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The Sioux City Explorers took the loss to Wichita Saturday night, falling to the Wingnuts 8-1 at Lewis and Clark Park. The X’s currently lead Wichita 2-1 in the four game series. 

Wichita scored early and often in the contest, jumping to an early 7-0 lead after three and a half innings at Lewis and Clark Park. The Wingnuts plated two runs in the second inning and five in the fourth off of eight hits (one being a solo home run) and two errors. 

In the bottom half of the fourth, Sioux City plated their first run with a Brock Kjeldgaard solo-shot to cut the lead to six runs. 

The Wingnuts went on to take on one more in the seventh. Wichita first baseman Andy Laroche doubled to score a run and make it 8-1, which would go on to be the final score of the game. 

Explorers starter John Straka (10-3) was charged with the loss, allowing seven runs on twelve hits, two walks in four innings pitched. Right-hander Billy Bullock pitched in relief for three innings with a run allowed. X’s relievers Rob Wort and Jose Florers both pitched a scoreless inning out of the bullpen. 

Wichita’s starting pitcher Scott Richmond (5-1) received the win, going seven solid innings with one run allowed while recording seven strikeouts. Right-handers Brad Orosey and Paul Smyth both pitched a scoreless inning in relief. 

Sioux City had two batters finish the night with two hits. X’s designated hitter Brock Kjeldgaard went 2 for 3 with a solo home run, and Explorers catcher Matt Koch finished with two hits and a double.