LA CROSSE, WI – An action-packed day of baseball got underway earlier than usual today at The Lumberyard. The day would begin with a home game for the Loggers at 12:05 PM and then traveling to Rochester for game two of the doubleheader against the Honkers at 7:05 PM. After playing through some heavy rain that evenutally forced a rain delay, the Loggers would come out on top 11-9 in a battle of the bats. The Loggers move to 5-10 on the season.
RHP Garrett Christman (Butler) started on the mound. Christman has been seen in a variety of positions within the infield so far this season, but today he would be put to the test on the mound. In 5.0 innings pitched, Christman allowed six runs on seven hits and struck out four. This performance by Christman would score him the win. RHP Mason McMahon (UW-La Crosse) pitched 2.1 innings in relief and RHP Charlie Fletcher (William & Mary) would come in for the save with 1.2 innings pitched allowing no runs on one hit and striking out three. On the opposing side, the Rochester bullpen took a beating with RHP Ryan Dorney getting handed the loss.
However, it was the bats on both ends that created all of the excitement in today's game. Totaling 11 runs on 10 hits, the Loggers would collect seven of those runs and six of those hits in the bottom of the first inning alone. If not for that monster of an inning, the Loggers may have been on the other side of the scoreboard having only scored in the first half of the game. Nevertheless, the Loggers came out on top and have the bats of a few to thank. Leading the way today at the plate were Yahir Gurrola (North Florida) going 2-for-3 with two RBI, Korey Lee (California) going 2-for-4 with a RBI, and David Villar (South Florida) going 2-for-4 including a grand slam off the State Bank Financial Video Board in the bottom of the first inning.
As mentioned earlier, the La Crosse Loggers will travel to Rochester tonight to take on the Honkers for game two at 7:05 PM. Returning to The Lumberyard tomorrow, the first pitch is set for 7:05 PM against the St. Cloud Rox. It is "Tribute To Hot Dogs Night". Thursdays also mean "Happy Hour" with HOWIE'S ON LACROSSE! Gates will open at 6:00 PM. See you at The Lumberyard!
