MEMPHIS, Tenn." Aces starter Cesar Valdez worked six strong innings, but the Reno offense came up with just a run Tuesday afternoon, as the Memphis Redbirds rolled to a 3-1 win in the series finale at AutoZone Park.
Memphis scored three times in the first inning, and that margin would hold up.
The Aces pushed across a run in the second inning on an Abraham Nunez run-scoring groundball, but that was as close as they would get.
Valdez (1-4) was pinned with the loss, allowing three runs on six hits.
Out of the bullpen, Josh Ellis worked two scoreless frames with three punchouts in relief.
The victory went to Redbirds starter Blake Hawksworth (4-3), who scattered just a run on six hits over 6.1 innings of work. Josh Kinney delivered a 1-2-3 ninth inning to pick up the save.
After an off-day today, the Aces will return to Reno on Thursday to open-up an eight-game homestand at Aces Ballpark. First up is the New Orleans Zephyrs, Triple-A Affiliate of the Florida Marlins.
In the opener, RHP Tony Barnette (2-3, 6.23 ERA) gets the nod for Reno. The Zephyrs will counter with LHP Willie Collazo (2-2, 5.61 ERA). First pitch is set for 6:05 p.m. and it will be a Coors Light Thursday Night.
For tickets, stop by the Aces Ballpark Box Office, call (775) 334-7000 or visit www.RenoAces.com.