Toledo 8, Lehigh Valley 7: A seven-run first inning buried the IronPigs (29-25) early, with a comeback attempt falling short.
RHP Tom Eshelman (1-5, 7.06 ERA) retired the leadoff man but would then be tagged for seven runs and seven hits before being yanked. His ERA jumped over seven for the fourth time this season.
The bullpen gave Lehigh Valley a chance with just one run allowed the rest of the way and nine strikeouts total. That effort was almost enough to help upend the International League’s best team.
RBI doubles from CF Collin Cowgill and RF Danny Ortiz, and a sac fly from 2B Trevor Plouffe made it 7-3 after one inning.