The Springfield Cardinals held control of their own destiny. They needed to win three of four against first place Tulsa to grab the Texas League North first half championship. After losing the first game Thursday, Springfield won the next two setting up a winner-take-all game four Sunday.

It was pitching that won the previous two games for the Cardinals. It was pitching that clinched the title for Tulsa as starter Marc Kaiser pitched a five-hitter beating Springfield 8-1.

Tulsa’s Jordan Czarniecki hit a three-run homer that capped off a five-run third inning that busted the game open. Ian Stewart also homered in the game for the Drillers.

Mike Parisi got the loss, giving up seven runs – two earned – on five hits and only lasted 2 2/3 innings.

Terry Evans continues to see the ball well. His solo home run in the second accounted for the only Springfield run.