The Memphis Redbirds wrapped up a six-game road stretch with a thrilling 7-6 victory in extra innings against the Charlotte Knights (Triple-A, Chicago White Sox) on Sunday in Charlotte.
Marking their first extra-inning bout of the season, Memphis showcased resilience. Trailing by two runs in the ninth inning, the Redbirds leveled the score with a groundout and a wild pitch. Their momentum carried into the tenth inning when second baseman Thomas Saggese drove in a crucial run with a single. Adding an insurance run on a wild pitch, Memphis secured the lead.
Pitcher Adam Kloffenstein delivered a commendable performance in his second start of the series. The right-hander conceded only one run on three hits across 5.0 innings, exhibiting control despite issuing four walks. His lone blemish came in the form of a leadoff solo home run in the bottom of the first inning.
Contributing to the offensive prowess, right fielder Jordan Walker and catcher Gavin Collins each notched pivotal doubles, driving in runs. Walker's stat line included a double, two RBIs, and three walks, while Collins managed a double and two RBIs in a 1-for-4 performance. Impressively, eight of the nine batters reached base safely, with seven recording at least one hit.
Memphis (17-15) move to fifth in the International League West standings. The road warrior Birds have a 10-7 record away from AutoZone Park, the best mark in the division.
With their spirits high, the Memphis Redbirds head back to AutoZone Park to kick off a 13-game homestand against the Norfolk Tides on Tuesday, May 7, with the first pitch scheduled for 6:45 p.m. CD
