Baker breaks ‘Birds Franchise Home Run Record by two strokes in comeback win

June 26, 2024 – International League (IL)
Memphis Redbirds news story

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Memphis Redbirds continued their six-game road trip with a 6-4 win over the Gwinnett Stripers (Triple-A, Atlanta Braves) Wednesday night at Coolray Field.

First baseman Luken Baker broke the Memphis Redbirds franchise home run record with two home runs in the comeback victory. With a runner on second in the sixth inning, Baker hit his 74th career home run with Memphis to cut the score to 3–2 and tie the record.

For insurance in the ninth, the right-handed hitter fired the record-breaker 450 feet down the left field line. Baker passed Nick Stavinoha on the Memphis Redbirds’ home run list. Baker broke the record in 803 fewer at bats and in 202 fewer games played than Stavinoha.

The Redbirds took the lead in the top of the ninth inning on a three-run home run by right fielder Matt Koperniak that preceded Baker’s home run. Koperniak’s game-winning long ball was the tenth of the season for the left-handed hitter, the third Memphis hitter to reach double figures in home runs.

With a bullpen game, Victor Santos (2-4) earned the win with 2.0 scoreless innings in relief. Right-handed reliever Ryan Loutos (S, 7) converted the save and remained solid in save opportunities this season. In total, Memphis used five pitchers in the win.

Game three of the series is scheduled for 6:05 PM CDT on Thursday, June 27 at Coolray Field. Michael McGreevy is scheduled to start for Memphis. Tune in to memphisredbirds.com for audio coverage live from Coolray Field, with the pregame show scheduled for 5:50 PM CDT.

The Memphis Redbirds return to AutoZone Park to kick off a three-game homestand against the Nashville Sounds on Tuesday, July 1, with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 PM CDT.

For more information about the 2024 Redbirds season, visit www.memphisredbirds.com. Additional information about ticket sales, promotions, theme nights and contests will be available throughout the season.

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