Final score: Akron 4, Trenton 2

Synopsis: Rocking a most unorthodox outfield alignment, the Thunder couldn't overcome lefty T.J. House and his seven innings of one-run ball. Ben Copeland's bases-clearing triple -- uncatchable by even the greatest of outfielders -- was the deciding blow. 

Bright spots: Cody Johnson homered again, his league-best 11th of the year. If he pulled the ball at all in two at-bats following the homer, he'd have had three bombs. As it is, he'll have to settle for leading the team in batting average, HRs, RBIs and doubles.

In addition to his two hits, Kevin Mahoney, stuck in right field for the first time in his career, also came up with an outfield assist. His peg from shallow right cut down Chun Chen at the dish in the fourth. 

Ryan Pope pitched 2 2/3 innings of scoreless ball, the first time since April 27 that he's had a scoreless outing that last more than an inning. 

Trenton also turned three double plays, moving its season total to 42. 

Rehab over: Tony Franklin hinted before the game and confirmed afterward that Zoilo Almonte and Jose Pirela are on their way back from rehab work in extended spring. Almonte had been out since April 20 with hamstring spasms, and Pirela had been gone since April 12 with concussion-like symptoms. Almonte came up lame stealing second base, and Pirela was struck in the helmet by a 95  mph fastball from Portland's Chris Martin.

You can see videos of both injuries below.

Picks to click: Here are my game story and notes from Wednesday. I'll be there on Thursday, but Mike Ashmore (I'm sure you know him)