2010 Toledo Mud Hens Schedule and Results

Article published May 29, 2010
Buffalo turns back Mud Hens

BUFFALO - The Toledo Mud Hens fell behind Buffalo early and, despite two late home runs, dropped a 7-3 decision to the Bisons here last night.

Toledo was off to a promising start. Scott Sizemore doubled to open the first inning and went to third on a groundout by Maxwell Leon. Ryan Strieby hit a grounder to third, but Sizemore was thrown out at the plate by third baseman Mike Hessman. Jeff Frazier then walked, but Casper Wells was called out on strikes.

Mike Jacobs' three-run home run with two outs in the third gave the Bisons a lead they never relinquished.

Toledo scored its first run with two outs in the fourth when Will Rhymes doubled home Frazier.

The Hens got their final runs of the game in the sixth when Strieby homered (No. 4) to open the inning and Wells hit a home run (No. 6) one batter later.

Alfredo Figaro started on the mound for Toledo and gave up the first five runs. Brendan Wise replaced Figaro in the fifth and pitch 22/3 scoreless innings. Josh Rainwater pitched the ninth and gave up Buffalo's last two runs.

Article published May 29, 2010
Hens win home run battle with Bison

BUFFALO — The Mud Hens hit three home runs to claim a 5-4 victory over Buffalo at Coca-Cola Field Saturday.

Max Leon, Jeff Frazier, and Casper Wells all went deep to help Toledo snap a two-game losing streak.

Leon got the Hens on the board in the opening inning by hitting his first homer of the season, a long fly that just curled inside the right-field foul pole.

The Bisons tied the game in the bottom of the first as the first three batters singled off Toledo starter Enrique Gonzalez to load the bases with none out. Gonzalez got Mike Hessman to hit into a double play that scored a run but blunted the rally.

The Hens retook the lead in the third as Deik Scram singled, stole second, and scored on an single by Scott Sizemore. After a walk, Danny Worth lined a single to bring home Sizemore.

In the bottom of the third Hessman lined his International League-leading 17th home run of the season. The two-run home run, Hessman’s third in three games against his former team, tied the game at 3.

Toledo took the lead for good in the bottom of the sixth when Frazier slammed his team-leading seventh home run of the season.

The Mud Hens added an insurance run in the ninth when Wells tied Frazier for the team lead by pounding a home run to center.

That run proved to be crucial when the Bisons’ Andy Green led off the bottom of the ninth by slamming a home run, his sixth third year, off reliever Jay Sborz.

But the right-hander was able to retire the next three Buffalo batters without incident to record his team-leading 10th save of the season.

Gonzalez (4-4) won his third straight start, allowing nine hits but only three runs in 62/3 innings.

Hens power up, edge Buffalo 5-4
By David Schoenholtz
05/29/2010 3:47 PM ET

(Buffalo, NY) - The Toledo Mud Hens used three home runs to win for the first time in three tries against the Buffalo Bisons, by the score of 5-4 on Saturday afternoon at Coca-Cola Field.

Max Leon put the Hens on the board with a first-inning home run - his first of the year - off Buffalo starter Tobi Stoner (3-5).

Buffalo tied the game in the bottom of the first. After the first three Bisons singled to load the bases, former Mud Hen Mike Hessman grounded into a 6-4-3 double play as Jesus Feliciano scored.

In the top of the third, Deik Scram singled, stole second, and scored on an RBI single by Scott Sizemore. After Leon walked, Danny Worth lined a single to right-center to make it a 3-1 lead for Toledo.

In the bottom of the inning, Buffalo put two on with none out. Enrique Gonzalez (4-4) induced a double play off the bat of Daniel Murphy, but Hessman crushed his league-leading 17th home run over the wall in left-center field to tie the game at 3-3.

Andy Green led off the bottom of the fourth with a double down the left-field line, but was stranded at third to end the inning.

Stoner had retired 10 in a row when Jeff Frazier hit a two-out home run in the top of the sixth to give the Mud Hens a 4-3 advantage. After a Casper Wells single, Stoner was pulled in favor of Michael O'Connor, who got Will Rhymes to ground out to end the rally.

Daniel Schlereth relieved Gonzalez with two outs in the seventh, and after he did his job, Jay Sborz came on with two down in the bottom of eighth. Sborz walked Hessman and Mike Jacobs followed with a long fly ball to the warning track in right field, but Deik Scram made the catch for the third out of the inning.

Toledo added an insurance run in the top of the ninth on Wells's seventh home run of the season. The run proved valuable, as Green led off the bottom of the ninth with a solo shot of his own. The next three hitters went down as Buffalo saw its two-game losing streak come to an end.

Gonzalez earned the win, and Stoner took the loss for the Bisons. Sborz picked up his 10th save.

Toledo moves to 27-22, while Buffalo falls to 29-20.

The Mud Hens wrap up their series with the Bisons on Sunday at 1:05 p.m. The Hens return to Toledo on May 31st to host Lehigh Valley in a 5:00 p.m. Memorial Day game. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Max Leon hit his first home run of the season off Buffalo starter Tobi Stoner in the first inning.
* Ryan Strieby struck out four times.
* Enrique Gonzalez has won his last three starts.
* Buffalo's Mike Hessman hit his third home run of the series against his former team and leads the International League with 17 homers and 53 RBIs.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Mud Hens outslug Buffalo 8-7
By David Schoenholtz
05/30/2010 4:46 PM ET

(Buffalo, NY) - In a game that featured five home runs and 10 extra-base hits overall, the Toledo Mud Hens came out on top, defeating the Buffalo Bisons, 8-7 on Sunday afternoon at Coca-Cola Field.

The Hens batted around in the top of the second against Buffalo starter Dylan Owen (1-1). Jeff Frazier and Casper Wells hit back-to-back home runs to start the inning, and Max St-Pierre and Scott Sizemore contributed RBI singles to push the Mud Hen lead to 4-0.

The Bison bats were quiet until the bottom of the fifth, when Daniel Murphy brought Buffalo back within a run with a three-run homer, chasing Toledo's Ryan Ketchner one out shy of qualifying for the win.

Michael O'Connor relieved Owen in the sixth, but was not effective, surrendering the third Toledo homer of the game - this time to Brent Dlugach. A walk to Deik Scram, a double by Max St-Pierre and a walk to Scott Sizemore loaded the bases and brought an end to O'Connor's short outing. Max Leon hit a sacrifice fly off new pitcher Bobby Parnell to make it a 6-3 game, and the Mud Hens tacked on two more runs in the inning on consecutive errors by Murphy and Justin Turner.

The Bisons responded in the bottom of the inning against Scot Drucker. Mike Jacobs led off with a double and scored on a two-run homer by Mike Cervenak. One out later, Drucker gave up a double to Josh Thole, hit Ruben Tejada, and was pulled after his final batter, Jesus Feliciano, singled to load the bases. Brendan Wise came in and gave up an RBI single to Murphy but limited the damage as Toledo held on to an 8-7 lead.

Buffalo put two on with one out in the bottom of the eighth, but Wise got Turner to ground into an inning-ending double play to end the threat.

Casey Fien retired the Bisons in order in the bottom of the ninth to record his third save.

Wise earned the win with 2.2 innings of scoreless relief, and Owen took the loss for Buffalo.

Toledo improves to 28-22, while the loss drops Buffalo to 29-21.

The Hens return to Toledo on Monday to host Lehigh Valley in a 5:00 p.m. Memorial Day game. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Jeff Frazier and Casper Wells hit back-to-back home runs off Buffalo starter Dylan Owen in the second inning.

* Ryan Strieby struck out in his first two at-bats today and had struck out in seven consecutive times to the plate until flying out in the top of the fifth.

* Buffalo's Jesus Feliciano went 5-5 and had 13 hits in 19 at-bats in the four-game series.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hens-Pigs postponed; doubleheader Tuesday
05/31/2010 7:06 PM ET

Toledo, OH - Monday night's game between Toledo and Lehigh Valley was postponed due to rain.

The teams will play a double-header Tuesday starting at 5:30 p.m. The second game will begin approximately 30 minutes following the conclusion of the first game. Both games will be seven innings.

Tickets from Monday's game can be exchanged for any regular season game for the 2010 season (based on availability). Upcoming Game
Tickets

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Toledo wins Game 2 of its double-header, 3-0, with Lehigh Valley to sweep the double-header
By Kyle Rowland
06/01/2010 9:37 PM ET

TOLEDO, OH - The Toledo Mud Hens won Game 2 of their double-header with Lehigh Valley, 3-0, to sweep the two games. Toledo limited the IronPigs to three hits in the second game. The Hens have now won eight straight at Fifth Third Field, a ballpark record.

Unlike Game 1, Toledo got on the board quickly with two runs in the bottom of the first. Scott Sizemore led off the game with a single and advanced to second on a passed ball. Will Rhymes put him on third with a sacrifice bunt. Danny Worth then came through with an RBI single. Following a Jeff Frazier double to the gap, it was 2-0 Hens.

Brian Mazone (3-6) would retire 12 straight Hens until Ben Guez hit a towering solo home run to left-center in the fifth inning. That put Toledo up by the final margin, 3-0.

L.J. Gagnier (2-2) was superb in his five innings of work. He allowed just three hits, striking out six and walking one.

Jay Sborz came on in the seventh to collect his 11th save of the season, third-best in the International League. Casper Wells made a remarkable diving catch in right field in the seventh inning and completed the double play at first base with a great throw.

The Mud Hens are now 30-22 on the season, while Lehigh Valley falls 18-33.

Toledo and Lehigh Valley continue their series Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. It is the final School Day game of the season. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score | Video Highlights

Game Notes

* Ben Guez hit his second HR of the season.

* Scott Sizemore extended his hitting streak to nine games,
tying the most for a Hens this season.

* Toledo has won eight consecutive home games.

* Jay Sborz recorded his 11th save, third-best in the IL.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hens take Game 1 of double-header 5-3 on Sizemore homer
By Kyle Rowland
06/01/2010 6:06 PM ET

TOLEDO, OH - The Toledo Mud Hens were winners in dramatic fashion of Game 1 of a double-header. The Hens scored four unearned runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to win 5-3. The climax was a two-run walk-off home run by Scott Sizemore.

It is the first walk-off homer for the Hens since June 11, 2008 when Freddy Guzman hit a game winner against the Indianapolis Indians.

The loss extends Lehigh Valley's losing streak to five games. By rule, the game was seven innings.

Toledo starter Ruddy Lugo had a no-decision going 5.1 innings, striking out two and walking three. He allowed just three hits and only one of his three runs given up was earned.

Lehigh Valley got on the board first with back-to-back doubles by Neil Sellers and Melvin Dorta to take a 1-0 lead in the top of the second.

Toledo tied it in the fifth on a solo home run by Brent Dlugach. It would be short lived, though.

The IronPigs retook the lead n the top of the sixth with two unearned runs. With one out, Lugo walked consecutive batters before being relieved by Casey Fien. With runners on first and second, Lehigh Valley pulled off a double steal. Robinzon Diaz threw to third base, but Brent Dugach couldn't handle the throw as it went into left field, allowing a run to score. The IronPigs scored their second run on a passed ball to take a 3-1 lead.

The Hens had runners on first and second in the ninth via an error and walk. Unfortunately, there were two outs. It didn't matter to pinch hitter Will Rhymes, though, as he hit a two-RBI double to tie the game. In stepped Scott Sizemore who crushed a Scott Mathieson home run to left field for the 5-3 win.

Toledo and Lehigh Valley play Game 2 of their double-header Tuesday night. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score | Video Highlights

Game Notes

* First pitch temperature was 81 degrees.

* This is the first double-header the Hens have played in this season. They finished a suspended game and followed it with a seven-inning game May 4.

* In the middle innings, Lugo retired eight consecutive batters and Carpenter retired seven straight.

* Brent Dlugach hit his fifth HR of the season.

* Lugo's line: 5.1 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 2 K

* Sizemore's HR was his first of the season.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hens give up 16 hits, lose to IronPigs
By David Schoenholtz
06/02/2010 2:43 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens surrendered 16 hits on their way to falling to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, 11-6 on Wednesday morning at Fifth Third Field.

The IronPigs got on the board in the top of the first, as John Mayberry Jr., Andy Tracy, and Cody Ransom hit consecutive two-out singles. Neil Sellers then hit his first home run of the season to make it a 4-0 game before Brandon Duckworth threw a pitch.

The Mud Hens responded in the bottom of the inning with three runs of their own. Scott Sizemore singled, Will Rhymes walked, and Danny Worth hit a hard ground ball off third baseman Cody Ransom's glove that was ruled a hit, scoring Sizemore. After Jeff Frazier walked to load the bases, Casper Wells lined a single to center field to plate two more runs. Duckworth retired the next three Hen hitters to end the rally.

Lehigh Valley knocked Alfredo Figaro (4-3) out of the game in the top of the second. Dane Sardinha was hit by a pitch, and after Brian Bocock struck out and Rich Thompson popped out to shortstop, the Pigs got consecutive singles by Chris Duffy, Mayberry, and Tracy, and Figaro's day was done. Josh Rainwater came in and allowed two hits and hit a batter as the IronPigs pushed their lead to 9-3.

Toledo scored three more runs - on four hits and a sacrifice fly - to chase Duckworth in the bottom of the third, but Ryan Vogelsong (2-2) struck out Sizemore looking to end the inning.

Mayberry hit a two-run home run - his ninth of the season - off Scot Drucker in the top of the sixth to extend the IronPigs' lead to 11-6.

Alex Concepcion took over on the mound for the Pigs in the sixth and gave up a pair of two-out singles to Worth and Frazier, but got Wells to fly out to end the threat.

The Hens loaded the bases with none out in the bottom of the eighth against Oscar Villareal, but failed to score as Worth struck out and Frazier grounded into an inning-ending double play.

Vogelsong earned the win with 2.1 innings of scoreless relief, and Figaro took the loss for Toledo.

The IronPigs improve to 19-33, while the Mud Hens fall to 30-23.

The Mud Hens wrap up their series with Lehigh Valley on Thursday night at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score | Video Highlights

Game Notes

* Attendance: 9,333

* Scott Sizemore's first-inning single extended his hitting streak to 10 games, the longest by a Mud Hen this season.

* Lehigh Valley's Neil Sellers hit his first home run of the season.

* The Mud Hens' all-time School Day record is 23-4.

* Toledo's eight-game home winning streak came to an end.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hens drop finale to IronPigs 3-1
By David Schoenholtz
06/03/2010 9:57 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens lost the final game of their homestand, 3-1 to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, on Thursday night at Fifth Third Field.

Toledo got three hits in the first inning off former Mud Hen Nate Bump (5-3), but failed to score thanks to Bump's pickoff of Scott Sizemore at first base.

The Hens left two runners on in each of the first three inning, and nine runners overall.

Enrique Gonzalez (4-5) pitched very well, allowing two runs on only four hits in seven innings of work, striking out eight and walking two. Unfortunately for him, the Toledo offense could not get the timely hit when needed.

The IronPigs got on the board in the top of the third on a home run by Paul Hoover.

The Mud Hens finally plated a run in the bottom of the fourth. After Brent Dlugach grounded out to open the frame, Ryan Strieby singled and moved to third on a Robinzon Diaz double. Sizemore then hit a sacrifice fly to tie the game at 1-1.

Lehigh Valley's Rich Thompson hit a solo home run in the sixth to re-take the lead, and that was all the scoring against Gonzalez.

With one out in the top of the ninth, Casey Fien surrendered Cody Ransom's 12th home run of the year to extend the IronPigs' lead to 3-1.

The Hens brought the tying run to the plate in the bottom of the ninth against Scott Mathieson, but Sizemore was called out on strikes to end the game.

Bump earned the win, and Gonzalez took the loss for Toledo. Mathieson picked up his ninth save.

The IronPigs improve to 20-33, while the Mud Hens fall to 30-24.

The Mud Hens head out on the road for a four-game series with the Rochester Red Wings followed by a four-game set at Lehigh Valley. They return to Toledo to host the Red Wings on June 12 at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score | Video Highlights

Game Notes

* Attendance: 6,713

* Jeff Larish was activated from the disabled list before the game and started at first base.

* Scott Sizemore's first-inning single extended his hitting streak to 11 games.

* Lehigh Valley's Chris Duffy was ejected in the sixth inning.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Strieby collects four hits; Hens clip Wings, 5-4!
06/04/2010 11:46 PM ET

The Toledo Mud Hens started their eight game road trip with a 5-4 win on Friday night in Rochester. It was the first of eight meetings between the two clubs this year.



· Box Score
· Next Homestand: June 12-20





The Hens improved to 31-24 on the year with the win.

Toledo built a 5-0 lead before Rochester scored three runs in the 7th frame. Rochester plated a run in the ninth against Jay Sborz and stranded the tying run at third base.

Ryan Strieby had four hits in the contest to pace the Hens. Toledo collected 14 hits in the game.

Scott Sizemore extended his hitting streak to 12 games.

LHP Ryan Ketchner started and earned the win.

Catcher Jeff Kunkel made his Toledo debut and had two hits.

Toledo is now 3.5 games behind Columbus in the IL West.

Toledo will continue the series with the Red Wings on Saturday at 7:05 and Billy Buckner will make his Toledo debut on the hill.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Vote your Mud Hens into the Triple-A All-Star Game!
06/04/2010 9:44 AM ET

With the 23rd annual Triple-A All-Star Game in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania just under six weeks away, Triple-A Baseball and MLB Advanced Media (MLBAM) announced today that online voting is now underway. This is the fourth consecutive year that Triple-A Baseball and MLBAM have teamed up to offer this opportunity to baseball fans across the country. Voting begins today and will run through Friday, June 25. This year's contest will take place at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania, home of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, on Wednesday, July 14 at 7:00 p.m. EDT.

Fan balloting will help determine the starting lineups for both All-Star Teams, accounting for one-third of the total vote along with ballots cast by members of the media and each club's field manager, coaches, and general manager. VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE MUD HENS!

All fans who participate in the online balloting will be able to vote for players from both the IL and PCL rosters. Fans can select one player for each of the infield positions, plus three outfielders, a designated hitter, and four pitchers - two starters and two relievers. Write-in votes for players not listed on the ballot will also be accepted.

Up-to-date statistics and position-by-position comparisons are available at the click of a mouse to help fans make their selections. Voting updates will be made available weekly for both Leagues. Once the balloting period is over, fans can check the aforementioned websites for additional updates and features leading up to the All-Star Game. The 23rd annual Triple-A All-Star Game will be broadcast live from Lehigh Valley on Wednesday, July 14 on MLB Network as well as MiLB.TV on the World Wide Web. Events preceding the game include the "Pigapalooza" FanFest (July 10) and the Triple-A Home Run Derby (July 12).

********** DID YOU KNOW... ********** Online voting is the best way for fans to help send players from their favorite team to the Triple-A All-Star Game. So which team has sent the most All-Stars to the event since its inception in 1988? Two teams are actually tied for the record. Buffalo and Albuquerque have both sent 44 All-Stars to the event, just edging out Columbus (43). Buffalo's contribution to the Triple-A All-Star Game has included such names as Jay Bell, Jeromy Burnitz, Brian Giles, and Richie Sexson, while Albuquerque has sent Pedro Martinez, Mike Piazza, and Paul Konerko, among others.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Sizemore's four hits cannot propel Hens to victory as Rochester wins 8-4
By Kyle Rowland
06/05/2010 7:57 PM ET

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - The Toledo Mud Hens ended up on the wrong side of a hit fest Saturday at Frontier Field, falling 8-4 to the Rochester Red Wings. The teams combined for 29 hits. Rochester had 16, tying the most for a Mud Hen opponent all season.

Billy Buckner, making his Mud Hen debut, was shaky in his 4.1 innings of work. He gave up 14 hits and eight runs, striking out two and walking one. Josh Rainwater and Scot Drucker went 3.2 innings in relief, yielding just two hits.

The Hens got on the board with a run in the second. Casper Wells tripled and scored following an RBI single by Deik Scram. Rochester came right back in the home half of the inning to tie it. Matt Macri led off with a double and scored when Brock Peterson got a double of his own. In between were two outs and the third followed Peterson's RBI double.

The Red Wings began the bottom of the third with three consecutive singles by Toby Gardenhire, Brian Dinkelman and Trevor Plouffe. Gardenhire was thrown out at home plate on Plouffe's base hit by Casper Wells who threw a laser form centerfield. A walk followed before Macri popped out. A Wilson Ramos single brought in two runs to put the Wings up 3-1. Major League veteran Jacque Jones kept the onslaught going with a two-RBI double to make it a 5-1 ballgame. The inning would end one batter later with a Brock Peterson strikeout.

Rochester added a run in the fourth on a Plouffe single, scoring Gardenhire to make it 6-1.

The Hens got back in the game with four runs in the fifth. Robinzon Diaz and Scott Sizemore led off the inning with back-to-back singles. Will Rhymes followed with a walk to load the bases with none out. After a line out by Danny Worth, Jeff Frazier doubled to score Diaz and Sizemore and make it 6-3. Rhymes advanced to third and scored on a sacrifice fly by Jeff Larish to close the gap to 6-4.

The Red Wings responded in the bottom half with two-run home run by Brock Peterson. The round tripper put Rochester up by the final margin of 8-4.

Toledo and Rochester continue their series Sunday afternoon with a 1 p.m. start. The Hens return home June 12 for an eight-game homestand. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Billy Buckner made his Mud Hen debut.
* Casper Wells' triple was the 12th by a Hen this season.
* Scott Sizemore extended his hitting streak to 13 games.
* Sizemore was 4-or-5 with a run.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Toledo and Rochester were rained out and will play a doubleheader Monday
06/06/2010 12:09 PM ET

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Sunday's game between Toledo and Rochester was postponed due to rain.

The teams will play a doubleheader Monday starting at 6:05 p.m. The second game will begin approximately 30 minutes following the conclusion of the first game. Both games will be seven innings.

The Hens return home June 12 for an eight-game homestand. Upcoming Game Tickets

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Go green with the Hens on Thursday, June 17!
06/07/2010 10:09 AM ET

Get your green on Thursday, June 17 as the Mud Hens will be celebrating the First Annual Irish Heritage Night at Fifth Third Field, presented by The Blarney.


The Hens' will be wearing special edition green jerseys during the game! Fans will be able to bid on these game-worn limited-edition jerseys via a silent auction on the main concourse. Bidding will end at the bottom of the 7th inning and proceeds from the auction will benefit the Salvation Army.

Plus, we'll be serving green beer at the draft beer portable stand located in lucky section 107, next to the Gilhooley's Grill. Look for the festive green decorations and the stand attendants wearing green Bud shirts and hats!

BUY TICKETS!

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Mud Hens fall, 3-0, to IronPigs as Alfredo Figaro and Nate Bump battle in pitcher's duel
By Kyle Rowland
06/08/2010 10:00 PM ET

ALLENTOWN, PA. - The Toledo Mud Hens lost, 3-0, to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs in a pitcher's duel Tuesday night at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, Pa. The teams combined for just 10 hits as Alfredo Figaro and Nate Bump flustered hitters for most of the night.

The IronPigs didn't waste any time getting on the board as they scored a run in the bottom of the first. Willy Taveras led off the inning with a single and stole second to get himself in scoring position. That is exactly what he did on a Neil Sellers double to give Lehigh Valley an early 1-0 lead.

Figaro (4-4) went 6.2 innings, allowing just one run on five hits. He struck out four and walked two. Bump (6-3) went six innings, striking out four and walking four. He surrendered just three hits.

Lehigh Valley picked up two insurance runs in the eighth on a Jeff Larish throwing error, one of four Mud Hen errors in the game. After Daniel Schlereth walked the bases loaded, Melvin Dorta hit a ground ball to third that was thrown wildly by Larish, allowing the IronPigs to take a 3-0 lead into the ninth.

Scott Mathieson picked up his 11th save of the season.

Toledo had only five hits in the game. They were paced by designated hitter Max Leon, who went 2-for-4. Brent Dlugach saw his team-high five-game hit streak come to an end, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.

The Hens fall to 32-27 on the season.

Toledo and Lehigh Valley continue their series Wednesday at 7:05 p.m. The Hens return home June 12 for an eight-game homestand. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Wilkin Ramirez made his 2010 Mud Hen debut
* Figaro's line: 6.2 IP, 5 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 4K
* Toledo lost for the first time on Tuesday and is now 9-1 on the season.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hens split doubleheader with Red Wings
By David Schoenholtz
06/08/2010 12:02 AM ET

(Rochester, NY) - After getting crushed by a dozen runs in the first game of a doubleheader with the Rochester Red Wings, the Toledo Mud Hens gained a series split, taking Game 2 by the score of 6-2 on Monday night at Frontier Field.

Ruddy Lugo (1-3) did not make it out of the first inning in Game 1, allowing 10 runs - nine earned - as the Mud Hens lost 15-3. Rochester's Glen Perkins (1-6) gave up three runs in five innings of work but earned his first win of the season.

L.J. Gagnier (3-2) saved the bullpen in Game 2, throwing a complete game one-hitter. His only mistake was a third-inning home run by Trevor Plouffe. Toledo scored in four of the first five innings off Matt Fox (4-3) and Brad Hennessey. Jeff Larish hit a two-run home run in the third inning and Brent Dlugach contributed a solo shot in the fifth.

The Mud Hens are now 32-26, 3.5 games back of Columbus in the IL West.

The Hens travel to Lehigh Valley for a four-game series with the IronPigs beginning on Tuesday. They return to Toledo to host the Red Wings on June 12 at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score Game 1 | Box Score Game 2

Game Notes

* In Game 1, Deik Scram made an error for the first time since August 2009.
* Will Rhymes, who has played second base and third base for the Hens this season, started both games in center field.
* Jeff Kunkel went 3-4 in Game 2 and is hitting .556 (5-9) since being promoted from Double-A Erie.
* Both Jeff Larish and Brent Dlugach hit their sixth home runs of the year in Game 2.
* Toledo out-hit Rochester 14-1 in Game 2.
* Scott Sizemore went 0-9 on the day and saw his 13-game hitting streak come to an end.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hens-Pigs Postponed; doubleheader Thursday
06/09/2010 7:55 PM ET

(Allentown, PA) - Wednesday's game between Toledo and Lehigh Valley was postponed due to inclement weather.

The teams will play a doubleheader Thursday starting at 6:05 p.m. The second game will begin approximately 30 minutes following the conclusion of the first game. Both games will be seven innings.

The Hens return home on Saturday, June 12 for an eight-game homestand. Upcoming Game Tickets

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Wells homers and Buckner fools hitters as Mud Hens win 2-1; sweep doubleheader vs. IronPigs
By Kyle Rowland
06/10/2010 9:48 PM ET

ALLENTOWN, PA. - The Toledo Mud Hens swept its doubleheader Thursday with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, winning Game 2, 2-1. Once again, Toledo was the beneficiary of outstanding pitching as Billy Buckner went the distance (seven innings), allowing the lone run on six hits. He struck out four and walked one.

The teams combined for just 11 hits over the seven innings.

Casper Wells started the scoring with a solo home run in the top of the third to put the Hens up 1-0.

The IronPigs loaded the bases in the fourth, but Buckner got out of the jam with an inning ending double play.

Toledo added another run in the sixth with an RBI single from Ryan Strieby, scoring Scott Sizemore from second base.

An Andy Tracy solo home run in the bottom of the six cut the lead in half. The IronPigs would not threaten again, though, as the Hens won 2-1.

Toledo improves to 34-27.

Toledo and Lehigh Valley wrap up their series Friday at 7:05 p.m. The Hens return home June 12 for an eight-game homestand. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Casper Wells hit his ninth HR of the season.
* Jeff Frazier now has 200 doubles for the season.
* Buckner's line: 7 IP, 6 H, 1 R, 1ER, 1 BB, 4 K

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Mud Hens win Game 1 of doubleheader, 4-3, behind four solo home runs
By Kyle Rowland
06/10/2010 7:11 PM ET

ALLENTOWN, PA. - The Toledo Mud Hens took Game 1 of a doubleheader, 4-3, against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. With the win, Toledo improves to 33-27 on the season and 5-1 in seven inning games.

The Hens came out swinging as they hit three home runs in the first inning to take a 3-0 lead out of the gate. Scott Sizemore led off the game with a home run. Coincidentally, the last time the Hens had a leadoff homer it was Sizemore - also in the first game of a doubleheader. He accomplished the feat on July 24, 2009 against Scranton/Wilkes-Barres. After back-to-back strikeouts to Casper Wells and Jeff Frazier, the Hens hit back-to-back home runs, courtesy of Ryan Strieby and Jeff Larish for a 3-0 lead.

Cody Ransom made it a tie game, though, with one swing of the bat in the home half of the first. Ransom hit his 13th home run, a three-run shot, over the left-center field fence to make it a 3-3 ballgame.

The Hens regained the lead in the third inning with a solo home run by Frazier. The 4-3 lead would hold up the rest of the game.

Toledo starter Ryan Ketchner (3-2) allowed just one hit over his final 4.1 innings following the three runs and two hits he surrendered in the first.

Casey Fien and Jay Sborz pitched the final 1.2 innings. Sborz collected his 13th save.

Game 2 will follow in approximately 30 minutes. Toledo and Lehigh Valley wrap up their series Friday at 7:05 p.m. The Hens return home June 12 for an eight-game homestand. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Scott Sizemore led off the game with a HR, his second homer of the season. It is the first leadoff HR for Toledo since Sizemore did it last July (7/24) against S/W-B - also in Game 1 of a doubleheader. Amazing!
* Ryan Streiby (5), Jeff Larish (7) and Jeff Frazier (9) also homered in the game.
* The Hens are now 5-1 in seven inning games.
* Sborz threw 10 consecutive strikes to begin the bottom of the seventh.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hens end road trip with win over IronPigs
By David Schoenholtz
06/11/2010 11:40 PM ET

(Allentown, PA) - The Toledo Mud Hens wrapped up their eight-game road trip with an 8-4 win over the Lehigh Valley IronPigs on Friday night at Coca-Cola Park.

Ruddy Lugo (1-3) bounced back from his worst start of the year to keep his team in the game, allowing three runs on six hits in five innings of work. He left with a 4-3 lead, but Daniel Schlereth gave up the tying run in the bottom of the seventh.

Jeff Larish hit a two-run home run off Ryan Vogelsong (2-4) in the eighth to make it a 5-4 game, and Ryan Strieby delivered the big blow - a three-run shot off Oscar Villareal in the top of the ninth - to provide the Hens with insurance.

Brendan Wise (2-0) earned the win with 2.1 innings of scoreless relief.

The Mud Hens have won their last three games and are now 33-26, while Lehigh Valley falls to 23-38.

The Hens return to Toledo to host the Rochester Red Wings on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 10,000 on the nose.
* Wilkin Ramirez, promoted earlier this week from Double-A Erie, drove in his first run as a Mud Hen this season.
* Jeff Larish hit his third home run in his last five games.
* Each team had 14 hits.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Five run lead doesn't hold up as Rochester claws back for 10-6 victory
By Kyle Rowland
06/12/2010 10:33 PM ET

TOLEDO, OHIO - The Toledo Mud Hens dropped the first game of its series, 10-6, to the Rochester Red Wings Saturday night at Fifth Third Field. The Hens led 5-0 after two innings, but could not overcome an offensive onslaught from the Wings after a 49 minute rain delay.

The Hens jumped out of the gate with two runs in the first inning, all coming on a two-run home run by Wilkin Ramirez. The deep drive to left-center field founds its way to Monroe Street. Scott Sizemore led off the game with a single.

Casper Wells continued the home run parade with a solo home run in the second inning to give Toledo a 3-0 lead. Brent Dlugach followed with a single and scored on an RBI double by Robinzon Diaz. With Wilkin Ramirez at the plate, the skies opened up and 49 minutes later we were playing baseball again. Jeff Frazier didn't seem to get cold during the delay as he hit an RBI single, scoring Diaz and giving the Hens a 5-0 advantage.

The Red Wings got three unearned runs in the top of the third to cut the Hen lead to 5-3. Brock Peterson led off the inning by reaching base on a Jeff Larish throwing error. He would make his way to third on another error, this time by L.J. Gagnier, allowing Toby Gardenhire to reach first safely. After a walk to Jason Repko, Yancarlos Ortiz hit an RBI single. The Hens finally got an out when Brian Dinkelman struck out swinging. Jose Morales made it a 5-2 game with an RBI single. Dustin Martin followed with a ground ball that the Hens weren't able to turn for a double play. Repko scored and it was a 5-3 ballgame. Wilson Ramos flew out to end the inning.

Rochester tied the game in the fourth on a solo home run by Peterson and RBI single by Ortiz to score Repko.

In the home half, Ryan Strieby gave the Mud Hens a 6-5 lead with a solo home run to right field.

Rob Delaney came on in relief for Rochester after Glen Perkins was ejected for hitting Jeff Larish. In his 3.2 innings pitched, Delaney allowed just one hit, striking out six and walking none.

The Red Wings would tie it again in the seventh. Ramos followed up a double by Martin with an RBI single.

Rochester would take the lead with two runs in the eighth. Peterson, who doubled to begin the inning, was driven in on a sacrifice fly by Ortiz to give the Wings their first lead of the game. It would be stretched to two runs after Matt Hoffman, on in relief, threw a wild pitch allowing Gardenhire to score.

The Wings added two more runs in the ninth for a 10-6.

Josh Rainwater (1-3) was credited with the loss, while Delany (7-3) picked up his seventh win in relief.

Toledo and Rochester continue their series Sunday at 6:30 p.m. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 10,700 - eighth sellout of the season.
* Wilkin Ramirez hit his first HR as a Hen. He was leading the Eastern League in HRs with 15 at Double-A Erie.
* Casper Wells' HR was his 10th of the season.
* Glen Perkins was ejected after hitting Jeff Larish with a pitch in the bottom of the fifth inning.
* There was a 49 minute rain delay in the bottom of the second inning.
* Wilson Ramos is 8-for-19 (.421) with five RBI and a run scored in five games vs. the Mud Hens this season.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Frazier's two homers lead Hens over Wings, 8-3!
By David Schoenholtz
06/13/2010 9:29 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens got back in the win column with an 8-3 victory over the Rochester Red Wings on Sunday night at Fifth Third Field.

The Hens loaded the bases but could not score in the bottom of the first inning. Scott Sizemore hit a leadoff single and moved to second on a bunt single by Will Rhymes. After Jeff Frazier grounded into a double play, Matt Fox (4-4) walked Ryan Strieby and Jeff Larish before striking out Casper Wells to end the threat.

The Red Wings got on the board in the top of the second against Alfredo Figaro (5-4). Jose Morales led off with a triple and scored on a Dustin Martin groundout.

The Mud Hens responded in the bottom of the inning by batting around and scoring five runs of their own. With one out, Wilkin Ramirez singled, Jeff Kunkel walked, and Sizemore to load the bases. Rhymes then hit an 0-2 pitch just fair down the first-base line to drive in two. Frazier followed with a single to score Sizemore, and after Strieby struck out and Larish walked, Wells hit an RBI single to make it a 5-1 game.

Frazier launched his 10th home run of the season onto Monroe Street to lead off the bottom of the fourth.

After Brian Dinkelman took Figaro deep for a two-run home run in the sixth inning to cut Toledo's lead to 6-3, Toledo came right back with a pair of runs on back-to-back long balls in the bottom of the inning. Frazier hit his second homer of the game and Strieby followed suit, making the score 8-3, which was the final.

Figaro earned the win, and Fox took the loss for Toledo.

The Mud Hens improve to 36-28, while the Red Wings fall to 27-37.

The Mud Hens continue their series with Rochester on Monday night at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 7,637
* Game Time Temperature: 78 degrees
* One day after Casper Wells took the team lead, Jeff Frazier matched his teammate with his 10th home run of the season and added his 11th later in the game.
* Jeff Frazier and Ryan Strieby hit back-to-back home runs in the bottom of the sixth inning. The Mud Hens have hit back-to-back homers five times this season, and each occurrence has involved either Frazier or Strieby.
* Rochester's Matt Fox walked seven - including Jeff Larish three times - in 4.2 innings of work.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Frazier hits two homers for second straight day as Hens beat Wings 7-5
By Kyle Rowland
06/14/2010 8:02 PM ET

TOLEDO, OHIO - The Toledo Mud Hens won their second consecutive game Monday with a 7-5 triumph over the Rochester Red Wings at Fifth Third Field. Jeff Frazier continued his bashing ways, hitting two home runs to pace the Mud Hens.

Frazier's power surge started tonight in the first inning as he belted a solo home run to put the Hens in front 1-0. It was Frazier's third home run in two days.

Rochester scored two runs in the top of the second to take a one run lead. The Red Wings' runs were courtesy of four consecutive singles. Toby Gardenhire and Jason Repko each had RBI singles.

The Hens tied it in the bottom half. After Brent Dlugach led off the inning with a ground out, Wilkin Ramirez singled and then stole second. Robinzon Diaz hit an RBI single to make it a 2-2 ballgame. Diaz was then picked off during Scott Sizemore's at-bat and Will Rhymes grounded out to end the inning.

The Red Wings were back at it in the third with two more runs. Jose Morales singled with one out and Dustin Martin followed with a double to put two runners in scoring position with an out. Wilson Ramos brought Morales home with an RBI single and after a Matt Macri strikeout, Brock Peterson drove in Martin with a line drive to left to give Rochester a 4-2 lead. Gardenhire popped out to end the inning.

Scot Drucker, who made a spot start for the Hens, struggled going 3.0 innings while giving up nine hits, four runs and two home runs. He struck out one and walked one.

Toledo came on heavy in the fifth with four runs to take a 6-4 lead. Diaz led off the inning with a single. Sizemore was hit by a pitch before Rhymes hit an RBI single to score Diaz and cut the Wing lead to one run. In stepped Jeff Frazier, who is arguably the hottest player in the International League. He continued his hot streak with a moon shot to left field. The three-run homer gave Toledo a 6-4 lead. The inning ended with three consecutive outs.

The Hens added a run in the seventh on an RBI double by Ryan Strieby. Sizemore, who reached on an error, scored on the play, giving Toledo a 7-4 lead.

The eighth inning started off with Jay Sborz hitting Ramos with a pitch. Macri followed with a single before Peterson hit a grounder that the Hens were only able to turn into one out, coming at second base. Ramos scored on a sacrifice fly by Gardenhire, making it 7-5. The Hens were able to get out of the inning without allowing more runs.

Brendan Wise (3-0), who pitched three perfect innings in relief, got the win. Sborz picked up his 14th save, fourth most in the IL.

Toledo and Rochester conclude their series Tuesday at 12:00 p.m. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Jeff Frazier hit two home runs for the second straight day.
* Frazier was 2-for-4 with two HRs, four RBI and two runs.
* Max Leon replaced Wilkin Ramirez after he left with an injury in the bottom of the fourth.
* Ramirez was 2-for-2 with a run before leaving.
* Brendan Wise threw three perfect innings in relief, striking out two.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hens fall 12-6 to Rochester
By David Schoenholtz
06/15/2010 3:01 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens gave up seven runs in the fourth inning and lost 12-6 to the Rochester Red Wings on Tuesday afternoon at Fifth Third Field.

The Hens loaded the bases in the bottom of the first inning and scored on a fielder's choice off the bat of Jeff Larish. Scott Sizemore grounded out to start the frame, but Will Rhymes was hit by a pitch and moved to third on a double by Jeff Frazier. Ryan Mullins (4-5) walked Ryan Strieby before Larish came up and drove in Toledo's first run of the game. Casper Wells then flied out to end the rally.

The Red Wings put two runners on in the top of the third against Billy Buckner (1-2), but failed to score. They finally got on the board in the fourth inning on a Dustin Martin triple and a two-out infield single by Matt Macri. Wilson Ramos, Toby Gardenhire, and Jason Repko followed with singles of their own, and Rochester had a 3-1 lead. Yancarlos Ortiz then hit a line drive off the glove of Scott Sizemore that was ruled an error and allowed an unearned run to score. Brian Dinkelman hit a double to the left-center field gap to drive in two more, and Jose Morales, who had led off the inning, doubled as well. When the inning was finally over, the Mud Hens trailed 7-1.

The Mud Hens responded in the bottom of the inning by scoring twice - once on a home run by Larish and once on a Max Leon RBI single that plated Wells, who had doubled with one out.

Toledo continued to chip away in the fifth inning. With one out, Rhymes singled and Frazier doubled. Strieby then hit a ground ball to shortstop that scored Rhymes with the Hens' fourth run.

Rochester batted around in the top of the sixth and added four runs off Josh Rainwater. A leadoff walk to Ortiz and a two-out RBI double by Martin made it 8-3, and two walks, a passed ball, and two singles later, the Red Wings had 11 runs.

The Hens continued the scoring in the bottom of the inning, as Leon hit a sacrifice fly to score Wells, and Kunkel contributed an RBI groundout to plate Brent Dlugach.

The Red Wings wasted little time when they came to bat in the top of the seventh, as Ortiz doubled down the left-field line and scored on a single by Dinkelman.

The last two and a half innings were scoreless, as Casey Fien and Anthony Slama combined to allow just two hits.

Mullins earned the win, and Buckner took the loss for Toledo.

The Mud Hens fall to 37-29, while the Red Wings improve to 28-38.

After an off-day on Wednesday, the Mud Hens begin a series with Norfolk on Thursday night at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 7,523
* Jeff Frazier hit his 21st and 22nd doubles to take the International League lead.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Ketchner's performance all for naught as Tides rally for 6-3 victory
By Kyle Rowland
06/17/2010 8:28 PM ET

TOLEDO, OHIO - The Toledo Mud Hens fell in its series opener to Norfolk, 6-3, in front of a sold out crowd at Fifth Third Field. The Tides rallied with five runs in the eighth to secure its victory. Ryan Ketchner, who was outstanding in his 6.1 innings of work, got a no-decision.

Norfolk began the scoring in the top of the third with an unearned run. Former Ohio State Buckeye Matt Angle singled with one out. He advanced to second after Ketchner's throw to first was wild. Angle wasn't done scooting around the bases yet, though, as he stole third. Robert Andino brought him home with a sacrifice fly to put the Tides up 1-0.

The Hens followed it up in the bottom half with three runs. Brent Dlugach and Jeff Frazier led off the inning with back-to-back singles before Ryan Strieby struck out. Jeff Larish followed with a three-run homer to dead center, giving the Hens a 3-1 lead.

Norfolk starter Brad Bergesen went only 2.2 innings, giving up three runs on five hits. He struck out two and walked two.

Jim Miller came on to relieve Bergesen and was phenomenal in his 3.1 innings of work. He allowed one hit, struck out five and walked none.

Norfolk took the lead in the eighth with five runs. Paco Figueroa led off the inning with a single. Angle followed with a walk and Andino singled to load the bases. Jeff Salazar hit a grounder to first, but Frazier's throw home was in the dirt and a run scored, making it a 3-2 ballgame. Daniel Schlereth then walked in a run to tie the game. The Tides would take the lead on a two-run, two-RBI double giving Norfolk a 5-3 lead. It would grow to 6-3 after a Brandon Snyder sacrifice fly. The inning ended on a Figueroa ground out.

Mike Hinckley (1-3) picked up his first win of the season. Dennis Sarfate collected his ninth save.

Toledo and Norfolk continue their series Friday at 7:00 p.m. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 9,122. The ninth sellout of the season and 247th all-time at Fifth Third Field.
* Jeff Larish hit his 10th HR.
* Ketchner's line: 6.1 IP, 6 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 5 K
* Jeff Frazier extended his hitting streak to eight games.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.