The Tampa Yankees jumped out of the gates with nine runs in the first four innings, and even though the Fort Myers Miracle put together some offense late, the early deficit was too much to overcome in a 9-5 loss Saturday night at Hammond Stadium before nearly 5,000 fans.

Miracle starter Michael Tarsi (4-10) was battered in only three innings of work for the loss. The lefty gave up seven runs (six earned) on seven hits, including a first-inning three-run home run to Melky Mesa. The Yankees added two runs in the second, and one in the third to knock Tarsi out early.

The Miracle scored two runs in the first to cut the deficit to 3-2. Evan Bigley doubled to scored Brian Dozier, and Nate Hanson plated Bigley on an RBI double of his own.

After the Yankees scored six unanswered runs, the Miracle knocked out Tampa starter Craig Heyer with three runs in the sixth inning. Chris Herrmann brought home Bigley on a ground ball to first base, and Nick Romero hit a two-run triple. Heyer (6-2) lasted 5 2/3 innings for the win, allowing five runs on eight hits. He struck out two and walked none.

Down 9-5, the Miracle loaded the bases in the in the seventh, but Tampa reliever Noel Castillo struck out the side. The Yankee bullpen held the Miracle offense at bay the rest of the night.

The teams continue a four-game series Sunday afternoon.