For the last two months, the Columbus Clippers’ offense has propelled the team to a first place spot in the second half of this season. The bats have cooled in the first two games against the Durham Bulls in this week’s six-game series. On Tuesday, the Bulls’ pitching held the Clippers to three hits en route to a second straight 5-1 win.

Also for the second straight game, Durham scored two runs in the top of the first inning. The Clippers responded with a run in the second when Johnathan Rodriguez hit his team-leading 23rd home run of the season. The Bulls added a run in the third and two runs in the eighth to seal the victory.

Columbus starter Triston McKenzie (3-4) was charged with the loss. He gave up three runs on eight hits and one walk, striking out three. Ian Seymour (3-1) earned he win for the Bulls. Durham relievers Michael Gomez and Mason Montgomery combined to blank Columbus for the final four innings.

Columbus and Durham take the day off Wednesday and resume their series Thursday with a game at 6:35 p.m. Ryan Webb (2-0) will take the mound for the Clippers Thursday.