DES MOINES, Iowa – The Memphis Redbirds (13-4) used big first and eighth innings to top the Iowa Cubs (4-10) 8-4, Saturday night at Principal Park in Des Moines, Iowa. The ‘Birds scored four in the first and two in the eighth to snag the series opening win.
Memphis rebounded after being shutout last night, scoring four runs in the first inning. The first four batters of the game reached against Iowa starter Duane Underwood Jr. Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch to leadoff the game, and scored a batter later on a double from Max Schrock. Luke Voit walked and Adolis Garcia singled before Yairo Muñoz drove in Schrock on a ground out. Carson Kelly then drove in Voit and Garcia to give the ‘Birds the early lead.
Memphis starter John Gant blanked the Cubs for four innings before allowing three runs with two outs in the fifth inning. His final line was five innings pitched, and he allowed eight hits, three earned runs, and three walks, while striking out five en route to the win.
The ‘Birds snagged another run in the second and reopened the one-run lead with two runs in the eighth and one in the ninth to seal the win.
Kevin Herget, Edward Mujica, and Mike Mayers combined to throw four innings of one-run ball to seal the win for Memphis. Herget and Mujica both threw an inning, with Mayers pitching the final two. They allowed a combined six hits, one run, and two walks, while striking out four.
Schrock (2-for-5, RBI), Voit (2-for-4, 2 RBI), Garcia (2-for-5), and Patrick Wisdom (2-for-5, RBI) led the offensive charge for the ‘Birds. Memphis hit 6-for-15 with runners in scoring position, and left nine men on base, compared to 14 left on base for Iowa.
Memphis and Iowa will battle in game two of the series tomorrow at 1:08 p.m. The ‘Birds will return to AutoZone Park after this series for nine games from April 25-May 3. For more information on single-game tickets and ticket mini-memberships, visit www.memphisredbirds.com/
