The Memphis Redbirds dropped the series opener 8-2 against the Charlotte Knights on Tuesday night at AutoZone Park. The Redbirds tallied 12 hits but were 1-for-12 with runners in scoring position.
Charlotte struck first in the top of the second inning. After Connor Thomas (6-7) loaded the bases, Nick Ciuffo grounded a ball up the middle that Kramer Robertson snared at shortstop but could not connect his throw with Juan Yepez at first. Two runs scored on the single and throwing error and one more crossed on a Mark Payton RBI double to make it 3-0 Knights.
Robertson put Memphis on the board the next half inning with his 9th home run of the season, but Memphis struggled yet again with runners on. John Parke (3-10) earned the win after six innings of one run baseball.
Charlotte added four runs in the ninth, capped off by a two-run shot by Payton. Pedro Pages hit a solo shot in the bottom of the ninth for Memphis.
The Memphis Redbirds (59-58) square off with the Charlotte Knights (48-70) in game two of a six-game series on Wednesday evening at AutoZone Park. RHP Jason Bilous will start for Charlotte while the Memphis starter has yet to be announced. For tickets and more information, fans can call 901-721-6000 or visit www.memphisredbirds.com.
