The Kansas City T-Bones were unable to capitalize with runners in scoring position — stranding a total of 11 runners in the game — and fell to the Texas AirHogs, 6-3, Sunday afternoon at CommunityAmerica Ballpark in Kansas City, Kan.
Missed opportunities cost the T-Bones in the finale of the four-game series. Out of the 11 runners, Kansas City left six in scoring position.
The biggest opportunity for the T-Bones came in the bottom of the sixth inning, when, trailing 4-1, Brandon Tierney stepped in with two runners on. He doubled home Tyler Massey, but then Steve Swingle was thrown out at home trying to score from first. After third baseman Cody Lenahan robbed Christian Torres with a diving catch, Brett Wiley hit an RBI double that scored Massey and helped the T-Bones claw back, 4-3.
Kansas City threatened to score in each of the next two innings, with a runner at second base in the seventh and eighth, but the T-Bones couldn’t capitalize.
The AirHogs added insurance runs in the top of the ninth. Devon Rodriguez and Michael Miller led off with back to back singles. After T-Bones relief pitcher Aaron Baker loaded the bases with a one-out walk to Brian Bistagne, Texas scored on a fielder’s choice by Kenny Peoples-Wall. The next batter, Michael Hur, smacked a single that scored the final run.
In spite of hitting four T-Bones batters, Texas starting pitcher Palmer Betts (1-0) got the win after giving up three runs (two earned) and six hits in 5 1/3 innings.
Kansas City starter Jeremy Strawn (0-1) gave up five hits and three runs in 5 innings.
The T-Bones (2-2) now get set to play host to the Lincoln Saltdogs for a three-game series beginning Monday night at 7:05. Tickets are available by calling the Providence Medical Center Box Office at CommunityAmerica Ballpark at 913-328-5618.
– Story by Matt Fulks, T-Bones