Drillers Bats Come Up Big Against Cardinals

The Tulsa Drillers got a few big runs late, overcoming a late deficit to top the Springfield Cardinals 6-5 in their second consecutive win of the series.

Trailing 3-0 in the top of the sixth, a Kent Matthes walk loaded the bases and Tim Torres drew another walk to score Nolan Arenado for their first run of the game. The Cardinals pulled Kevin Thomas for Scott Gorgen, but it wouldn't save them as Angelys Nina homered over the right field for a grand slam to take a 5-3 lead.

However, Springfield responded with a two-run ground out by Jose Garcia to tie the game 5-5 to tie the game heading into the final three innings of the game.

Nina hit a leadoff ground-rule double to center field and two at-bats later, Kiel Roling followed with a fly out to center, with a throwing error allowing Nina to come home and take a 6-5 advantage. The Drillers pitchers closed out the game by retiring the next six batters.

Royce Ring (1-0) received his first win of the season for his work, giving up just one hit in his 1.2 innings of service, while Sam Freeman (0-1) received a loss for his two innings of work, allowing one run on two hits.

Tulsa will be back in action at 7:05 p.m. Monday against the Arkansas Travelers, the first of an eight-game home stand.