The Larks dropped the first game of a four-game series against the Eau Claire Express, 11-4 on Firework Friday, powered by Fetzer Electric. Tonight’s First Responders Night was presented by 10 Code.

The Express took the lead in the top of the first after two RBI doubles from Benjamin Rosengard (Rice University) and Sam Kuchinski (University of Montevallo). Jack Sapien (Stanford University) also delivered an RBI single in the first to give Eau Claire a 3-0 lead.  

On the mound, the Larks saw an impressive outing from starter Josh Combs (Point Loma Nazarene) after going five full innings, allowing four earned runs, and striking out six batters. Combs also delivered the Metro Area Ambulance Fastest Pitch of the Game at 88 mph.  

At the plate, Seth Surrett in his first game inside Bismarck Municipal Ballpark went three for four with a single, double, and a two-RBI triple. Surrett also delivered the Fetzer Electric Play of the Game after making a diving catch in the top of the fifth in left field. Surrett made the catch, but while he was mid-dive, the glove slipped off his hand. He was able to maintain his concentration and pin the ball, and glove, to his body before it dropped to the ground.

Spencer Sarringar (Northern State) also ended the day with an RBI. 

For the Express, Cadyn Schwabe (North Dakota State) went two for three with two singles and scored three times as well. Jack Sapien (Stanford University) finished the day two for four with a scored run and three RBIs. Catcher Charlie Saum (Stanford University) hit his first home run of the season in the top of the ninth that drove in two runs. 

The Express saw three solid outings, especially from starter Derek True (Cal Poly) who went five full innings allowing no earned runs and struck five Larks. First out of the bullpen was Cory Ronan (University of Hawaii) who pitched a perfect two innings allowing no earned runs with one strikeout. 

The Larks are back in action tomorrow night, for Princess Night, with first pitch set for 6:35 pm. Catch the full game on the Northwoods League TV Network.