Kirkman’s Strong Performance Earns Win for OKC

Originally Published: Jun 8, 2010 3:16 PM CDT

Stephany Speck
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

OMAHA, Nebraska -- The RedHawks’ Michael Kirkman’s dominant seven innings on the mound led to a 6-0 shutout of the Omaha Royals.

The lefty (3.17 ERA) gave up only three hits and one walk, while striking out nine Royals during his time on the mound. Kirkman finished the day when Michael Ballard relieved him to close the game.

Ballard threw the final two innings, allowing only one hit to keep hold Omaha scoreless.

The RedHawks scored three runs in two innings, but despite the other seven scoreless innings, the six runs earned Oklahoma City its 31st win of the season. The first three runs came in the first inning when Ryan Garko hit his fourth homer of the season.

The three-run home run was followed up in the third inning with a double by Hernan Iribarren, driving in the last three runs for the RedHawks.

Oklahoma City will host Alabama Thursday at 7:05 p.m.