Jeff Niemann, who had yet to make a start since being optioned to Durham on April 18, returned to the mound for the Durham Bulls on Friday night. Niemann was working on a pitch count, but seemed to pitch well in his brief appearance. Niemann worked 3.0 innings, allowing no runs and only 1 hit. He also struck out 4 and surrendered zero free passes.
Juan Salas did not perform as well in his AAA debut. After pitching a perfect 4th inning, Salas was rocked for 5 ER in the 5th inning and took the loss for Durham. He did post a 4:1 K/BB ratio in his two innings of work.
Justin Ruggiano was 2 for 4 and hit his 2nd home run of the season.
