Express fans were eager to see Jack Leiter’s second outing on the mound after his impressive debut where he struck out nine batters over five innings. While Leiter displayed flashes of brilliance again tonight, the Express ultimately fell to El Paso by a score of 7-2.
Leiter Battles in Chilly Conditions:
Leiter took the mound in El Paso where the temperature was a cool 59 degrees at first pitch. His fastball velocity was down a tick compared to his debut, but he still managed to strike out six batters over 3.1 innings. Leiter allowed three hits, two runs (one earned), and walked three batters on 77 pitches, 42 strikes.
Express Early Offense Fades
The Express jumped on the board first in the top of the third inning thanks to an RBI double by Davis Wendzel and a single by Sandro Fabian. However, that would be the last time they would score.
Leiter Exits, Bullpen Struggles
El Paso Explodes in Fifth
The wheels came off for the Express bullpen in the fifth inning. Shane Greene allowed four runs on two hits and three walks, giving El Paso a commanding lead.
Despite outhitting El Paso 9-7, the Express offense was unable to overcome the pitching struggles. Sandro Fabian and Dustin Harris led the way with two hits apiece.
Looking Ahead
The Express look to salvage a split in the six-game series when they take on El Paso tomorrow afternoon at 1:05 PM.
