Mankato 5, Alexandria 3
Mankato wins series 2-1
The Mankato MoonDogs are headed to the Summer Collegiate World Series after winning a decisive Game Three at Alexandria on Wednesday night. The MoonDogs scored four runs in the 5th inning to overcome a 2-0 deficit. Beetles centerfielder Kevin Grove (St. John’s) opened the scoring with an opposite field two-run home run to right field in the 4th inning. Mankato came right back in the 5th, filling the bases and scoring a run on a walk. With two out, Zak Wasserman (Louisville) came up with a critical RBI infield single to shortstop to tie the game. Beetles shortstop Nick Gumm (Maple Woods CC) fielded the ground ball, hesitated thinking he had a chance at a force play at second base when he didn’t and then threw to first base too late to get Wasserman. The next batter was Chris Ross (Montevallo) and he drove in two runs with a single to put the MoonDogs up 4-2. The Beetles got a run back in the bottom of the 5th on an RBI fielder’s choice. Mankato made it 5-3 in the 8th on and RBI bunt single by Cody Ferrell (Seminole State).
Mike Rivera (Fresno Pacific) earned the win in relief with 1 1/3 scoreless innings. Patrick Goelz (Bethune-Cookman) pitched the final four innings, allowing just one hit, and got credit for the save.
Mankato opens up the Summer Collegiate World Series with a home game Thursday at 7:05 PM central time at Franklin Rogers Park. Games two and three (if necessary) will be in Battle Creek at C.O. Brown Stadium on Friday and Saturday nights at 7:05 PM eastern time.