T-Bones soak AirHogs, 9-4, in home opener

A little rain didn’t stop the T-Bones from storming back to win 9-4 in the season opener Thursday at CommunityAmerica Ballpark, Kansas City, Kan.

A light, cool rain fell from the 2nd inning through the 8th inning at the game, which had an attendance of 5,297. But all the fun activities of American Association baseball went on as usual.

After taking a 2-0 lead in the 1st inning, the T-Bones maintained the lead into the 6th inning, when the Texas Airhogs scored four runs on Kansas City starter Casey Barnes. Texas led 4-2, but only until the bottom of the 6th.

After coming back to tie 4-4 in the 6th inning on a home run from designated hitter Anthony Gallas, the T-Bones then went ahead by two runs on a single from right fielder Christian Torres. The T-Bones added extra runs in the 8th inning.

Barnes got the win for the T-Bones.

The game had its usual components of funny contests between the innings, races around the bases, T-shirt giveaways and prizes that kept the tone of the game light. But this day, the game opened in a much more serious atmosphere.

The season opener was notable for a special tribute to Detective Brad Lancaster, who was killed last week in the line of duty near the Hollywood Casino grounds. A police honor guard presented the colors, and Detective Lancaster’s children threw out the first ball.

The T-Bones are giving two tickets free to police officers in Greater Kansas City from May 19 to 25. The tickets are based on availability, and officers will be asked for identification.

The next game will be at 7:05 p.m. Friday at CommunityAmerica Ballpark when the T-Bones and AirHogs meet again in the four-game home stand. The Falcon skydiving team is scheduled to make an appearance, and it will be $1 hot dog night. According to the forecast, there should be dry weather at game time. For tickets, call the box office at 913-328-5618.