Five-Run Third Earns AirHogs Series Split

Published on May 16, 2011 under American Association (AA)
Grand Prairie AirHogs News Release


GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas -- The first time through the batting order, Gary SouthShore RailCats pitcher Derrick Gordon retired eight of the nine Grand Prairie AirHogs he faced on Sunday night. But the next six hitters all reached and five of them scored - enough to give the AirHogs a 5-4 victory and a season-opening series split in front of 4,585 at QuikTrip Park.

The fateful bottom of the third began with a strikeout and a groundout, but Kevin Thompson then drew a walk and stole second. David Thomas then also drew a free pass, before Cesar Nicolas smashed the first Grand Prairie home run of the season, a long drive high off the batter's eye in center field. Another walk to Greg Porter and a single by David Esponosa started things moving for the AirHogs (2-2) again, and John Alonso made Gordon (0-1) pay for his wildness with a two-run double to right that just missed clearing the wall.

After that, Grand Prairie hardly threatened again, but Jae Jung (1-0) and two relievers held on to the lead. Jung allowed a double and two singles to start the game and was behind 1-0 quickly, but allowed only one unearned run until the sixth inning. Jung tired and departed with two on in the sixth, and Rico Salmon allowed a two-out, two-run double to Brian Kolb to bring the RailCats (2-2) to within a run.

Salmon settled down, though, getting a groundout to end the sixth, and he continued to hold Gary off the board through the next to frames. Closer Jon Hunton then picked up his second save in as many days, striking out three and stranding two runners in scoring position after a strikeout-wild pitch, a walk and another wild pitch.

Notes: RailCats third-base coach CJ Thieleke was ejected before the bottom of the eighth inning, which prompted more arguments and ejections to manager Greg Tagert and catcher Mike Valadez. Having used Valadez off the bench, the RailCats were forced to bring in first baseman Jeff Beachum to catch for the first time in his career...Gary scored the final run of each of the four games in the series...The RailCats outhit the AirHogs 39-30 in the four games, but the AirHogs drew16 walks while only issuing nine.

Once again, the AirHogs are reminding you to sign up for their new text messaging service. Simply text "gpairhogs" (one word, no quotation marks) to 90210 and receive a special thank-you gift for signing up - $5 off any ticket for the AirHogs opening homestand from May 12-18. Simply show the message you receive back when you buy your ticket.

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The AirHogs now welcome in the Lincoln Saltdogs for a three-game series, beginning at 7:05 p.m. on Monday, May 15.It is Military Appreciation Night, with all members of the military, fire and police departments able to purchase the best seats available for $5. Don't miss the renewed commitment to excellence and affordable family entertainment. All games are available with live, free streaming video on ustream.tv. Individual game tickets are on sale and can be purchased by calling 972-504-9383 or by visiting www.airhogsbaseball.com.

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American Association Stories from May 16, 2011


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