PCL1 Iowa Cubs

Iowa Sneaks by Memphis, Takes Series

Published on June 7, 2016 under Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Iowa Cubs News Release


DES MOINES - The Iowa Cubs (29-27) used a two-run sixth to take a permanent lead as they downed the Memphis Redbirds (23-33) 6-5, Tuesday at Principal Park.

Iowa starter Michael Wagner struck out a career-high seven batters through four innings and took a no-decision after allowing three earned runs on four hits and three walks. Cardinals' prospect Alex Reyes got the nod for the Redbirds and was chased after just 1.2 innings. Reyes allowed four earned runs on six hits and one walk, while striking out four Iowa batters.

Iowa was first on the board as Arismendy Alcantara took a leadoff walk and followed with his league-leading 21st stolen base, before Kawasaki sent a shot down the right-field line to bring in the I-Cubs' first run of the game.

After going down in order in the first, the Redbirds' bats came alive in the following frame. Dean Anna drew a walk to start the inning and advanced to third on a single to deep left-center by Michael McKenry. Reyes helped himself by sending a bases-clearing double down the left-field line to give the Redbirds a 2-1 lead.

Iowa powered back in the bottom of the inning. David Freitas led off with a single to right-center and then advanced to second on a stolen base, before Wagner followed with a single of his own, the first of his professional career, to put runners on the corners. Alcantara brought in Freitas with a sacrifice fly and Kawasaki singled to put two on once more. Matt Murton came through with a two-run double down the right-field line to bring in both runners to make it 4-2, Iowa.

Memphis surged back into the lead after scoring a run in each of the next three innings, taking a 5-4 edge after five.

The I-Cubs began their comeback effort in the bottom of the sixth. Freitas reached second on an outfield error and Logan Watkins wasted no time driving a liner to the wall for a stand-up RBI triple to tie the game. Jean Machi followed suit by driving in Watkins, the ultimate winning run, on a fielder's choice to the first baseman.

Machi (2-1) gave the I-Cubs two innings, allowing two earned runs off four hits and one walk, while striking out one to earn the win. Kawasaki finished 2-for-4 with a run, RBI and walk as Murton went 2-for-2 with two RBI before leaving with an apparent injury in the fifth.

The I-Cubs have a day off tomorrow before they begin a series with Round Rock beginning at 7:08 p.m., Thursday at Principal Park. For more information or tickets, visit www.iowacubs.com.

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Pacific Coast League Stories from June 7, 2016


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