(Gary, IN) The Gary SouthShore RailCats were back in the Steel Yard for a new series against the Sioux City Explorers. Peyton Long who was coming off back-to-back quality starts went up against Peniel Otano. 

Long and Otano were scoreless until the top of the 7th after Alberto Osuna dunked one in right center field. A walk would put two runners on base with no outs and a bunt by D’Shawn Knowles would be thrown down the line by Justin O’Conner to score the games first run. With one out and two runners in scoring position, Yorman Rodriguez flew out to deep left center to bring in two and make it 3-0. All runs were unearned to Long. 

The RailCats were held scoreless by Otano until he left the game after seven innings. In the bottom of the ninth, Kevin Watson doubled into right center and scored on a wild pitch from Rob Hughes. With two outs and two strikes Nick Podkul tripled, Elvis Peralta walked and Joe Suozzi would do the same to load up the bases. Tahnaj Thomas would get into a 2-2 count against Ozzie Martinez who flew out to center to give the Explorers the win. Final, 3-1. 

The RailCats and Explorers have a quick turnaround tomorrow with a 12:00 PM start for game two of the series. Nathan Mertens will get the ball for Sioux City while the RailCats will start the Carbliss Pitcher of the Week, Deyni Olivero. Tickets are available on Tixr.com/RailCats or call the park at 219-882-2255.