Round Rock, TX (March 30, 2024) – The Round Rock Express (1-1) held on for an 8-6 victory over the Space Cowboys (1-1) on Wednesday night at Dell Diamond. One of the Rangers top pitching prospects, Jack Leiter, impressed in his 2024 debut. It was also his Dell Diamond debut.
Lorenzen got the start
Taking the mound instead of Leiter was recently signed veteran Michael Lorenzen. Lorenzen pitched 2.2 innings, allowing three runs on three hits and two walks while striking out three batters.
Leiter Flashes Potential
Jack Leiter, making his first start at home for the Express, showcased his talent. Despite allowing two runs on two hits over five innings, Leiter dominated with his fastball, striking out a remarkable nine batters on just 66 pitches. His four-seam fastball reached velocities of 96 mph and proved to be a strikeout machine.
Church Secures the Save
Marc Church earned his first save of the season (1-0). He pitched a scoreless inning, allowing one run, one hit and one walk while striking out one batter.
Express Bats on Fire
The Express offense erupted for 15 hits, setting the tone for the win. Jonathan Ornelas led the charge, going a perfect 4-for-4 with a home run, two RBIs, and two runs scored.
Additional multi-hit performances came from Justin Foscue (2-for-5, RBI), Dustin Harris (2-for-4, 2 R), Trevor Hauver (2-for-4, RBI), and newcomer Andrew Knapp (2-for-3, RBI). Davis Wendzel joined the offensive party with his first home run of the season.
Hernández Makes Game-Saving Play
Express center fielder Elier Hernández made a game-saving play. He robbed a game-tying home run, preserving the victory for the Express. Hernández went 1-for-4 with a walk and run.
Looking Ahead
The Express aim to win the series as they face the Space Cowboys again today for the series finale.
First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 PM at Dell Diamond.
