712.277.WINS (9467)

The Sioux City Explorers shutout the Railcats for the second time this series, winning with a score of 2-0 at U.S. Steel Yard. X’s starter John Straka (7-1) went seven solid innings on the mound, without allowing a run with three strikeouts. 

The Explorers plated the first run of the game in the second off a solo home run by Explorers designated hitter Matt Koch to give them the early lead. In the third, the X’s scored one more.  Ino Patron ripped a single to center to start the inning, advanced to second off a base hit by Matty Johnson, moved to third on a fielders choice and then scored off a 6-4 groundout to extend the lead by two. 

Gary SouthShore would get shutout in back-to-back nights, losing 2-0 in nine innings. Explorers starter John Straka (7-1) received the win for Sioux City going seven strong innings without allowing a run. Right-hander Jose Flores (s-12) got the save tonight going 1-2-3 in the bottom of the ninth on two groundouts and a line out to second base. 

Railcats starter Rene Solis (0-5) was charged with the loss allowing two runs in six innings on five hits, and three walks while recording four strikeouts. Former Sioux City Explorer Chris Bodishbaugh came out of the bullpen tonight in Gary, pitching a scoreless eighth inning. 

Explorers lead-off hitter Matty Johnson extended his hitting streak to fifteen games tonight. The switch hitter hit on the right-side for the first time this season getting two hits in four at bats. X’s shortstop had a good night at the plate as well finishing with a double, an RBI and a stolen base. 

Sioux City will now head to Missouri to play a three game set vs the Joplin Blasters (25-16), who are currently in first place in the South Division. For 2015 ticket information at Lewis and Clark Park, call (712) 277-WINS or visit the X’s website at www.xsbaseball.com