It’s really as simple as this: If the Rome Braves are going to challenge for the Southern Division’s second-half title, they’re going to have to start playing better at home.

Much better, in fact, than they played on the eight-game homestand that ended Tuesday afternoon with a 3-1 loss to the Asheville Tourists.

The Braves posted a 2-6 record on the homestand, and were limited to six hits or less in five of the eight games.

“We just couldn’t combine the hits together,” said Rome manager Randy Ingle. “Like today we out hit them but they were separated and they got all their hits really in that one inning.”

The Braves came into this eight-game homestand with hopes of strengthening their stronghold on first place in the Southern Division’s standings.

Instead, they were knocked out of first place for the time since the All-Star break. They are now one game behind Asheville and Charleston, who are tied for first place.

“We were swinging it really good and getting double digit hits to start the second half,” said Rome manager Randy Ingle. “But this series they threw some pretty good pitching at us and we just weren’t able to combine our hits together .”

The homestand did feature some high points, including a dramatic win on Sunday. But for the most part, things didn’t go well for the Braves, who were outscored 46-24 in the eight games.

The Braves have an off day tonight, then head to Savannah on Thursday for a four-game series that opens a eight-game road trip.

They return to SMS on Friday July 27 as they host Savannah.

TUESDAY’S GAME RECAP

Final: Tourists 3, Braves 1,

(State Mutual Stadium)

The turning point: The Tourists broke a tie game by scoring two runs in the fourth inning to take a 3-1 lead, and Asheville held on from there for the win.

Who did what for Rome: Ross Heffley had half of Rome’s hits as he went 3-for-5 and drove in the Braves’ only run.

On the mound: Greg Ross (2-7) had his longest outing of the season, but got the loss. Ross pitched eight innings, allowing three runs on four hits.

Game notes: The Braves (14-12) are now one game out of first place.

Next Game: The Braves have an off day today before beginning an eight-game road trip. Rome’s first stop is in Savannah for the series opener on Thursday at 7:05 p.m.



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