KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Christian Ibarra homered for the second straight game but the Kansas City T-Bones (3-2) edged the Saltdogs (3-2) 2-1 in a well-pitched series opener in front of 2,112 fans at CommunityAmerica Ballpark Monday night.
The T-Bones opened the game’s scoring with an unearned run in the second inning, which turned out to be the difference.
Ibarra’s shot to left led off the sixth inning to pull the ‘Dogs to within one.
The Saltdogs put the possible tying run into scoring position with two out in the ninth but Mark Haynes struck out Jon Smith looking with a sharp breaking ball to end the game.
Josh Tols (1-0) pitched three innings of relief, allowing one run to earn the win. Lindsey Caughel (0-1) worked 6 1/3 frames, yielding just one earned to suffer the tough-luck loss.
Haynes pitched the final two innings to book the save.
Lincoln reliever Brad Orosey inherited the bases loaded with one out in the seventh but got out of the jam unscathed to keep the ‘Dogs in the game.
The series continues Tuesday night at 7:05 p.m. RHP Shairon Martis (1-0, 1.80) is expected to face RHP Casey Barnes (1-0, 6.00). Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR FM 103.3/1240 AM.
The ‘Dogs play their home opener May 27 at Haymarket Park against Winnipeg with a fireworks show after the game. Get your tickets now at www.saltdogs.com.