PL Idaho Falls Chukars

Chukars Clinch 1st Playoff Berth Since 2007

Published on September 5, 2013 under Pioneer League (PL)
Idaho Falls Chukars News Release


Orem, UT -- The longest playoff drought in the Pioneer League is over. Idaho Falls is playoff bound for the first time since 2007. The Chukars built a huge lead and left little room for doubt. Greybirds power past the Orem Owlz 12-7.

The Chukars (40-32, 21-13) knew the scenario heading into the game. The magic number to clinch a playoff spot was 2. Meaning that any combination of Idaho Falls wins and Orem losses totaling the number would send the team to the playoffs. A win would mean Orem lost, and the total of two would be reached.

The team's excitement manifested in the form of early runs. The Chukars delivered a signature two out rally in the 2nd. With two outs, Idaho Falls came through with five straight hits. Three of those went for extra bases. The big knock was a Carlos Garcia run scoring triple. It was enough run support for Chukars starter Patrick Conroy (6-2).

The squad added two more runs in the 3rd. Then in the fourth, Hunter Dozier showed off his power. The Royals first round draft pick launched a home run over the left field fence. The no-doubt-about-it blast gave the Chukars a 7-0 lead. Dozier walked in the next inning with the bases loaded to score another Chukars run. The following batter, Cody Stubbs, then broke the game open. The North Carolina product lifted a home run over the right field wall. The grand slam home put Idaho Falls in a comfortable position.

Orem did score two runs in the fifth and sixth, but Idaho Falls led by eight entering the ninth. Julio Rodriguez came in to close the game and send the Chukars to the playoffs. But the right-hander walked the first two batters of the frame before allowing two hits. Three Orem runs scored, but Rodriguez was able to get two outs. Raul Lineras proceeded to hit a ground ball come-backer to Rodriguez. The toss to first base gave Idaho Falls the second half division crown.

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Pioneer League Stories from September 5, 2013


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