SPRINGDALE -- Northwest Arkansas snapped a three-game losing streak Saturday, twice rallying from deficits to post a 7-5 victory over Tulsa in front of an announced crowd of 4,806 at Arvest Ballpark.
The bottom of the Naturals' batting order provided the biggest pop in the win. Catcher Zane Evans, who replaced an injured Cam Gallagher in the No. 6 hole, along with Carlos Garcia, Humberto Arteaga and Terrance Gore in the 7-8-9 positions, combined to go 7 for 14 with four RBIs and three runs.
"Situationally, they were really good too," Naturals manager Vance Wilson said. "As far as bunts, hit and runs, stolen bases, delayed steals -- a lot of things. And it was good to see those guys come through."
Northwest Arkansas (51-62, 22-21) trailed 3-0 after the top of the second as Naturals starting pitcher Josh Staumont struggled early. Once Staumont settled in, Northwest Arkansas chipped away.
The Naturals briefly took a 4-3 lead in the bottom of the third against Tulsa starter Chase De Jong, before the Drillers (57-55, 20-23) reclaimed the lead 5-4 on a two-run home run in the sixth off reliever Miguel Almonte. But the bottom of the order came through again, sparking single-run rallies in the sixth, seventh and eighth innings to cap the comeback.
Reid Redmon and Mark Peterson closed out the win, combining to pitch two scoreless innings.
"That's a good lineup over there and they get that two-run homer off Almonte," Wilson said. "But Redmon comes in and throws good pitches and Peterson also pitched well."
SHORT HOPS
• The two teams combined for six wild pitches Saturday, three by Staumont alone. Two of the wild pitches directly led to runs scored.
Naturals catcher Cam Gallagher left the game without taking an at-bat after taking a foul pitch off the glove in the top of the first. Zane Evans entered the game in Gallagher's place and finished 2 for 4 with and RBI and a run scored.
On Deck: The Naturals wrap up the homestand with the last of four games against Tulsa. First pitch for Sunday's game is set for 2:05 p.m. Northwest Arkansas will send LHP Eric Skoglund (6-8, 3.64 ERA) to the mound.
Promotions: Kids Eat Free Family Sunday. All kids 12 and under receive voucher for a hot dog, chips and 12 oz. soda. ... Mercy Kids Run the Bases. Kids of all ages can run the bases at Arvest Ballpark at the conclusion of Sunday's game.
On The Air: KQSM-FM 92.1
On The Web: www.nwanaturals
Sports on 08/07/2016