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Bulls

Three-run first too much for Bulls in 5-2 loss at Norfolk

By The Durham Bulls

Apr 25, 2011

Norfolk, Va. — Edgar Gonzalez overcame a tough first to battle through seven innings, but the Bulls couldn't overcome a three-run deficit in a 5-2 loss to Norfolk.

Gonzalez (1-2) allowed a two-run homer to Josh Bell in the first and two batters later an RBI double to former Bull Rhyne Hughes. However, Gonzalez settled down after a 31-pitch opening inning.

He allowed only a solo home to Ryan Adams in the next six innings, saving a Durham bullpen which had worked 14 innings over a two-day stretch, both of them extra-inning games.

The Bulls were unable to get closer than 4-2 on a Desmond Jennings double in the seventh. Durham had eight hits and Norfolk committed three errors, but the Bulls went 0-for-10 with runners in scoring position. Durham had second and third in the eighth inning trailing 4-2, but Mark Worrell (2 saves) got a groundout to end the threat.

Josh Bell then homered for the second time for Norfolk (5-13) to start the bottom of the frame to close the scoring.

Durham (11-8) now heads to Louisville to begin a four-game series with the Bats. Air time is at 6:20 on Tuesday with first pitch at 6:35. LHP Alex Torres starts against RHP Johnny Cueto, who's on MLB rehab.