08/08/2012 8:09 AM -
MARION, Ill. – Guilford High School alumnus Ziggie VanderWall and the Rockford bullpen combined on a seven-hit shutout as the RiverHawks beat Southern Illinois, 1-0, on Tuesday at Rent One Park.
VanderWall escaped bases-loaded threats in the fourth and sixth innings for the win. VanderWall (6-4) gave up seven hits and five walks and struck out three over six innings.
The Miners stranded nine, five in scoring position. With one out in the sixth, VanderWall gave up two hits and a walk to load the bases, but got Will Block on a comeback line drive and Cannon Lester on a deep line to left field.
VanderWall and three relievers combined to retire the final 11 Miners in order. Garrett Granitz pitched the ninth inning and earned his ninth save.
Southern Illinois starter Daniel Calhoun scattered three hits over eight innings, but took the loss. Calhoun (5-3) struck out seven and didn’t walk a batter.
The game’s only run was unearned. Ted Obregon led off the game with a single and advanced to second base on Brandon Anderson’s sacrifice. Obregon stole third base, and when catcher Chris Anderson fired wildly into left field, scored.
The series continues at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday.
The RiverHawks’ next home game is at 7:05 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 14, when they host Florence. Kids eat free on Tuesday nights with paid admission.
The RiverHawks are members of the Frontier League, an independent professional baseball league in its 20th season. Games are broadcast on NTA-FM (100.5) Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visit www.rockfordriverhawks.com.
