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Published On: July 6th, 2015

The Express can’t capitalize with runners on, drop fifth straight game

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The struggle continues for the Eau Claire Express as they yet to earn a win in the second half of Northwoods League play, dropping tonight’s game at Carson Park to the St. Cloud Rox 7-1.

Collecting 8 hits but leaving 11 on base the Express failed to score until the eighth inning. The Rox jumped on the board early and often, scoring runs in the second, fifth, sixth and seventh innings before breaking open the game in the ninth with three runs. With just one win in their last 11 games, Express Field Manager Dale Varsho doesn’t like what he is seeing on the field as of late.

“We’re struggling big time of the overall aspect of all three phases of the game,” said Varsho. “We need to figure it out and I don’t know when that’s going to happen.”

Bryce Hensley got the start for Eau Claire and pitched five innings allowing two runs, both earned, on six hits and two walks.

Daulton Varsho had a solid day at the plate going 2-3 with two walks and a run scored. It was the only run of the game and came off a Brady Burzynski pinch hit RBI single. Despite his good day at the plate, Varsho knows it takes a team effort to win games.

“It’s a little frustrating, were just not hitting the greatest with runners in scoring position,” said Varsho. “Wish we could do a better job, just put the ball in play at least.”

Varsho knows his team is capable of earning victories but senses the dugout might need an attitude change.

“Right now I think everyone’s coming to the ball park expecting to lose,” said Varsho. “When we get down one run we just roll over, I just wish everyone would keep the energy up. We just got to keep playing hard.”

However with plenty of baseball still to play this summer, Varsho said the hope for a turn-around is still there.

“We can turn it around here tomorrow and go on a win streak,” said Varsho. “It’s possible for us, we’ve got a good pitching staff and good enough hitters. We’re only five games into the second half of the season.”

The Express continue the home stand with game two against the St. Cloud Rox tomorrow at Carson Park. First pitch is set for 6:35 p.m. and is sponsored by Eau Claire YMCA and former NFL player Ickey Woods will make an appearance.