Mudcats edge Tennessee in extra innings

By News-Argus Staff
Published in Sports on June 26, 2007 1:47 PM

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ZEBULON -- John Purdom connected on the game-winning single in the 11th inning and Carolina edged Tennessee 2-1 in Southern League action Monday evening.

The extra-inning triumph snapped the Mudcats' 0-7 start in second-half play.

Tennessee (41-34 overall, 5-3 second half) forged a 1-1 tie in the seventh inning. After the Smokies cranked out back-to-back, one-out singles, Jorge Cortes drew a walk to load the bases. Shortstop Joe Simokaitis hit a grounder to third base and Carolina misplayed the ball defensively.

The Mudcats tied the game, which set up the thrilling finish.

Johnny Raburn delivered a lead-off double in the 11th. Lee Mitchell drew a walk to load the bases and Raburn scored on Purdom's bloop single to shallow right field.

Carolina reliever Jimmy Serrano, in his first start, threw five shutout innings. The former New Mexico standout, who has made 12 appearances this season, earned the no-decision after leaving with a 1-0 lead. Chris Mobley picked up his third win in a relief role.

Raburn staked the Mudcats (28-49, 1-7) to that one-run advantage in the fourth inning with a sacrifice fly. Raburn pounded out three hits, stole two bases and scored twice.

James Henderson (3-2) took the loss for the Smokies.

The teams continue their series today. Game time is 7:15 p.m.