COLUMBUS – A three-run third led the Clippers to a 5-4 series-opening victory over the Indianapolis Indians on Monday night at Huntington Park.
Columbus broke a 1-1 tie in the third on Ronny Rodriguez’s second home run of the season, off Indians starter Tyler Eppler. With Eric Stamets on second base, Richie Shaffer lifted a fly ball to the warning track in right field where Christopher Bostick lost the ball in the twilight, allowing Stamets to score. Giovanny Urshela then drove a run-scoring double to deep center field, making it 4-1.
Travis Banwart (1-2) earned the win by scattering eight hits during with 5 2/3 innings of one-run ball.
Eppler (3-2) took the loss after yielding four earned runs on eight hits over six innings.
The Clippers and Indians continue their five-game series with a doubleheader Tuesday night at Huntington Park.