The Omaha Storm Chasers’ bats remained quiet on Wednesday night, as they fell 3-0 to the Columbus Clippers in the series opener at Huntington Park. The loss marked Omaha’s second consecutive shutout defeat and extended their scoreless innings streak to 18.
Despite a solid outing from Storm Chasers starter Jonathan Bowlan, who allowed just one run on a sacrifice fly over four innings while striking out three, the Clippers managed to pull ahead in the fifth. Columbus first baseman Kyle Manzardo launched a two-run homer off reliever Dan Altavilla, accounting for all three of the Clippers’ runs in the game.
Omaha’s pitching staff combined for nine strikeouts, with Altavilla, John McMillon, and Tyler Duffey each recording two. Evan Sisk, McMillon, and Duffey combined for three hitless and scoreless innings to close out the game.
The Storm Chasers’ offense struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, mustering just three doubles and stranding all seven baserunners. Tyler Tolbert, John Rave, and Cam Devanney each hit a two-bagger, but the team failed to bring them home. Omaha’s best chance came in the sixth inning when Nick Pratto and Tyler Gentry drew walks, but CJ Alexander and Devin Mann both struck out to end the threat.
The Storm Chasers’ 18 strikeouts at the plate were their highest single-game total since September 18, 2022, when they also faced Columbus.
“We need to find a way to get our offense going,” said Storm Chasers manager Mike Jirschele. “Our pitchers are giving us a chance, but we have to start coming through with some timely hits. We’ll regroup and look to even the series tomorrow.”
Omaha (2-2) continues the six-game series against Columbus (2-2) on Thursday with a doubleheader at Huntington Park. The first game is set for 3:15 p.m. CT, with the second game starting approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of the opener.
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