Early Ibanez homer powers Express past ‘Cakes, 5-1

ROUND ROCK, Tex. – Andy Ibanez crushed a first inning three-run home run and the Round Rock Express defeated the New Orleans Baby Cakes, 5-1, in the final game of a four game series.

Cristhian Adames opened the scoring with a solo home run in the top of the first inning. The Express answered with three runs in the bottom of the first inning. The Express added a pair in the second inning with back to back two out doubles to extend the lead to 5-1.

Round Rock starter Adrian Sampson pitched six innings, allowed one run on five hits for his seventh win of the season. Jeff Brigham lasted five innings and dropped to 5-2.

New Orleans (66-66) got two hits from Peter O’Brien and Chris Bostick.

The Baby Cakes had won five consecutive series matching a franchise record. The series spilt in Round Rock will end the streak.

GAME NOTES: Miami Marlins outfielder Lewis Brinson on a Major League Rehab assignment went 1-for-4. The ‘Cakes finish the road schedule with a 30-40 road record, but won 11 of their last 15 road contests.

UPCOMING: New Orleans returns home for the final home-stand of the season. The ‘Cakes host Nashville in the penultimate series, Tuesday night at 7pm for a three game set. ‘Cakes will host Omaha this weekend for the final four games.

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