712.277.WINS (9467)

The Sioux City Explorers get the series sweep winning the third and final game with a score of  7-6 Friday afternoon at Haymarket Park. Explorers second baseman Ryan Court knocked in the first two runs in the second with a two-run home run to give Sioux City the early 2-0 lead.

Lincoln tied it in the bottom of the third with two of their own. Ryan Wiggins doubled with a man on, moving the runner to third to put runners in scoring position, and then a Matt Forgatch two-run double tied it 2-2 after three innings. 

In the fourth, the Saltdogs plated three big runs to take the lead 5-2. CJ Ziegler led-off with a solo home run to start the bottom half. Later in the inning to more runs scored on a Brian Joynt RBI single, and a Matt Forgatch sac-fly RBI to extend the lead further. 

Sioux City went on to tie it in the top of the eighth. The X’s scored an unearned run on an error by the first baseman, and then two more crossed home later in the inning when Brock Kjeldgaard ripped a two run double to tie it at 5-5 after eight. 

In the ninth, the Explorers plated two more to retake the lead 7-5. Tim Colwell doubled to scoring a runner from first, and then scored himself ff an error by the shortstop. In the bottom half, Saltdogs scored a run to cut the lead to one, but would fall to the Explorers 7-6 to end the series.

Explorers starter Eric Wordekemper (4-2) got the no design allowing five runs in four innings. Right-hander Billy Bullock (2-0) came out of the bullpen for Sioux City with the win going two innings with no runs, and Rob Wort received the save for the X’s closing it out in the ninth to seal the series sweep. 

Explorers designated hitter Brock Kjeldgaard had the hot bat this afternoon going 2 for 4 with an RBI double. Ryan Court had a great day at the plate as well homering in the second inning with a runner on. 

The Sioux City Explorers will head home for a seven day home stand, playing a three game series vs Grand Prairie (August 1-3rd) and Fargo Moorhead (August 5-7th) For additional information, please call 712-277-WINS (9467) or email [email protected]