ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The Asheville Tourists opened a six-game road series Tuesday night with a 1-0 loss to the Greensboro Grasshoppers at First National Bank Field, as a single swing proved the difference in a pitchers’ duel.
The teams combined for just six hits, with three apiece, in a game dominated by strong outings on the mound.
Asheville threatened in the fifth inning, putting runners on the corners with two outs, but a caught stealing ended the scoring opportunity.
Greensboro broke through in the seventh when Axial Plaz hit a solo home run to center field off reliever Anthony Cruz (0-1), accounting for the game’s only run. Cruz took the loss despite allowing no walks and striking out three over four innings.
Starter Luis Rodriguez matched that effort for Asheville, pitching four scoreless innings with five strikeouts and no walks.
The Tourists mounted a final push in the ninth, placing a runner on second base with two outs, but a strikeout ended the game.
Owen Kellington (1-0) earned the win for Greensboro with two scoreless innings of relief, while starter Carlson Reed struck out seven over four innings. Junior Flores recorded his first save by closing out the ninth.
The teams are scheduled to meet again at noon Wednesday for the second game of the series.
