A another big first inning proved to be successful as the T-Bones won the first game of a four-game series against the Sioux City Explorers, 6-4, at CommunityAmerica Ballpark on a hot Thursday evening.

Designated hitter Kevin Keyes launched two run home run scoring center fielder, Ross Kivett, to put the T-Bones up 2-0 early in the first inning. Keyes’ last home run was June 22 and is now tied at the top of the league with 13 home runs. Left fielder Tyler Horan followed with a double and first baseman Kyle Petty was right behind him with a single.

Starting pitcher for the Explorers, Alex White, hit Chantz Mack, advancing both Horan and Petty. With bases loaded, third baseman Jordan Edgerton popped a sacrifice fly to center field, scoring Horan, adding another run for the T-Bones, 3-0.

Shortstop Jerome Pena hit a double to center field scoring Petty, putting a cap on the first inning, 4-0. Sioux City would add a run from Joe Bennie, who hit a solo home run, in the top of the second, 4-1.

Luis Paula relieved Carroll in the sixth inning, but after a series of walks, the Explorers were able to get another run on the board and close in on the lead, 4-2. Zach Morgenstern relieved Paula after one inning but gave up the tying runs off of a home-run from Nate Samson, scoring Tony Campana.

Brad Orosey took the mound for Sioux City in the sixth inning, but the T-Bones brought the heat in the seventh inning. Orosey walked Marcus Lemon and Kevin Keyes, then allowed a hit from Petty that scored Lemon. A wild pitch scored Keyes giving the T-Bones the two run lead they needed to secure the series opening win.

Right handed pitcher, Zach Morgenstern (1-0, 5.40), picked up the win for the T-Bones, while right handed pitcher Brad Orosey (2-3, 4.13) was charged with the loss for Sioux City. Cody Winiarski (1-0, 2.21) recorded his 11th save of the season tying him for second place in the league in saves.

The T-Bones (27-18) will play the second game of the series against Sioux City tomorrow night at 7:05 p.m. at home. Tomorrow night’s theme is Pirates and Princesses night with a special appearance by Elsa from Frozen and $1.25 hot dogs all night long.

For additional information or interview requests, members of the media may contact the T-Bones Media Relations Department at 913-328-5639. Tickets are available online, by calling (913) 328-5618 or by visiting in person the Providence Medical Center Box Office.

Box Score

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