A slow start cost the Moose Jaw Miller Express on Tuesday night in Swift Current.

The Millers gave up three runs in the first inning, fell behind 5-0 after three and never recovered on their way to a 6-1 loss to the 57s in a key Eastern Division match-up.

57s clean-up hitter Kyle MacDonald smacked a three-run home run in the first inning to give Swift Current the early lead. He added another home run to lead-off the fifth inning in a big night for the first baseman.

Moose Jaw starter Tanner Emes struggled in his second start of the season, lasting just 4 2/3 innings, allowing six runs – five earned – on 11 hits. He struck out two and walked two.

Grant Westmoreland held the 57s in check during his 3 1/3 innings of relief. He allowed just one hit and a walk, while striking out three.

Despite Westmoreland’s strong finish to the game, the Millers’ offence was never able to get going, mustering just five hits in the loss.

Moose Jaw’s lone run came in the fourth inning when first baseman Ben Dalke doubled to center field, advanced to third on an error and then came around to score on a single from designated hitter Cutter McDowell, who was making his season debut in the game.

The Millers only put one runner into scoring position after the fourth as Swift Current’s bullpen pitched three innings of no-hit ball. 57s starter Dustin Wells picked up the win, allowing one unearned run over six innings. He struck out four and walked one.

As has been the case all season when the Millers lose, errors are usually an issue and Moose Jaw committed four errors in Tuesday’s contest.

The Millers will look to bounce back when they play their eighth straight road game on Wednesday night in Regina. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. at Currie Field.