SEVIERVILLE - The Tennessee Smokies struggled at the plate when it counted most Wednesday night, stranding 14 runners in a 3-1 loss to the Huntsville Stars at Smokies Park.

The loss, in front of 2,581 fans, evens the six-game series at two games a piece, and puts the Smokies at 5-5 in the season's second half, 37-43 overall.

Tennessee starter Jeremy Papelbon was on his game Wednesday night, shutting out the Stars through the first five innings. He allowed only three hits and three walks, striking out three. Papelbon would leave after the fifth inning and not factor into the decision.

Former Smokies pitcher Mark Holliman (7-2) picked up the win for Huntsville, allowing one run on seven hits in 5.2 innings. Holliman walked one and struck out four.

Tennessee and Huntsville square off in Game 5-of-6 Thursday night at Smokies Park.