Cleburne Falters as RailCats Rally for Win

CLEBURNE, Texas (July 28, 2021) – The Cleburne Railroaders surged to an early 6-1 lead, but a six-run fifth inning from the Gary SouthShore RailCats proved to be the difference as Cleburne dropped game two 9-7 on Wednesday night at The Depot.

The Railroaders (35-27) knocked around Gary SouthShore starter Cole Cook to the tune of six runs over the first two innings. Ramon Hernandez blasted a solo homer, then Hunter Clanin and Osvaldo Martinez added RBI singles before Hernandez singled home another run in the second. A wild pitch capped the scoring in the inning, giving Cleburne a 6-1 lead.

The two teams traded runs in the fourth before Gary SouthShore (26-38) exploded in the fifth. Three RBI singles, a bases-loaded walk, a bases-loaded hit by pitch, and a fielder’s choice scored five runs against Cleburne starter Garrett Alexander (6-6), as the RailCats claimed an 8-7 lead. They would add an insurance run in the seventh on a wild pitch for the final margin.

After the early barrage, Cleburne’s offense went quiet against the Gary SouthShore bullpen. Adam Heidenfelder (5-1) picked up the win with 4.2 strong innings of relief, allowing just one run. Nick Garcia nailed down his third save with 2.1 scoreless frames, as the Railroaders could not manage a runner to third base over the final five innings. 

The Railroaders and RailCats conclude the series on Thursday night at 7:06 PM. Kody Bullard (1-0, 1.68) starts for the Railroaders, while Gary SouthShore counters with southpaw Trevor Lubking (3-6, 4.89).

For information on partnerships, season tickets, group outings, and party packages, call the Railroaders main office at (817) 945-8705, or visit the Railroaders official website at www.railroaderbaseball.com.