plate and was able to hit a single in his first at bat of the game.
Nashville’s Jake Smolinski went 2-for-3 on the day and was the game winning run for the Sounds in the ninth. Smolinski also stole second during Andrew Lambo’s final at bat to put himself in scoring position when Lambo hit his single to right field that won the game for Nashville.
Memphis and Nashville play their final game of the series Monday night at 6:35 (CT). After Monday’s series finale, the Redbirds head to Omaha for four games Tuesday–Friday before returning to AutoZone Park on Saturday, May 14 to play eight games in nine days. May 14 is Star Wars Night, Adam Wainwright Bobblehead giveaway and postgame fireworks.
The upcoming homestand also features Prairie Farms Ice Cream Sunday (May 15), two Education Days on May 16 and 17, King Cotton $1 Hot Dog Day (May 17), College Night (May 19), Silky’s hat giveaway (May 20), replica Cardinals Yadier Molina jersey giveaway and postgame fireworks (May 21) and another Prairie Farms Ice Cream Sunday (May 22).
The Redbirds are offering a Mother’s Day celebration ticket package, where fans will receive four Field Box tickets to the game on Saturday, May 21, four food vouchers for a hot dog and soft drink, a $25 gift card to Seasons 52 restaurant and the opportunity for a pregame family picture on the field, all for $89. The game also features postgame fireworks.
