McCaughan Tosses Fourth Quality Start, Rainiers Struggle to Muster Run Support

Reno stymied the Rainiers bats Friday night at Cheney Stadium as Tacoma dropped the second of their six-game set with the Aces, 2-1. Righty Darren McCaughan delivered his fourth quality start with the Rainiers this season, allowing just two runs and striking out seven across six innings.

Aces starter Josh Green (6-1) hurled 7 2/3 innings of eight hit ball and surrendered a lone run. The Reno (33-17) defense shined behind him, turning four double plays and preventing any Tacoma (26-22) scoring opportunities before they were able to develop.

McCaughan (4-3) tossed four shutout frames before the Reno batters got to him. A solo home run from Aces catcher Michael De La Cruz in the 5th followed by an RBI double from first baseman Seth Beer provided Reno with all the runs they would need as they claimed the 2-0 lead.

McCaughan went an additional inning, tallying a final line of six hits, two earned runs, one walk, and seven strikeouts over six innings.

Tacoma avoided the shutout thanks to second baseman Donovan Walton’s 2-out RBI single that scored shortstop Jake Hager and cut the Reno lead in half, 2-1.

Reno southpaw Miguel Aguilar sat the Rainiers down in order in the 9th to seal the win for the Aces. He recorded his second save in as many days, notching his seventh save on the year.

Catcher Cal Raleigh returned to his spot behind the dish for the first time since June 28 and made a defensive impact. Raleigh caught two baserunners stealing and prevented Reno from making any more moves on the bases.

Donovan Walton and left fielder Luis Liberato each had two singles on the night, but Tacoma failed to record an extra-base hit as they managed a lone run on the night.

The Rainiers and Aces will continue their six-game set Saturday night at Cheney Stadium with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 p.m. PT.

Rainiers broadcaster Mike Curto will have full coverage on TacomaRainiers.com. All 2021 Rainiers games, home and away, can also be heard for free on the MiLB First Pitch app.