On a night that was better set for a football game, with the temperature dropping into the 40’s, the St. Cloud River Bats ousted the MoonDogs by a single run, 3-2. The opening night crowd of nearly 1,100 braved the weather Monday to see Twins announcer Herb Carneal and Wally the Beerman and watched as the hometown team gave themselves chances but couldn’t get the key hit they needed. Jay Nessler got the first RBI of the season as Jeremiah Piepkorn scored from second after his double off of the left field wall. The Dogs scored again in the 6th on another double from Mike Dudley as Piepkorn came around. The River Bats offense scored all 3 runs on two home runs on a pair of pitches that Clay Tichota just "left up.” Following the game, a spectacular fireworks show was enjoyed by a number of fans who cheered as the night sky was lit up in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Tonight’s game will be a rematch between St. Cloud and Mankato, with Scheels All Sports supplying "Cheer Stix” for all fans in attendance.
Fans will also be receiving a magnet schedule as well for "Opening Night Part II.”

The next home game for the MoonDogs will be Tuesday, June 10 against the Alexandria Beetles on Mankato Clinic and Sertoma Night.