SHOREBIRDS DROP HEARTBREAKER, 2-1, TO TOURISTS

Berry Strikes Out Career Best Eight Batters

Asheville, N.C. – The Asheville Tourists plated a run in the eighth inning to defeat the Delmarva Shorebirds, 2-1, in game two at McCormick Field. The Shorebirds squandered numerous opportunities at the plate, going 0-for-13 with runners in scoring position.

Asheville was first to act in the bottom of the fourth inning. Joe Sanders drew a leadoff walk. Sanders then broke for second and Luis Bernardo fired to second, but nobody covered the bag as the ball skipped into center field. Sanders moved to third on the throwing error. Following a walk to Tyler Massey, Sanders scored on a groundout by Angelys Nina.

The Shorebirds responded immediately. Tyler Stampone energized ­­the ‘Birds with a sharp double down the left field line. A wild pitch pushed him to third and he scored on a groundout by Garabez Rosa.

In the eighth, the Tourists plated the go-ahead run. Randy Henry came on in replace of the Ryan Berry. Avery Barnes was hit by a pitch to start the frame. He moved to second on a groundout. Barnes then stole third base. With the infield playing in, Joe Scott grounded towards Ty Kelly at second, who lost the ball in the exchange to throw home and the Tourists took the lead.

Mikey Planeta led off the ninth with a double off the right field. The ‘Birds were unable to take advantage as Charles Ruiz ­­earned his fifth save of the season.

Sheng-An Kuo earned the win in 4.2 innings pitched. He allowed just three hits and one run. Henry was tagged with the loss.

Shorebirds starter Ryan Berry was excellent in seven innings. He surrendered just five hits and a run. Berry also fanned a career best eight batters.

The ‘Birds return to action on Friday night for game three against the Asheville Tourists. RHP Jake Cowan (2-0) makes the start for the Shorebirds.