Richard Castillo started for Springfield and was great for seven innings for the Cardinals as he did not allow a run on just four hits while tying a season high with seven strikeouts.

Michael Mariot, the Naturals starter was just as solid allowing just four hits in 7.2 innings of shutout ball.

The game remained scoreless into the 9th inning, but Paulo Orlando launched a solo homer over the bullpen in left field to give the Naturals a 1-0 lead off All-Star closer Keith Butler.

With two outs in the bottom of the 9th, Jamie Romak, a former Natural now playing for Springfield, blasted a solo shot to left to tie the game 1-1.

More zeroes were exchanged through the next four and a half innings before Xavier Scruggs led off the bottom of the 13th with a double. A deep fly out by Audry Perez moved Scruggs to third with one out. Back to back intentional walks led to Curtis coming up and taking the free pass to score the game winning run.

Deryk Hooker went three scoreless out of the Springfield bullpen and Kevin Thomas tossed a scoreless 13th inning to earn the win.

The Cardinals will continue their series with NW Arkansas Naturals Saturday at 6:08pm. Springfield will send Carlos Martinez to the mound against Mike Montgomery.

Saturday the Hiland Dairy and the Cardinals will be giving away 2,500 Kids Backpacks to get your youngster ready for the school year. Also, the Cardinals will be wearing Camo Jerseys that will be available for auction throughout the game. All proceeds from the auction will benefit the Boy Scouts of America. Great tickets are still available, so visit the Hammons Field Ticket Office, go online at springfieldcardinals.com or call (417) 863-2143.

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