712.277.WINS (9467)

The Sioux City Explorers scored two runs in the first inning and never looked back getting the win over the Winnipeg Goldeyes 6-2. 

In the first, X’s centerfielder Matty Johnson started off the inning with a lead-off triple, to put a runner in scoring position right off the bat. Johnson scored on the next-at bat off a (6-3) groundout by Michael Lang. Back-to-back doubles by Rene Tosoni and Brock Kjeldgaard would score the second run of the game (Tosoni-run scored). 

Sioux City would go on to score another in the fifth, off an RBI single by Michael Lang that scored Tim Colwell from second base. In the seventh inning, Matt Koch led off with a single, advanced to second on a groundout, and then scored from second base off an RBI single by Matty Johnson. Johnson would later score the second run of the inning off back-to-back singles by Michael Lang and Rene Tosoni. Lang would go on to be the third run in the inning, when Noah Perio Jr hit a sac-fly to left. After seven innings, Explorers led 6-0 over the Goldeyes.

Winnipeg would manage to score two runs in the ninth inning. First baseman Casey Haerther started off the inning with a single. Winnipeg left-fielder Nic Jackson hit a two run homer on the next-at bat, to give Winnipeg their first two runs of the game. That would be the only runs the Goldeyes would score, with X’s relief pitcher setting the next three batters down in order. Final score, Explorers 6, Goldeyes 2. 

Winning pitcher would be Sioux City right-hander John Straka who went eight inning, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out eight on the contest. Coby Cowgirl would get the loss for Winnipeg going 6.1 innings, giving up four runs, eight hits and one walk while striking out eight. 

The Explorers had three hot-hitters Saturday night. Rene Tosoni went 3 for 4 with a double, RBI and runs scored. Matty Johnson had two hits, two runs, an RBI and a triple, and Michael Lang went 2 for 4 with two runs, an RBI and a stolen base. 

Sioux City will have an off-day on Sunday, but will start a four game series vs the Lincoln Saltdogs on Monday (June 15th) at Lewis and Clark Park.  For 2015 ticket information at Lewis and Clark Park, call (712) 277-WINS or visit the X’s website at www.xsbaseball.com