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Punxtawney split a pair of games with Phoenix in another battle with one of the top teams in the Defiant League.
In the first game, Punxtawney fell 11-5. Starter Bobby Thomas was annihilated in his first outing, lasting just 3 innings. Jose Valentin and Marty Cordova led the offense. Valentin was 3-4 and Cordova was 2-4 with a homer.
The second game was far more exciting. It was a 9-8 victory for the Hogs, a 9th inning win. Jason Giambi was 4-5 and drove in 5 runs with 2 homers. Ryan Klesko also homered. Starter Rocky Coppinger struggled through 5 2/3 innings, giving up 5 runs. Scott Ruffcorn didn't do much better, allowing a pair of unearned runs in 1 2/3. However, newly acquired Ricky Bottalico quenched the fire with an impressive 1 2/3 innings, giving up just 2 hits. He got his first win of the season as well.
Punxtawney OGGM Dan Shapiro had little to say after the game. "We aren't happy with these last few games. Too much offense, not enough pitching. Lieber should change that tommorow. If he and Dustin get shelled, then we'll have to reconsider our options. Still, this month is almost over and June is right around the corner. We're ready for it."
Written by Dan Shapiro