Chasers win fourth in a row behind strong pitching

Jeff Suppan won his 10th game of
the season. (File photo: Lee Warren)

Oklahoma City, OK – The Omaha Storm Chasers managed just two runs against Oklahoma City pitching Monday night at Bricktown Ballpark, but that was all they needed because Omaha starter Jeff Suppan and reliever Kevin Pucetas tossed a six-hit shutout.

The 2-0 Chasers win, their fourth win in a row, means the Chasers remain 5.0 games up on the second place Memphis Redbirds, who won at home tonight against Iowa, in the PCL American North.

One of the Chasers runs came on a controversial fielder’s choice in the second inning. With one out and Kila Ka’aihue at third base, Jarrod Dyson hit a chopper up the third base line. Oklahoma City starter Lucas Harrell fielded the ball and attempted to tag Ka’aihue but he appeared to tag him with his glove while the ball was in his other hand. Home plate umpire Brett Robson called Ka’aihue safe at home. Harrell argued and Robson ejected him. It was a controversial play all the way around because Dyson should have been credited with a hit on the play since he would have beat the throw to first base.

The Chasers picked up another run later in the inning on a sacrifice fly to center field by Johnny Giavotella. Salvador Perez scored on the play.

The RedHawks bullpen put the clamps on the Chasers offense after that, retiring 21 straight. Wesley Wright, Douglas Arguello, Mickey Storey and former Omaha Royals pitcher Jeff Fulchino combined to keep the Chasers off the board over the final 7.2 innings.

The Chasers managed just four hits. Lorenzo Cain was 1-for-4, Ka’aihue was 2-for-4 and Lance Zawadzki was 1-for-3.

Jeff Suppan won his tenth game of the season – his eighth win in his last nine decisions, dating back to May 11. He pitched seven innings, giving up five hits and four walks, while striking out seven. Suppan kept the ball down, inducing 13 ground outs. Pucetas pitched the final two innings, giving up one hit and one walk.

In the fifth inning, Dyson appeared to injury his foot or leg after he tried to beat out a grounder to first baseman Koby Clemens. He was called out and he limped back to the dugout. He was able to remain in the game.

The Chasers will attempt to complete the four-game series sweep tomorrow night in Oklahoma City. Luis Mendoza (7-4, 2.37) is scheduled to face RHP Nelson Figueroa (6-6, 6.23).