Offense erupts again as Chukars push win streak to 7

IDAHO FALLS — The Idaho Falls Chukars remained perfect in June with another high-scoring victory, Tuesday night.

The Chukars (15-3) returned to Melaleuca Field following a perfect trip to Grand Junction and rode another massive offensive night to their seventh straight victory, 24-19, over the Boise Hawks (10-9). With the win, they moved to 7-0 this month.

Most of the night’s scoring came early, with the visiting Hawks putting up seven runs in the top of the first before adding four more in the second. Idaho Falls had no problem answering though, pushing four runs across in the bottom of the first.

The Chukars added eight-spots in the second and fourth innings, wrapped around a two-run third. Despite a five-run top of the fifth from Boise, the Chukars carried a 22-17 lead into the sixth.

Tyler Wyatt was once again the offensive igniter, going 4-for-6 with two walks, three runs and four RBIs. Simon Baumgardt recorded four hits as well, with three runs and three RBIs, but did not go deep. Spencer Rich did homer, taking over the team lead with six long balls, while driving in a team-high five runs.

Boise’s Jake Hjelle finished with a game-high eight RBIs, homering twice.

The Idaho Falls pitching staff was once again heavily taxed.

Starter Reed Garland recorded just one out, surrendering one hit, four walks and five earned runs. The Chukar bullpen was responsible for the other 26 outs. Robert Hughes (W, 1-0) earned the win, tossing 1-1/3 innings scoreless innings.

The Chukars and Hawks will battle again Wednesday night, with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Current PBL standings
T1. Idaho Falls Chukars (15-3)
T1. Rocky Mountain Vibes (15-3)
T3. Missoula PaddleHeads (13-6)
T3. Oakland Ballers (13-6)
5. Yuba-Sutter High Wheelers (12-7)
6. Boise Hawks (10-9)
7. Ogden Raptors (9-10)
T8. Billings Mustangs (8-11)
T8. Glacier Range Riders (8-11)
10. Grand Junction Jackalopes (4-14)
11. Northern Colorado Owlz (3-15)
12. Great Falls Voyagers (2-17)