Pauley, PawSox Edge Hens

What a difference 5 days makes.

Last Sunday PawSox starter David Pauley struggled in a loss to the Toledo Mud Hens. Since then Pauley apparently learned a thing or two as he dominated the Hens last night in Pawtucket's 3-2 win at Fifth Third Field in Toledo.

Pauley (12-3) worked 7 2/3 innings giving up only one run on five hits. He walked one and struck out nine throwing 99 pitches, 69 for strikes. The only run he allowed came in the eighth as it appeared fatigue was beginning to set in.

In last Sunday's 8-4 loss to Toledo at McCoy Pauley gave up five runs in only 3 1/3 innings of work.

The Mud Hens made the game interesting by coming to within a run in the bottom of the ninth. But PawSox reliever Chris Smith settled down and earned his 11th save.

Offensively the PawSox scored all their runs via the long ball. Joe Thurston belted his eighth homer of the season in the top of the first and Chris Carter added a two-run shot (his 21st) in the sixth. Carter's two RBI's give him a league lead 73 for the season.

Thurston, Carter, and Keith Ginter led the PawSox with two hits apiece. Brandon Moss returned to the club last night, playing first base and going 0 for 3.

Toledo starter Yorman Bazardo (4-6) pitched seven innings, giving up three runs on six hits. He walked three, struck out six, and gave up both PawSox homers.

With the win the PawSox are now 3-2 on this eight game road trip, winners of their last three. Game two of the four game set takes place tonight (7:00pm). Michael Bowden (0-1) makes his second start for the PawSox. He'll be opposed by Eddie Bonine (10-2) for the Hens.

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