Fresh off three straight wins in Iowa that helped them climb to second in the International League second-half standings, the St. Paul Saints opened a weeklong series in Columbus, Ohio on Tuesday. The series didn’t get off to a good start. The Clippers hit five home runs on the way to a 19-3 victory in Tuesday’s series opener. Columbus scored three times in the first inning and six times in the second to not leave much doubt about the outcome. St. Paul actually led after Ben Ross’ home run opened the scoring in the top of the first. Walker Jenkins led off with a single and Ross followed with his 14th homer. But David Fry’s three-run homer in the bottom of the frame put the Clippers ahead for good. Kyle Manzardo had a three-run home run in the second. Milan Tolentino hit a grand slam for Columbus in the eighth to close the scoring. Ryan Gallagher stared for the Saints and allowed nine run on five hits and five walks in 1 2/3 innings. Later, Woo-Suk Go gave up five runs in an inning of work, surrendering two hits and walking six. In all, St. Paul pitchers had 12 walks. Gabriel Gonzalez hit his 13th home run for the Saints. The series continues Wednesday at 6:05 p.m. CDT. Related Articles
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