Idaho Falls Drops Series Opener

The Idaho Falls Chukars never led in an 8-2 to the Orem Owlz on Independence Day. With the loss the Chukars are now 6-12 this season, while Orem continues to lead the Pioneer League's South Division with a 13-5 record.

After suffering two hard luck losses earlier in the season, Chukars' starter Ivor Hodgson struggled on the mound Friday and picked up his third loss. Hodgson gave up six runs in four innings of work.

Offensively the Chukars were again led by outfielder Nick Francis. Francis went 3-4 with a solo homerun. Four other Chukars had a hit in the game, but no I.F. hitter reached on a walk.

On the other side the Owlz had 12 hits, led by the 4-5 performance of Donato Giovanatto. Angel Castillo was the other Owlz player to get multiple hits as he went 3-5.

The win went to Jayson Miller who improved to 2-0 after giving up no earned runs in six innings. He was followed by two shutout innings from Francis Cabrera.

The two teams meet again Saturday night at 7:15.