Homers by Rodriguez, Miller Key Game 2 Win
July 27, 2016 - American Association (AA)
Texas AirHogs News Release
JOPLIN, Missouri - The AirHogs blasted their way to a Game 2 win in Joplin Tuesday evening, using key home runs by Devon Rodriguez and Mike Miller, as well as a big night from Michael Hur to earn a 6-4 victory. Cody Hebner went 5 2/3 innings to earn his 3rd W of the season on the mound. After first pitch was delayed more than 40 minutes due to inclement weather, the Blasters got to Hebner for 3 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks in the bottom of the 1st.But the AirHogs were immediately ready to respond. Devon Rodriguez led off the 2nd with his 3rd home run of the season to cut the lead to 3-1. After Michael Hur and Cody Lenahan singled, Mike Miller gave the AirHogs their 1st lead of the series with a powerful 3-run home run to left. The blast was the 6th of the year for Miller.
The team expanded the lead on the 1st of 2 doubles on the evening by Michael Hur. His 2-out shot in the 5th to the right field corner off Joplin starter Alex De La Cruz scored Brian Bistagne and Rodriguez to run the lead to 6-3.
Hebner settled down after a rocky opening. He held the Blasters scoreless from the 2nd to the 5th. They got to him in the 6th for a run, but relief man Tyler Harris stranded 2 to keep the the 6-4 advantage intact. Harris, Cody Culp, and Alan Oaks would hold the Blasters hitless and scoreless from the 7th through the 9th. Oaks struck out 2 in the 9th to pick up his 4th save and seal the victory.
The win was the 3rd of the season for Hebner, while De La Cruz suffered his 5th loss. The AirHogs (24-40) go for the series win tomorrow at 7:05. RHP Carlos Misell is expected to start for the AirHogs for the 2nd time this season.
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