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The Altoona Curve offense erupted for nine runs in the first two innings en route to a 9-5 victory over the Akron RubberDucks Wednesday night in front of 2,832 at PNG Field.
Nine different hitters came to the plate as the Curve scored four in the first inning after starter Dominic Pipkin allowed three runs in ª innings of work.
Bouncing back
After Altoona got the lead, Curve pitchers retired 15 RubberDucks in a row.
"It was good that they were efficient," Jaycob Deese was efficient, Jarod Bayless was efficient. You know, especially with a doubleheader tomorrow, being able to hold back some guys, and I think that's the big key," Curve manager Andy Fox said.
The Altoona offense wasn't done though as it put together a five-run second inning to take a commanding 9-3 lead after two innings.
"They kept with their approach, and we took advantage of situations and were able to drive in runs," Fox said. "It's a good win. Bullpen did a great job."
Four different Curve hitters scored two runs a piece, including third baseman Murf Gray who had a single and RBI double which put Altoona up 5-3.
"The biggest thing was just staying patient and knowing that the game wasn't over in the first," Gray said. "Three runs right away, early in the season or whatever it is, you kind of get down on yourself. But I feel like we just held our composure very well and came back and scored some runs."
The scoring and hitting for the Curve stopped abruptly after the second inning. Akron managed to tack on a run in both the eighth and ninth innings, but it wasn't enough to overcome the deficit.
"You always want to try to add on, and they were able to shut us down," Fox said. "You got to play nine innings, but also, we were able to get nine and keep them at bay."
Moss is boss
For the second straight night, Callan Moss came through in a big way with runners on. His three-run double in the second inning pushed the Altoona lead to 8-3 and was a catalyst in the offensive output.
"I feel like our lineup is pretty stacked, but I mean to hit a double and then have him come back and score you, it's just a really big deal because you got guys behind you that are going to either pick you up when you need it or score you in whatever you need it," Gray said.
Award season
Prior to the game, visiting clubhouse manager Todd Parker was presented with the "Home Run Service" award for his body of work in his position. It is awarded to those who exemplify a positive impact and create a welcoming experience.
Next stop
Tonight: Akron at Altoona, Game 1, 4:15 p.m.; Game 2 will follow
Pitching matchups: Ducks LHP Kaden Favors vs. Curve RHP Po-Yu Chen, Game 1; Ducks LHP Franklin Gomez vs. Curve RHP Peyton Stumbo, Game 2