712.277.WINS (9467)

Joplin, MO - The Sioux City Explorers get the 6-4 victory over the Blasters in Joplin Missouri.

Joplin recorded their first run in the second inning. With a runner at first and third base, Connor Sullivan ripped a single to left field, plating the runner at third to take the early 1-0 lead.

Explorers took the lead in the fifth inning. With a runner at first and two outs, X’s second baseman Bryan Johns smashed a two-run homer to give Sioux City the 2-1 lead after five innings of play.

Sioux City added two more runs in the sixth. The Explorers plated the first run on a wild pitch, scoring the runner at third base. Ralph Henriquez knocked in the second run with a sac-fly-RBI.

In the bottom half of the sixth, the Blasters tied it with one swing of the bat. Joplin’s third baseman Brandon Tierney belted a three run homer to tie the game at 4-4.

The Explorers went on to score two more runs in the contest, plating a run in the eighth and ninth innings. Tommy Mendonca singled to score a run in the eighth, and LeVon Washington knocked in a run with an RBI single in the ninth inning.

Explorers starter Jacob Kuebler finished with a no decision, allowing four runs in six innings pitched. PJ Francescon (1-5) received the victory pitching a scoreless inning.

Blasters starter Santos Arias finished with a no decision, giving up four runs in six innings. Alberto Castillo was charged with the loss, giving up an earned run in the eighth inning.

For 2016 ticket information to Mercy Field at Lewis and Clark Park, call (712) 277-WINS or visit the X’s website at www.xsbaseball.com