Chiefs Woodford mows down Cougars in 4-0 loss

Peoria - Peoria's (22-22) Jake Woodford (3-3) tossed an efficient game and the Cougars (22-22) only managed 4 hits, falling short in Game 1 of a three-game series at Dozer Park, 4-0.

Joel Payamps (1-3) was masterful in relief of Carlos Hernandez (3-3), but the two pitchers could not repeat a shutout they combined for against the Chiefs on May 19.

After getting the first two men aboard in the ninth and forcing Woodford out of the game, the Cougars rally fell short.

Peoria got its offense going with an RBI base hit by Brian O'Keefe in the second inning. A two-out, bases loaded walk to Thomas Spitz in the third gave the Chiefs a 2-0 lead.

The Chiefs added another run in the fourth inning. After Craig Aikin walked, Magneuris Sierra drove him in on a hit-and-run play chasing Hernandez from the game. Hernandez finishing with three and one-third innings pitched on four hits, three runs all earned, four walks next to three strikeouts. His ERA rose to 3.66.

The Cougars ran into the buzz saw that was Chiefs' starter, righty Woodford. Woodford tossed eight innings, allowed no runs, on 4 hits with 5 strikeouts and no walks.

Carlos Hernandez lost his first game since May 1 for the Cougars, as Jake Woodford tallied his second victory against the Cougars on the season. Jorge Rodriguez notched his first save.

Game 2 takes place on Wednesday at 7 p.m. from Dozer Park in Peoria. The Cougars send out RHP Justin Donatella (5-1, 1.44 ERA) to the mound to battle Chiefs' starter, RHP Junior Fernandez (3-3, 3.62 ERA).