2010 Toledo Mud Hens Schedule and Results

Homers lead Hens 6-4 over Norfolk
By David Schoenholtz
06/18/2010 9:42 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens used the long ball to beat the Norfolk Tides 6-4 on Friday night at Fifth Third Field.

The Tides got on the board in the top of the first inning. Matt Angle drew a leadoff walk, stole second, and went to third as Jeff Kunkel's throw went into center field. Robert Andino followed with an RBI groundout to make it a 1-0 game.

The Hens responded in the bottom of the inning with three runs of their own off Chris George (2-2). Brent Dlugach hit a one-out single and was forced out on a fielder's choice off the bat of Jeff Frazier. After Frazier stole second base, Ryan Strieby walked and Jeff Larish launched a three-run home run to right field to give the Hens a 3-1 lead.

A Blake Davis RBI groundout scored Norfolk's second run of the game in the top of the second, but the Tides never caught up with the Hens.

With two outs in the bottom of the second, Jeff Kunkel singled and scored on Scott Sizemore's third home run since being optioned to Toledo last month.

Norfolk put two on with one out in the top of the fourth, but Ruddy Lugo (2-3) got Davis to ground into an inning-ending double play to end the threat.

Toledo tacked on another run in the bottom of the fourth on a double by Kunkel, a sacrifice by Sizemore, and a Dlugach single. Frazier and Larish walked to load the bases, but Casper Wells's line drive found Josh Bell's glove to end the inning.

Lugo walked two in the top of the fifth before Michael Aubrey delivered a two-run double to cut the Mud Hen lead to 6-4.

Josh Rainwater came out of the bullpen to throw three scoreless innings, and Jay Sborz pitched around a two-out error in the ninth to earn the save.

Lugo picked up the win, and George took the loss for Norfolk.

The Mud Hens improve to 38-30, while the Tides fall to 30-39.

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

Game Notes

* Attendance: 10,300
* Jeff Larish hit a home run in his third consecutive game.
* Jeff Kunkel collected three hits. Entering the game, he had been 0 for his last 12.

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

Diaz and Larish continue their hot streaks, but Hens fall 10-3 to Norfolk
By Kyle Rowland
06/19/2010 8:03 PM ET

TOLEDO, OHIO - The Toledo Mud Hens fell hard Saturday night, 10-3, to the Norfolk Tides. The hits came often for Norfolk as they racked up 14 for the game.

The Hens got on the board early, scoring a run in the first on a one-out RBI double by Jeff Frazier. Scott Sizemore scored on the play after leading off the inning with a double. Toledo had two on with two out, but couldn't convert it into any more runs.

Norfolk responded with four runs in the top of the second to take a 4-1 lead. Josh Bell grounded out to begin the inning before Nolan Reimold doubled. He would advance to third on a wild pitch by L.J. Gagnier (3-3) before scoring on an error by Gagnier. Back-to-back singles by Michel Hernandez and Paco Figueroa made it a 3-1 ballgame. Matt Angle followed it with an RBI double to extend the lead to three before Jeff Salazar struck out to end the inning.

The Hens loaded the bases with one out in the home half, but an uncharacteristic double play ended their chances at scoring. Brent Dlugach flew out to left field. On the play, Wilkin Ramirez tagged at third and went home as Robinzon Diaz tried to tag from second to third. Diaz was thrown out at third, however, before Ramirez touched the plate resulting in confusion and zero runs.

A solo home run by Bell in the third gave the Tides a 5-1 lead.

Toledo got within two runs of Norfolk after scoring two in the fifth. With two on, Jeff Larish continued his hot streak blasting a two-RBI double to the gap in left.

Once again, though, Norfolk answered, scoring three runs in the top of the sixth. Hernandez singled with one out and scored on a triple by Figueroa to make it a 6-3 ballgame. The Tides would add two more after a Angle single and Jeff Salazar home run.

It was 10-3 after Salazar hit his second home run of the night, this time a two-run shot to the Roost in the eighth inning.

Troy Patton (5-7) picked up the win while Gagnier suffered his first home loss of the year.

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

Game Notes

* Attendance: 10,300. The 11th sellout of the season and 249th in Fifth Third Field history.
* Jeff Larish is 6 for his last 9 (.667) with two HRs, a double, eight RBI and two runs.
* Robinzon Diaz stretched his team-leading hit streak to seven games.

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

Hens end homestand with 5-1 win over Norfolk
By David Schoenholtz
06/20/2010 9:12 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens got a much-needed strong performance from their starting pitcher, and beat the Norfolk Tides 5-1 before a sell-out crowd on Sunday night at Fifth Third Field.

The game was scoreless until the top of the third, when Norfolk strung together three singles to score a run off Alfredo Figaro (6-4).

The Hens finally got on the board in the fourth inning. Jeff Frazier hit an opposite-field home run - his team-leading 14th of the year - off Brandon Erbe (0-10).

In the fifth, Wilkin Ramirez reached on an error by Norfolk shortstop Paco Figueroa, stole second, and moved to third on a groundout by Jon Weber. Will Rhymes then singled to give Toledo a 2-1 lead. Rhymes stole second, and Brent Dlugach and Frazier walked to load the bases. Erbe got out of the jam by inducing Jeff Larish to ground into an inning-ending double play.

Figaro's night ended after Matt Angle hit a leadoff double in the top of the eighth and went to third on a sacrifice bunt by Joey Gathright. Daniel Schlereth came in and retired Jeff Salazar on and Josh Bell to strand Gathright and put an end to the Norfolk threat.

Toledo tacked on three insurance runs in the bottom of the eighth on a three-run home run off the bat of Casper Wells.

Jay Sborz pitched a perfect ninth to finish off the Tides.

Figaro allowed just one run on eight hits in 7.1 innings of work, and earned the win. Erbe took the loss for Norfolk.

The Mud Hens improve to 39-31, while the Tides fall to 31-40.

The Hens travel to Louisville for a series with the Bats followed by a trip to Indianapolis for four games with the Indians. They return to Toledo to host the Gwinnett Braves on Tuesday, June 29th at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 10,300 - the 12th sellout of the season for the Mud Hens.
* Scott Sizemore, who had started the previous 31 games, received the day off.
* Alfredo Figaro went 7.1 innings - his longest outing of the year.

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

Trio of Dlugach, Rhymes and Buckner lead Hens in 6-0 triumph of Louisville
By Kyle Rowland
06/21/2010 8:26 PM ET

LOUISVILLE, KY. - The Toledo Mud Hens began their road trip with a 6-0 victory over the Louisville Bats Monday night at Louisville Slugger Field. It was Toledo's fourth consecutive win on the road.

Toledo starter Billy Buckner (2-2) was outstanding, allowing just four hits in eight innings. Remarkably, he had zero strikeouts.

After tallying three hits in the first four innings, the Mud Hens finally got a digit in the run column in the fifth. Will Rhymes hit a one-out single to begin the threat. He then stole second and advanced to third when Louisville catcher Chris Denove's throw went into centerfield. Rhymes then scored on a single by Jeff Kunkel.

Toledo would add to its lead in the sixth. After Ryan Strieby grounded out to begin the inning, Jeff Larish and Casper Wells got back-to-back walks. Wilkin Ramirez struck out for the second out before Rhymes hit a bases-clearing doubles to put the Hens up 3-0. Rhymes then stole third for his second stolen base of the night. Kunkel would follow with an RBI single, scoring Rhymes from third, just like he did the inning prior. It appeared that the inning would end when Scott Sizemore grounded to third baseman Todd Frazier, but an error allowed him to reach base safely and extend the inning. It would come back to haunt the Bats as Brent Dlugach hit a double, scoring Kunkel and Sizemore to put the Hens in front 6-0.

The first time the Bats threatened was in the bottom of the eighth. With two outs, they were able to load the bases. The threat was short lived, though, as Buckner was able to induce a ground out to end the inning.

Casey Fien pitched an uneventful ninth for the Hens.

Toledo and Louisville continue their four-game series Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. The Hens return home Tuesday, June 29 for a seven game homestand vs. Gwinnett and Columbus. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Buckner's line: 8 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 0 K
* Brent Dlugach was 4-for-5 with two RBI.
* Will Rhymes was 2-for-4 with two RBI and two runs.

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

Hens' win streak ends in Louisville
By David Schoenholtz
06/22/2010 9:51 PM ET

(Louisville, KY) - The Toledo Mud Hens got another strong outing from Ryan Ketchner, but lost to the Louisville Bats, 3-2, on Tuesday night at Louisville Slugger Field.

The Bats took the lead on a home run to straightaway center field by Todd Frazier, younger brother of Toledo's Jeff Frazier, in the bottom of the second inning.

Toledo tied the game in the top of the third. Casper Wells led off with a double off Chad Reineke (4-5) but wound up on third base as Louisville rightfielder Wladimir Balentien could not field the ball cleanly. Wilkin Ramirez followed with a single to drive in Wells.

In the top of the fifth, Jon Weber hit his first home run both as a Mud Hen and of the season to give the Hens a 2-1 lead.

The third solo homer of the game - this one by Louisville's Yonder Alonso - tied the game at 2-2 in the bottom of the sixth inning.

Brendan Wise (3-1) relieved Ketchner to start the bottom of the seventh, and gave up a run on a pair of singles, the latter of which scored Chris Valaika to make it a 3-2 game in favor of Louisville.

Jeff Frazier led off the top of the ninth with a single to chase Reineke. Bill Bray came in and closed out the game by striking out Jeff Larish, getting Ryan Strieby to line out to center, and striking out Weber.

Reineke earned the win with eight innings of two-run ball. Wise took the loss for Toledo.

The Mud Hens fall to 40-32 and remain in second place in the IL West behind Columbus.

The Hens continue their series with the Bats on Wednesday. They travel to Indianapolis for four games with the Indians beginning on Friday, and return to Toledo to host the Gwinnett Braves on Tuesday, June 29th at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Toledo's road winning streak ended at four games.

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

Hens can't take advantage of Louisville errors
By David Schoenholtz
06/23/2010 2:37 PM ET

(Louisville, KY) - The Toledo Mud Hens could not capitalize on three errors by their opponents, and lost to the Louisville Bats, 7-4, on Wednesday morning at Louisville Slugger Field.

The Hens scored first on a sacrifice fly by Will Rhymes in the top of the third, but their lead did not last long, as three Louisville singles in the bottom of the inning tied the game. The Bats took the lead on a two-run home run by Todd Frazier in the fourth.

Toledo and Louisville traded runs in the sixth inning, the bottom half of which featured the departure of Mud Hens starter Ruddy Lugo (2-4).

The Bats added three insurance runs in the bottom of the seventh inning. The big blow was a two-run triple off the bat of Zack Cozart.

Toledo's Jeff Frazier hit his International League-leading 24th double of the season in the top of the eighth inning and scored on a Ryan Strieby single to make it a 7-3 game.

Wilkin Ramirez hit a solo homer in the top of the ninth to cut the Louisville lead to 7-4, which was the final score.

Edinson Volquez (1-0), on a rehab assignment for the Cincinnati Reds, earned the win. Lugo took the loss for Toledo.

The Mud Hens fall to 40-33, while Louisville improves to 34-39.

The Hens conclude their series with the Bats on Thursday. They travel to Indianapolis for four games with the Indians beginning on Friday, and return to Toledo to host the Gwinnett Braves on Tuesday, June 29th at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Casper Wells was ejected in the fourth inning.
* Jeff Frazier hit his International League-leading 24th double of the season in the top of the eighth inning.
* Louisville's Aroldis Chapman made his first professional relief appearance.
* Toledo's record against Louisville is now 3-6. The only other team with a winning record against the Mud Hens is the Norfolk Tides.
* The Mud Hens are 1-6 on Wednesdays.

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

Rick Porcello was nearly flawless as Wilkin Ramirez provided the offense in Toledo's 6-1 victory at Louisville
By Kyle Rowland
06/24/2010 9:16 PM ET

LOUISVILLE, KY. - The Toledo Mud Hens earned a series split with a 6-1 win over the Louisville Bats Thursday night. In his first career Triple-A start, Rick Porcello (1-0) pitched eight one-hit innings.

Porcello had a no-hitter through 4.1 innings. He struck out three, walked one and hit a batter. Louisville managed to get an unearned run off him. It is the second time this season a Detroit Tigers pitcher has come down to Toledo and pitched eight one-hit innings. The other was Max Scherzer.

Louisville had only four base runners all game.

Wilkin Ramirez put the Hens on the board with a two-run home run in the top of the second inning. It was Ramirez's third home run of the season. Ryan Strieby walked to lead off the inning.

The Hens added their lead with two more runs in the third. Will Rhymes and Brent Dlugach hit back-to-back singles to lead off the inning before Jeff Frazier struck out. Louisville starter Ben Jukick (2-4) then walked Strieby to load the bases. A second consecutive walk to Jeff Larish allowed Rhymes to score and keep the bases loaded for Toledo. Ramirez, again, came through in the clutch with a single, scoring Dlugach and putting the Hens up 4-0. Outs by Casper Wells and Max Leon ended the inning.

It was 5-0 after Larish hit an RBI single in the fifth. Frazier scored on the play. He led off the inning with a strike out but advanced to first on a wild pitch.

With one out in the bottom of the fifth, Louisville finally got its first hit of the game, a double by Juan Francisco. He would score one batter later on a throwing error by Brent Dlugach, making it a 5-1 ballgame.

Toledo added an insurance run in the ninth to take a five run lead to the bottom half.

Casey Fien came on to pitch a perfect inning.

Toledo heads to Indianapolis for a four-game series with the Indians beginning Friday at 7:15 p.m. The Hens return home Tuesday, June 29 for a seven game homestand vs. Gwinnett and Columbus. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Wilkin Ramirez hit his third HR of the season.
* Ramirez was 2-for-5 with a HR, three RBI and two runs.
* Porcello's line: 8 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 3 K

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

Hens blow five-run lead, fall to Indians 9-8
By David Schoenholtz
06/25/2010 10:34 PM ET

(Indianapolis, IN) - The Toledo Mud Hens could not hold onto an early five-run lead and lost to the Indianapolis Indians, 9-8, on Friday night at Victory Field.

The Hens got to Indianapolis starter Mike Crotta for four runs in the top of the second inning. Ryan Strieby led off with a double and moved to third on a single by Jeff Larish. After Wilkin Ramirez struck out and Casper Wells drew a walk to load the bases, Jon Weber swung at the first pitch he saw and hit a double down the left-field line to score two. Jeff Kunkel then drove a ball to deep right-center for a two-run triple and the Mud Hens had a 4-0 lead.

In the top of the third, Larish singled to drive in Jeff Frazier, who led off the inning with his International League-leading 25th double of the season, to make the score 5-0.

The Indians finally got to L.J. Gagnier in the bottom of the inning. Brandon Moss and Jim Negrych hit back-to-back singles to put runners at the corners, and after Steve Pearce lined out to Larish, Jeff Clement doubled to cut the Mud Hen lead to 5-2.

Toledo and Indianapolis traded runs in the fourth inning. Weber walked to begin the top half and scored on a Will Rhymes double. With two outs in the bottom half, Indy's Kevin Melillo walked, went to third on a single by Moss, and scored as the throw from the rightfielder Wells hit Melillo's helmet and caromed into the stands.

The Indians came back and took the lead in the bottom of the sixth against Scot Drucker (2-3), who allowed five hits and a walk before getting pulled. The Tribe sent 10 batters to the plate and scored six times; when the inning finally ended, Indianapolis led 9-6.

Frazier's two-run home run - his 15th - brought Toledo within a run in the top of the ninth, but Jean Machi got Strieby to fly out to deep center field to pick up the save and nail down the Indian victory.

Former Mud Hen Corey Hamman (1-1) earned the win with two innings of scoreless relief, while Drucker took the loss for Toledo.

The Mud Hens fall to 41-34 and are tied with Indianapolis for second place in the IL West.

The Hens continue their series with the Indians on Saturday. They return to Toledo to host the Gwinnett Braves on Tuesday, June 29th at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Jeff Frazier hit his 25th double of the season in the top of the third inning and continues to lead the International League. He added a two-run home run - his 15th - in the top of the ninth.
* Jeff Kunkel had his third three-hit game since being promoted to Toledo earlier this month.
* Indians starting pitcher Mike Crotta struck out Wilkin Ramirez three times.

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

Hens can't solve Indians, lose 6-4
By David Schoenholtz
06/26/2010 10:30 PM ET

(Indianapolis, IN) - The Toledo Mud Hens collected 12 hits but fell to the Indianapolis Indians, 6-4, on Saturday night at Victory Field.

The Hens got to Indianapolis starter Jeremy Powell (4-6) for two runs in the top of the first inning. Will Rhymes singled to lead off the game and was forced at second on a Jon Weber fielder's choice. After a passed ball allowed Weber to move into scoring position, Jeff Frazier hit his International League-leading 26th double of the season to give Toledo an early advantage. Ryan Strieby then singled to score Frazier and the Mud Hens had a 2-0 lead before Alfredo Figaro (6-5) threw a pitch.

The Indians loaded the bases in the bottom of the second, but Figaro induced an inning-ending double play off the bat of Argenis Diaz to keep the home team off the board.

Indianapolis's Brandon Moss hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the third to tie the game at 2-2.

The Tribe took the lead in the fourth on a double by Brian Myrow, an Alex Presley groundout, and an RBI single by Erik Kratz. Diaz then tripled to drive in Kratz and make it a 4-2 game. A Kevin Melillo sacrifice fly scored the fifth Indianapolis run.

Jim Negrych led off the bottom of the fifth inning with a home run to extend the Tribe lead to 6-2. After Steve Pearce flied out to the warning track in dead center, Toledo manager Larry Parrish made the move to the bullpen and Figaro's night was done.

Jeff Larish's 12th home run cut the deficit to 6-3 in the top of the sixth. In the seventh, the Hens continued to chip away, as Rhymes hit an RBI single to make it 6-4, which turned out to be the final score.

Powell picked up the win, while Figaro took the loss for Toledo. Wilfredo Ledezma recorded the last four outs to earn his seventh save.

The Mud Hens fall to 41-35 and are now in third place in the IL West.

The Hens continue their series with the Indians on Sunday. They return to Toledo to host the Gwinnett Braves on Tuesday, June 29th at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Jeff Frazier hit his International League-leading 26th double of the season in the top of the first inning.
* Robinzon Diaz went 0-4 and saw his eight-game hitting streak come to an end.
* Will Rhymes was ejected after being called out on a close play at first base in the top of the ninth inning.


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

Hens dominated in 15-3 loss to Indianapolis
By Kyle Rowland
06/27/2010 3:41 PM ET

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - The Toledo Mud Hens lost their third consecutive game, losing 15-3 to the Indianapolis Indians Sunday afternoon. The Indians tallied 19 hits.

The Mud Hens sprinted out of the gate with three runs in the top of the first. Will Rhymes led off the game with a walk and Justin Henry, playing in his first game as a Hen, followed with a single. Jeff Frazier and Ryan Strieby flew out and struck out, respectively, before Jeff Larish singled, scoring Rhymes and Henry. Wilkin Ramirez continued the onslaught with an RBI triple to put the Hens up 3-0. Casper Wells struck out to end the inning.

Jeff Clement cut the Toledo lead to 3-1 with a solo home run to lead off the bottom of the second inning. Brian Myrow followed it up with a homer of his own and all of a sudden it was a one run game. Toledo starter Bill Buckner walked Erik Kratz before striking out Jonathan Van Every for the first out of the inning. Doug Bernier and Akinori Iwamura walked to load the bases. A single by Brandon Moss put Indianapolis up 4-3. Alex Presley followed with another single to put the Indians ahead 5-3. A sacrifice fly by Steven Pearce made it a three-run lead for Indy. The Hens finally got out of the inning when Jeff Clement, who lead off the inning, popped out.

Toledo loaded the bases with one out in the third but couldn't drive in a run.

Indianapolis added six more runs in the fourth. All six runs came with two outs in the inning. After a walk to Van Every, Bernier doubled making it a 7-3 ballgame. Iwamura followed with a walk before Moss, Presley and Pearce hit back-to-back-to-back home runs, giving the Indians a 12-3 lead.

Pressley drove in another run in the bottom of the fifth to put the Indians up 10 runs.

Indianapolis added two more runs in the sixth to take a 15-3 lead, which was the final margin.

Toledo and Indianapolis wrap up their series Monday at 7:00 p.m. The Hens return home Tuesday, June 29 for a seven game homestand vs. Gwinnett and Columbus. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* In his first game as a Hen, Justin Henry was 2-for-5 with a run and a stolen base.
* Indianapolis hit back-to-back HRs in the second and back-to-back-to-back HRs in the third.
* The Indians sent 10 batter to the plate in the second and third inning.
* Indianapolis' Brandon Moss went 2-for-6 with a HR, two runs and five RBI.
* Indianapolis' Alex Presley hit for the cycle in just his third Triple-A game.
* Max Leon replaced Jeff Frazier at first base in the fifth inning.

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

Will Rhymes' inside-the-park-home run provides plenty of drama but Hens lose, 6-5, in heartbreaking fashion
By Kyle Rowland
06/28/2010 9:04 PM ET

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - The Toledo Mud Hens were swept for the first time this season, losing 6-5 to the Indianapolis Indians. Only three of the six Indy runs were earned as the Hens made three errors.

After Will Rhymes tied the game at five in the top of the ninth with an inside-the-park-home run, Kevin Melillo hit a game-winning homer off Jay Sborz (1-2) in the bottom of the ninth.

Indianapolis got the first runs of the game in the bottom of the fourth, scoring twice. With one out, Jim Negrych singled up the middle. Steve Pearce flew out for the second out of the inning before Jeff Clement and Brandon Moss, two of the main contributors in Sunday's 15-3 rout, came through with a double and triple to give Louisville a 2-0 lead.

The Hens came back in the fifth with a run to cut the score to 2-1. Casper Wells led off the inning by walking and eventually made his way to third base on a Max Leon ground out and wild pitch. He scored on a ground out by Robinson Diaz.

The Indians answered with two more runs in the home half. Doug Bernier singled to lead off the frame and Argenis Diaz reached base on a fielding error by Brent Dlugach. A sac bunt by Melillo put runners on second and third. After Alex Presley lined out, Negrych hit a two-RBI single to put the Tribe up 4-1. Pearce grounded out to end the inning.

The Mud Hens tied the game with a three-run seventh. A Wilkin Ramirez single kick started the inning for the Hens. After Wells struck out, Leon singled and Diaz followed with a walk to load the bases. Rhymes hit a line-drive RBI single to bring in Ramirez, making it 4-2. Indianapolis pitcher Danny Moskos then issued a bases loaded walk to Dlugach that put Toledo within one run at 4-3. Jeff Frazier struck out for the second out but Moskos again walked someone with the bases loaded, this time it was Ryan Streiby and suddenly the game was tied at four. Jeff Larish lined out to end the inning.

The lead was short-lived, though, as Indianapolis scored in the bottom of the seventh. Bernier scored after reaching first on Brent Dlugach's second error of the night. There was also an error by Diaz on the play he scored, as well as a wild pitch.

Rhymes tied the game at five apiece with a dramatic sprint around the bases for an inside-the-park-home run. It was Rhymes' first homer of the season and first inside the parker for Toledo since Andres Torres accomplished the feat against Durham in the 2007 playoffs.

Like they have done all series, Indianapolis answered as Melillo hit a game-winning solo home run in the bottom of the ninth to give the Indians a 6-5 victory.

The Hens return home Tuesday for a seven game homestand vs. Gwinnett and Columbus. Toledo and Gwinnett square off at 7 p.m. Tuesday night. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Will Rhymes' inside-the-park-home run was his first HR of the season and the first inside the parker for Toledo since Andres Torres in September of 2007.
* Ryan Ketchner had six strikeouts in 5.1 innings.
* Toledo had three errors.
* The Hens have lost a season-high four games and were swept for the first time all season.


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

Mud Hens fall to Braves on Tuesday, 7-3
By Kyle Rowland
06/29/2010 8:03 PM ET

TOLEDO, Ohio - Mired in a season long four-game losing streak, the Toledo Mud Hens could not break out of their funk Tuesday night, losing 7-3 to the Gwinnett Braves in front of a sold out Fifth Third Field.

Matt Young and Wes Timmons led off the game for Gwinnett with back-to-back singles. Young was able to advance to third on Timmons' base knock and crossed the plate when Freddie Freeman grounded into a double play. The run gave the Braves an early 1-0 lead.

The Mud Hens wouldn't be behind for long as Will Rhymes tripled to begin the home half. It was Rhymes' second consecutive triple, dating back to Monday's game in Indianapolis. Toledo evened things up on a Jeff Frazier sac fly.

The Hens would take the lead in the third. Jon Weber, Jeff Kunkel and Rhymes all had singles to start the half inning. After Casper Wells struck out, Frazier hit a ground ball that could not be turned for two, scoring Weber from third. Rhymes advanced to third on Timmons' error. He scored on a balk by Gwinnett starter Ryne Reynoso (2-5).

Gwinnett regained the lead with four runs in the fifth. Like the Hens in the third, the Braves started off the inning with three straight singles. Matt Young hit the third and scored Josh Anderson on the grounder to center field. A double by Freeman made it 4-3 in favor of the Braves. Diory Hernandez continued the onslaught with an RBI single making it a 5-3 ballgame. The inning finally ended with a groundout to Joe Thurston.

The Hens loaded the bases with one out in bottom of the sixth but came away empty handed.

The Braves added another run in the seventh. With one out and runners on first and second, Hernandez hit an RBI double to put the Braves three clear of the Hens, 6-3.

Gwinnett got an insurance run in the ninth as Freeman hit a solo home run to give the Braves a 7-3 lead.

Rick Pocello (1-1) lost for the first time at the Triple-A level.

The Hens and Braves continue their series Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 9,430 - The 13th sellout of the season and 251st in Fifth Third Field history.
* Will Rhymes had back-to-back triples (Ninth inning Monday and first inning Tuesday).
* Gwinnett manager Dave Brundage was ejected prior to the top of the sixth inning.
* Ryan Perry made his 2010 Mud Hen debut.
* Ryne Reynoso struck out eight in five innings of work.

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

Leon homers but Hens fall to Gwinnett
By David Schoenholtz
06/30/2010 10:19 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens closed out the month of June by losing to the Gwinnett Braves 6-4 on Wednesday night at Fifth Third Field. It was the sixth consecutive sellout for the Mud Hens and 14th overall this season. Incidentally, it was also Toledo's sixth consecutive loss.

The Hens got to Gwinnett starter Jose Ortegano early, loading the bases in the bottom of the first inning on a pair of walks and a bunt single before Brent Dlugach lined a two-run single to center field.

The Braves responded with two runs of their own in the top of the second off L.J. Gagnier. Diory Hernandez singled, Mitch Jones walked, and Joe Thurston singled to plate Hernandez. After Gagnier struck out Josh Anderson, J.C. Boscan hit a slow ground ball to third. Jeff Larish threw home but Jones's slide just beat the tag by Jeff Kunkel, and the game was tied.

Barbaro Canizares hit a solo home run to give Gwinnett a 3-2 lead in the top of the third.

The Braves added another run in the fifth on a sacrifice fly off the bat of Hernandez.

The Mud Hens put two on with one out in the bottom of the sixth, but Gwinnett reliever Scott Proctor struck out Dlugach and Casper Wells to end the threat.

Toledo tied the game in the bottom of the seventh off Proctor. Max Leon led off the frame with his second home run of the season. Kunkel drew a walk and Will Rhymes laid down a bunt single. After Wilkin Ramirez flied out, Jeff Frazier singled off the third baseman's glove to load the bases. A Larish sac fly allowed Kunkel to come home to even the score at 4-4.

The Braves came right back with three runs in the top of the eighth with three runs on four singles off Brendan Wise (3-1).

Wise took the loss for Toledo, while Proctor picked up the win for Gwinnett. Michael Dunn earned his sixth save.

The Mud Hens are now 41-39 and continue to fall in the IL West standings.

The Hens continue their series with the Braves on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Game Time Temperature: 72 degrees
* Attendance: 9,247 - the sixth consecutive sellout for the Mud Hens and 14th overall this season.
* In the second and third innings, Gwinnett starting pitcher Jose Ortegano struck out five in a row.
* Jeff Frazier and Jay Sborz were named to the International

League All-Star team. The game, hosted by Lehigh Valley, will take place on Wednesday, July 14 at 7:00 p.m.

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

Mud Hens stymied by Minor's pitching, lose 4-2 to Gwinnett
By Kyle Rowland
07/01/2010 7:58 PM ET

TOLEDO, Ohio - Aided by superb pitching, the Gwinnett Braves defeated the Toledo Mud Hens, 4-2, Thursday night at Fifth Third Field. It is the sixth straight loss for Toledo.

Making his first career Triple-A start, Mike Minor (1-0) pitched like a polished veteran, striking out nine in 7.2 innings. He allowed just one run on three hits and walked three.

Gwinnett got four runs in the third. Jordan Schafer grounded out to begin the inning, but it would be the only out recorded among the first six batters. Josh Anderson and Clint Sammons hit back-to-back singles before Toledo starter Alfredo Figaro (6-6) walked Matt Young to load the bases. An infield single by Wes Timmons put the Braves up 1-0. Freddie Freeman's two-RBI single put Gwinnett up three runs. With two strikes to Barbaro Canizares, Timmons stole home to make it 4-0. Canizares struck out swinging on the play and Diory Hernandez popped out to end the inning.

It appeared that the Braves were going to get another run in the fifth, but Jeff Frazier had other ideas. With two outs and Freeman on second, Canizares hit a ball to left field. Freeman attempted to score on it but was out by several feet as Frazier's throw was on the money.

The Hens finally got on the hit and run column in the fifth. Jon Weber got the first Toledo hit of the game with one out. He would score on a Will Rhymes RBI single, closing the gap to 4-1.

Robbie Weinhardt came on to pitch 2.1 innings of relief, striking out two and allowing just one hit.

The Hens got one run in the bottom of the ninth to make it 4-2. Wilkin Ramirez hit an RBI single to score Ryan Strieby. Toledo got the winning run to the plate, but Casper Wells struck out to end the game.

Craig Kimbrel picked up his 10th save in 10 chances for the Braves.

The Hens and Braves play their series finale Friday at 7:00 p.m. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Wes Timmons was hit by two pitches and is now tied for the league lead at nine.
* Timmons also stole home successfully.
* Minor's line: 7.2 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 9 K
* Figaro's line: 6.2 IP, 8 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 2 BB, 7 K
* Robbie Weinhardt pitched 2.1 innings of relief. He allowed one hit, struck out two and walked none.

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

Hens fall to Gwinnett 6-3 on Friday
By David Schoenholtz
07/02/2010 10:20 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Mud Hens lost to the Gwinnett Braves 6-3 on Friday night at Fifth Third Field, getting swept in the four-game series. Toledo has now lost eight straight games.

The Hens got to Gwinnett starter Jo-Jo Reyes with two outs in the bottom of the first. Jeff Frazier drew a walk and scored from first on a Ryan Strieby double to the left-center field gap.

In the second, Jeff Larish's home run into the Roost extended the Mud Hen lead to 2-0. Toledo picked up an unearned run later in the inning on a double-steal. Jon Weber reached on an error, moved to third on a hit-and-run single by Justin Henry, and came home when Gwinnett catcher J.C. Boscan tried to catch Henry stealing second.

The Braves responded with an unearned run of their own in the top of the third off Billy Buckner (2-4). Josh Anderson reached on an error by Frazier and J.C. Boscan singled to put runners at first and third. After Matt Young struck out, Buckner walked Wes Timmons to load the bases. Freddie Freeman followed with a grounder to first that resulted in force out at second; Anderson scored on the fielder's choice. Buckner struck out Barbaro Canizares to end the rally.

In the fifth, Gwinnett's Wes Timmons took Buckner deep for a two-run shot to tie the game at 3-3.

The Braves would take the lead in the top of the sixth and chase Buckner. Joe Thurston drew a leadoff walk and was sacrificed to second by Jordan Schafer. A single by Anderson put runners on the corners, and Boscan came through with an RBI single to plate Thurston. Young followed with a double to score Anderson and send Buckner to the showers. Josh Rainwater came in and got Timmons to lift a fly ball to right field, which Wilkin Ramirez caught and fired home to nail Boscan, ending the inning.

The Mud Hens put two on with only one out in the bottom of the sixth, but Jon Weber's line drive found Thurston's glove, and Brent Dlugach was caught off second and subsequently doubled up.

In the top of the seventh, Freddie Freeman's ninth home run of the season made it a 6-3 game in favor of the visitors, which was the final score.

Buckner took the loss for Toledo, while Christian Martinez (2-1) picked up the win for Gwinnett. Michael Dunn earned his seventh save.

At 41-41, the Mud Hens drop to .500 for the first time since mid-May, when they were 18-18.

The Hens open up a three-game series with the Columbus Clippers on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Game Time Temperature: 80 degrees
* Attendance: 9,524
* Jon Weber's steal of home in the bottom of the second inning was the first for Toledo since Brent Dlugach accomplished the feat on May 9, 2009 vs. Lehigh Valley.
* Fu-Te Ni made his season debut for Toledo after spending the first few months of 2010 with the Tigers.
* Jeff Kunkel's eight-game hitting streak came to an end.

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

Lack of hits dooms Hens in 7-1 loss to Columbus
By Kyle Rowland
07/03/2010 8:57 PM ET

TOLEDO, Ohio - The Toledo Mud Hens unlucky streak continued Saturday night with a 7-1 loss to the Columbus Clippers. The Hens have now lost nine consecutive games.

Josh Tomlin (8-2) went seven strong innings for the Clippers, striking out six and walking two. He allowed just four hits.

Columbus started the scoring three batters into the game as Luis Valbuena hit a two-run shot off the Fricker's building in right field. It would have been a three-run homer had Michael Brantley not been caught stealing a batter prior.

The Clippers added to their lead in the fourth with two runs. Jared Goedert led off the inning with a single. Jordan Brown followed and reached base on an error by first baseman Ryan Strieby. An RBI single by Wes Hodges pushed the Clippers lead to 3-0. It would reach four runs when Toledo starter Ryan Ketchner (3-3) walked in a run with the bases loaded.

Scot Drucker came on in relief of Ketchner and struck out five of the first 10 batters he faced, including four straight. Then Columbus had three straight doubles to take a 6-0 lead. Nick Weglarz, Chris Giminez and Cord Phelps were responsible for the base hits.

Columbus scored its seventh and final run in the ninth.

The Hens only run came on a Ryan Strieby home run in the bottom of the ninth.

The Hens and Clippers continue their series Sunday at 6:00 p.m. Come out to Fifth Third Field to celebrate the Fourth of July! Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 9,716. It is the 16th sellout of the season and 254th in Fifth Third Field history.
* There were three ground rule doubles in the game.
* Will Rhymes stole his 18th base of the season.

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

Hens shut out by Columbus on Sunday
By David Schoenholtz
07/04/2010 8:28 PM ET

(Toledo, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens suffered their tenth consecutive loss, 6-0, to the Columbus Clippers on Sunday night at Fifth Third Field.

A one-out triple by Columbus second baseman Cord Phelps in the top of the first was followed by a Luis Valbuena sacrifice fly to give the Clippers an early 1-0 lead against Rick Porcello (1-2).

The Hens loaded the bases against Columbus starter David Huff (3-0) in the bottom of the fourth, but Huff got Jon Weber to pop out in foul territory to end the threat.

The top of the fifth inning saw the visitors extend their lead to 5-0. Porcello gave up a hit to Wes Hodges and walked Nick Weglarz and Lou Marson to load the bases. The next four Columbus batters singled, and when the inning was over, the Clippers had batted around.

In the top of the eighth, Casey Fien allowed Jared Goedert's 11th home run of the season to make it a 6-0 game in favor of Columbus.

In the bottom of the ninth, Jeff Kunkel drew a two-out walk and moved to third on a double by Will Rhymes, but Justin Germano closed the door on the Hens by getting Max Leon to ground out to shortstop.

Porcello took the loss for Toledo, while Huff earned the win for Columbus.

The Mud Hens fall to 41-43, 11 games back of the first-place Clippers.

The Hens wrap up their seven-game homestand on Monday at 5:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Game Time Temperature: 93 degrees
* Attendance: 10,300
* Toledo manager Larry Parrish was ejected in the top of the fifth inning.

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

Toledo loses lead, game in ninth inning; Clippers win 5-4
By Kyle Rowland
07/05/2010 6:38 PM ET

TOLEDO, Ohio - The Toledo Mud Hens lost, 5-4, to Columbus Monday in heartbreaking fashion. The Hens took a one-run lead into the ninth inning, but gave up two runs to squander its lead.

Toledo has now tied a modern era (1965-present) record with 11 consecutive losses. The Hens also lost 11 straight in 1990 and 1999.

The Clippers got on the board in the most unlikely of fashions as Nick Weglarz hit an inside-the-park-home run in the top of the second. The ball was hit to dead center and bounced straight left off the wall. By the time Wilkin Ramirez ran it down, Weglarz was already rounding third. Lou Marson reached base on an error by Max Leon and was driven in on an RBI double by Cord Phelps to make it 2-0 Columbus.

The Hens came back in the bottom half to take the lead, 3-2. Ryan Strieby led off the festivities with a double. After three consecutive singles by Jeff Frazier, Max Leon and Jon Weber, the game was tied. With the bases loaded, Jeff Larish hit a ground ball that was turned into a third to first double play, allowing Max Leon to score and put the Hens up 3-2.

The Hen lead was short-lived as Columbus came back in the fourth to knot it up at four. Lou Marson reached base on a walk before stealing second. He scored on a ball that was misplayed by Leon.

Toledo retook the lead in the fifth. Justin Henry doubled to lead off the inning and was sacrificed to third on a bunt by Jeff Kunkel. Ramirez followed him up with an RBI single and the Mud Hens were again in business leading 4-3.

Jay Sborz (1-3) came on to close the game in the ninth, but Columbus had other idea. Cord Phelps began the inning by walking. Jose Constanza followed with a walk. After a sac bunt, the Clippers had runners on second and third. Sborz then intentionally walked Jordan Brown to load the bases and set up the double play. Unfortunately, Jared Goedert laced a double to left field and Columbus took a 5-4 lead. The Hens were able to get out of the inning with a double play after the Clippers base runners got in a run down.

Vinnie Pestano came on in the bottom of the ninth to collect his fifth save.

The Hens begin a four-game road trip Tuesday with a 7:05 start at Columbus. They play two at Columbus followed by two in Louisville. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Justin Henry played first base for only the third time in his career.
* Weglarz's inside-the-park-home run was the first at Fifth Third Field since Toledo's Andres Torres in 2007.
* There have been five ground rule doubles in as many games at Fifth Third Field.
* Brent Dlugach replaced Max Leon in the top of the seventh.
* Jensen Lewis upped his record to 2-0.

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

Hens break out bats to give Parrish milestone win
By David Schoenholtz
07/06/2010 10:43 PM ET

(Columbus, OH) - The Toledo Mud Hens racked up 14 hits on their way to a 9-4 victory over the Columbus Clippers on Tuesday night at Huntington Park. It took 12 tries, but Larry Parrish finally passed Cal Ermer as the winningest manager in Mud Hens history with his 541st victory.

The Hens struck first on Jeff Frazier's International League-leading 28th double and a single by Brent Dlugach in the top of the second inning.

Toledo added to its lead in the top of the third against Columbus starter Jeanmar Gomez (6-8). With two outs, Scott Sizemore and Will Rhymes hit back-to-back doubles. Ryan Strieby followed with a single and the Hens were up 3-0.

Columbus got on the board in the bottom of the inning thanks to an error by Toledo starter Alfredo Figaro (7-6). Josh Rodriguez drew a one-out walk, and in an attempt to pick him off at first base, Figaro threw the ball away, allowing Rodriguez to go all the way to third. Jordan Brown then doubled to make the score 3-1.

A sacrifice fly by Rhymes in the top of the fifth made it a 4-1 game in favor of the Mud Hens. Jeff Larish's double later in the inning scored Sizemore

The Mud Hens broke the game open in the top of the sixth inning. Jon Weber walked to open the frame and went to second on a Dlugach single. Both runners moved up on a Wilkin Ramirez ground out. On Robinzon Diaz's ground ball to third, Weber was hung up off the bag, but Jared Goedert's throw home was wild and Weber scored as Diaz and Dlugach wound up on second and third, respectively. After Sizemore singled to drive in two more, Rhymes's second double of the night plated Toledo's ninth run.

Goedert led off the bottom of the sixth with his 12th home run of the year to cut the Mud Hen lead to 9-2, and Columbus picked up another run in the seventh on a Cord Phelps walk, a single by Jose Constanza, and a double by Rodriguez.

The Clippers continued to chip away in the bottom of the eighth, but Scot Drucker got Rodriguez to pop out with two runners on to end the inning and send the game to the ninth with the Mud Hens leading 9-4.

Josh Rainwater came on in the ninth and closed out Columbus to give the Hens their first win since June 24th.

Figaro earned the win for Toledo, while Gomez took the loss for Columbus.

The Mud Hens improve to 42-44 and hold onto third place in the IL West.

The Hens wrap up their five-game, two-city series on Wednesday in Columbus before heading on to Louisville for a two-game set with the Bats. They return to Toledo to host the Indianapolis Indians on Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Scott Sizemore was activated from the disabled list before the game and led off for the Mud Hens.
* A Toledo pitcher threw a quality start for the first time since June 24, when Rick Porcello held Louisville to an unearned run over eight innings of work.
* Larry Parrish won his 541st game as manager of the Mud Hens, passing Cal Ermer for first on the all-time list of Toledo skippers.

Larry Parrish Becomes All-Time Wins Leader Among Toledo Managers!

Parrish passes Cal Ermer with win No. 541 against Columbus on Tuesday night...

Manager Larry Parrish became the all-time winningest manager in Toledo professional baseball history Tuesday as Toledo defeated Columbus, 9-4. The win was No. 541 for Parrish, passing Cal Ermer (manager for Toledo 1978-85).

Parrish is in his seventh season as Mud Hens manager. The 56-year-old led the club to Governors' Cup championships in 2005 & 2006 and was named the 2005 Sporting News Manager of the Year. Parrish has guided the Hens to a 541-522 record (.509) since 2003 and currently ranks 2nd in Toledo history in games managed at 1,056 (Ermer - 1,115).

This is Parrish's 13th season overall as a manager. He has a career record of 787-771. Along with his Governors' Cup titles with Toledo, Parrish led Single-A Niagara Falls to a New York-Penn League championship in 1993 and the Double-A Jacksonville Suns to the 1996 Southern League championship. He managed 185 games for the Detroit Tigers from 1998-99, compiling a record of 82-104.

MUD HENS ALL-TIME MANAGERIAL RECORDS

Larry Parrish 541 Cal Ermer 540 (1978-1985) Charles Strobel 497 (1896-1902)

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

Toledo defeats Clippers, 6-4, thanks to home runs
By Kyle Rowland
07/07/2010 7:54 PM ET

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Thanks to a barrage of home runs, the Toledo Mud Hens won their second consecutive game Wednesday, 6-4, over the Columbus Clippers. All six Mud Hen runs were scored off home runs.

The Hens jumped on the Clippers early, scoring three in the first. Scott Sizemore led off the game with a double, his second in as many days since coming off the DL, and was sacrificed to third on a bunt by Will Rhymes. After a walk to Ryan Strieby, Jeff Larish struck out for the second out in the inning. In stepped Jeff Frazier and out of the park went the pitch as Frazier belted a three-run home run to left to give Toledo a 3-0 lead. Jon Weber flew out to end the inning.

The Mud Hen lead expanded to 5-0 when Jeff Larish smacked a two-run homer in the third inning. Rhymes had reached base on a single.

Doubles by Josh Rodriguez and Jordan Brown in the fourth inning got Columbus on the board, but Toledo answered with a solo home run from Scott Sizemore in the fifth to put the Hens up 6-1.

The Clippers scored three runs in the bottom of the sixth to get within two runs. After a strikeout to begin the inning, Rodriguez singled. Luis Valbuena and Jared Goedert followed with back-back-to-back home runs to cut the Toledo lead to 6-4. Columbus added a double, but the Hens got out of the inning without any more damage.

Casey Fien picked up his fourth save of the season, while Billy Buckner improved his record to 3-4.

Yohan Pino (7-5) took the loss for the Clippers.

The Hens now travel to Louisville for a two-game series with the Bats. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m. Thursday. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Jeff Frazier hit his 16th HR of the season.
* Jeff Larish hit HR No. 14 on the year.
* Scott Sizemore hit his fourth HR of the season.
* Sizemore is 5-for-9 with three RBI, two doubles and five runs in two games since coming off the DL.

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

Hens win big in Louisville on Thursday
By David Schoenholtz
07/08/2010 10:13 PM ET

(Louisville, KY) - The Toledo Mud Hens continued their offensive outbreak, collecting 14 hits and defeating the Louisville Bats, 9-4, on Thursday night at Louisville Slugger Field.

The Bats scored first on an RBI groundout by Wladimir Balentien in the bottom of the second inning.

Toledo responded in the top of the third, batting around against Louisville starter Jesus Delgado (2-2). Wilkin Ramirez led off with a single, moved to second on a Jeff Kunkel groundout, and scored on a single by Scott Sizemore. Will Rhymes reached on a fielder's choice, Ryan Strieby singled, and Jeff Larish doubled to give the Hens a 3-1 lead. After Jeff Frazier was hit by a pitch, Jon Weber singled to drive in the fourth Mud Hen run.

Toledo starter Ryan Ketchner gave up three hits in the bottom of the fourth, but Strieby's throw from left field cut down Yonder Alonso to keep the 4-1 Mud Hen lead intact.

In the top of the fifth, Frazier singled to left field but was thrown out trying to stretch it into a double by his brother, Louisville's Todd Frazier.

A Zack Cozart RBI single in the bottom of the inning scored Wilkin Castillo to make it a 4-2 game. The next two hitters singled to knock Ketchner out of the game and tie the score at 4-4.

The Hens re-took the lead in the sixth. Weber and Brent Dlugach hit back-to-back singles and moved up on a wild pitch by Enerio Del Rosario. After Ramirez struck out, Sizemore and Rhymes walked to load the bases for Strieby, whose single up the middle brought in Dlugach and Sizemore to make it 7-4 in favor of Toledo.

A Max Leon home run and Frazier RBI single in the eighth extended Toledo's lead to 9-4, which was the final score.

Josh Rainwater (2-3) earned the win with 3.1 innings of scoreless relief, allowing just two hits and a walk while striking out three. Delgado took the loss for Louisville.

The Mud Hens move back to the .500 mark at to 44-44.

The Hens and Bats wrap up their two-game series on Friday. They return to Toledo to host the Indianapolis Indians on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Jeff Frazier was thrown out by his brother, Louisville's Todd Frazier, trying to stretch a single into a double in the top of the fifth inning.
* Jon Weber collected three hits in the contest.
* Josh Rainwater came out of the bullpen to throw 3.1 scoreless innings in relief of Toledo starter Ryan Ketcher.

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

Edinson Volquez overpowers Toledo in Louisville's 3-0 victory
By Kyle Rowland
07/09/2010 9:17 PM ET

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The Toledo Mud Hens three-game win streak came to an end Friday night in a 3-0 defeat to Louisville. The Hens had just two hits in the game.

Edinson Volquez (3-0) had a no-hit bid broken up with two outs in the sixth inning. Volquez, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, struck out nine in seven innings. He allowed one hit and walked three.

The Bats got on the board in the bottom of the fourth with three runs. Todd Frazier led off the inning with a walk before Juan Francisco struck out swinging. After a ground out by Daniel Dorn, Drew Sutton came through with an RBI single to score Frazier from second. The Bat lead was extended to 3-0 with a Chris Valaika home run. Toledo finally got out of the inning with a fly out by Chris Denove.

The Hens first hit came from Jeff Larish with two outs in the top of the sixth. Jon Weber got the other hit in the eighth.

Carlos Fisher collected his third save of the season, pitching a perfect ninth.

Scot Drucker (2-4), who made a spot start for the Hens, gave up three runs in four innings of work.

The Hens return to Fifth Third Field Saturday for a two-game series with Indianapolis before the All-Star Break. First pitch for Saturday's game is set for 7:00 p.m. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Volquez's line: 7 IP, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 H, 3 BB, 9 K
* Jeff Larish and Jon Weber had the Mud Hens' only two hits.

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

Toledo loses lead, game in ninth inning; Indy wins 3-1
By Kyle Rowland
07/10/2010 8:06 PM ET

TOLEDO, Ohio - The Toledo Mud Hens lost a heartbreaker, 3-1, to the Indianapolis Indians before a sellout crowd Saturday night at Fifth Third Field. The loss extended a ballpark record eight-game losing streak.

Rick Porcello (1-2) went seven innings, striking out seven, walking three and allowing six hits. However, he received a no-decision.

The teams combined for six hits in the first four innings and only two fly outs to the outfield.

The Hens got on the board in the bottom of the fifth. Casper Wells walked to lead off the inning before a Max Leon single. Wells advanced to third on the play. Jeff Kunkel then hit a shallow fly out to left, but Wells tagged anyway and scored, giving Toledo a 1-0 lead. Leon tried to stretch the lead to 2-0 on a base hit by Jon Weber, but he was thrown out at the plate to end the inning.

Jay Sborz came on for the save in the ninth, but it wasn't to be. Alex Pressley had a bunt single to lead off the inning. After Carlin walked, Jonathan Van Every hit a three-run home run to put Indianapolis ahead 3-0. Toledo would get out of the inning without giving up another run, but they did not threaten in the bottom half.

It is the second consecutive home game Sborz has blown a save in the ninth and the Hens have gone on to lose the game.

Jean Machi (5-2) got the win for Indy.

The Hens and Indians close out the first half of the season Sunday at 6:30 p.m. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Mud Hens players and coaches wore Hawaiian themed jerseys tonight. The jerseys were auctioned off with all benefits going to the Rebuild Lake Schools Fund. Manager Larry Parrish will match the winning bid of his jersey, which was $415.
* Attendance: 10,300. It is the 18th sellout of the season and 256th in Fifth Third Field history.
* With the sellout, the Hens have gone over the 327,000 mark for season attendance. That total surpasses the highest season total while Toledo called Ned Skeldon Stadium home. They have accomplished the feat in just 44 games.
* Crotta's line: 6 IP, 5 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 4K
* Porcello's line: 7 IP, 6 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 3 BB, 7 K

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

Mud Hens close out first half of season with 6-4 loss to Indians; All-Star Break a welcome relief
By Kyle Rowland
07/11/2010 8:53 PM ET

TOLEDO, Ohio - The Toledo Mud Hens closed out the first half of the season with a 6-4 loss to the Indianapolis Indians Sunday night. Toledo has lost nine straight home games, a Fifth Third Field record.

After their three-run ninth inning last night, the Indians wasted no time getting on the board today, as they scored two batters into the game. Kevin Melillo led off with a double and Akinori Iwamura brought him home with an RBI single.

The Mud Hens didn't sit back, though. They answered with two runs in the bottom half of the inning to take a 2-1 lead. Will Rhymes led off with a single. After a strikeout by Brent Dlugach, Ryan Strieby doubled and the Hens had two runners in scoring position. A two-RBI single by Jeff Larish put the Hens in front. The inning came to an end when Casper Wells grounded into a double play.

After a rain delay of one hour and nine minutes, Gilbert De La Vera (0-1) made his Mud Hens debut by replacing Alfredo Figaro. He promptly gave up a solo home run to Melillo, which tied the game at two runs apiece. Iwamura and Brandon Moss would add in some base hits between two strikeouts to put the Indians in position to add more runs. That was exactly what they did on a check swing, two-RBI single by Erik Kratz. All of a sudden Indianapolis was leading 4-2.

The Indians were back at it in the fourth, scoring two runs. Alex Pressley singled to lead off the inning. He advanced to second on an Argenis Diaz single and third on a stolen base. He would score on a ground out by Melillo. Iwamura hit an RBI single to bring Diaz in to make it a 6-2 ballgame in favor of Indianapolis.

Will Rhymes hit his first home run of the season in the bottom of the fifth. The towering drive to right field glanced off the foul pole at the last moment as it attempted to go foul. The homer got the Hens within three runs.

Rhymes would score again in the seventh after he tripled. He came home on a ground out by Dlugach, cutting the score to 6-4.

Jeremy Powell (6-7) went 5.2 innings in relief, striking out three and walking three. He allowed two runs on two hits.

Jean Machi pitched to one batter in the ninth to collect his 12th save.

The Hens are off for three days for the Triple-A All-Star Break. They start off the second half of the season Thursday at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Attendance: 9,911. It is the 19th sellout of the season and the 257th in Fifth Third Field history.
* The start of the game was delayed 16 minutes due to rain and again in the bottom of the second for an hour and nine minutes.
* Jeff Larish extended his hit streak to 10 games.
* Will Rhymes hit his first HR of the season.
* Rhymes was a double short of the cycle.
* Toledo has lost a ballpark-high nine consecutive games.

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

Hens open second half with loss to Scranton
By David Schoenholtz
07/15/2010 10:12 PM ET

(Scranton, PA) - The Toledo Mud Hens returned from the All-Star break with a 12-5 loss at the hands of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees on Thursday night at PNC Field.

The scored first on a Will Rhymes home run in the top of the first inning against Scranton/Wilkes-Barre starter Sergio Mitre.

The Yankees responded in the bottom of the inning with an eight-run, two-out rally. After Billy Buckner (3-5) retired Reid Gorecki and Chad Tracy, two singles and a walk loaded the bases for Jorge Vazquez, who doubled to drive in two. Reegie Corona doubled to score two more, and Eric Bruntlett singled to make it a 5-1 game. A Greg Golson single and a walk to Gorecki re-loaded the bases before Tracy brought an end to Buckner's night with a bases-clearing double. Eduardo Nuñez greeted Gilbert De La Vara with a double to drive in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre's ninth run of the inning. All in all, the Yanks sent 13 men to the plate in the frame.

In the third, Rhymes doubled to plate Max St-Pierre and Scott Sizemore.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre added a run in the bottom of the fourth on a sacrifice fly by Jorge Vazquez.

Jeff Larish's 15th home run of the season cut the Mud Hen deficit to 10-4 in the top of the sixth, but the Yankees came back with a run in the bottom of the inning on a Nuñez double and a Jesus Montero single.

The Mud Hens continued to chip away in the top of the seventh. After Wilkin Ramirez struck out, Casper Wells drew a walk, St-Pierre singled, and Sizemore singled to bring home Wells.

Montero's solo homer in the bottom of the eighth capped the scoring at 12-5.

Tim Redding (5-4) came out of the bullpen to earn the win. Buckner took the loss for the Mud Hens, who fall to 44-48.

The Hens continue their series with the Yankees on Friday. They return to Toledo to host the Buffalo Bisons on Friday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m. Click for Upcoming Game Tickets | Box Score

Game Notes

* Jon Weber announced his retirement prior to tonight's game.
* Max St-Pierre, activated from the disabled earlier in the day, batted ninth for Toledo and collected three hits.
* Will Rhymes, who began the week without a home run all season, homered for the second consecutive game.

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