IOWA - Raul Mondesi 's Grand Slam made it close, but Omaha couldn't overcome an early 6-run deficit in a 7-5 defeat to Iowa on Friday night at Principal Park.
IOWA - Raul Mondesi 's Grand Slam made it close, but Omaha couldn't overcome an early 6-run deficit in a 7-5 defeat to Iowa on Friday night at Principal Park.
The Cubs scored all the runs they would need by plating a half-dozen runs in the bottom of the 2nd against Onelki Garcia . Jeimer Candelario led off with a home run, and Chris Dominguez singled. Jacob Hannemann reached on an error, Stephen Bruno walked, and Ali Solis walked to force in a run.
With 2 out, Chesny Young also drew an RBI walk, and Jemile Weeks followed with a base-clearing 3-run double, giving Iowa a 6-0 lead.
Garcia (L, 1-1) was charged with 6 runs (1 earned) on 4 hits in 2 innings, with 2 strikeouts and 3 walks.
David Rollins worked the first 3 innings for Iowa in a spot-start; he allowed just 2 hits and no walks, while striking out 6. Justin Hancock (W, 1-0) pitched the 4th and 5th frames, allowing 1 run; he was credited with the victory.
Omaha scored that run in the 4th on a walk to Bubba Starling , a single by Ryan O'Hearn , and an RBI groundout by Cam Gallager.
But the Cubs bit back in the bottom of the 5th, as Chris Dominguez homered to make it 7-1.
The Chasers jumped back in the game in the top of the 7th; Frank Schwindel and Dean Anna singled, and Corey Toups walked to load the bases. After back-to-back fly balls, Raul Mondesi crunched a Grand Slam to center field against Fernando Rodriguez Jr., pulling Omaha to within 7-5.
Christian Binford tossed 4.2 strong relief innings to keep the Chasers within range; he allowed just 1 run on 4 hits, with 3 strikeouts and no walks. Miguel Almonte tossed 1.1 scoreless innings as well, as the Omaha bullpen turned in a stellar night.
But the Chasers couldn't complete the comeback, and were retired in order in the 8th and 9th. Matt Carasiti (S, 15) earned the save in the final frame.
The Storm Chasers will continue the series in Des Moines tomorrow. LHP Eric Skoglund (2-4, 4.64) will pitch for Omaha, while Iowa will counter with RHP Aaron Brooks (5-6, 6.02). First pitch is scheduled for 7:08.
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