Mankato had a hard time solving Waterloo starter Gib Hobson for 7 innings, but against the Bucks bullpen, the MoonDogs bats awakened, scoring once in the eighth to tie the score, and 2 runs in the ninth to complete the comeback and win their third straight, 3-1.
In the bottom of the fourth inning, Waterloo got on the board first by picking up one run. With Hobson throwing superbly on the mound, the Bucks looked to have the game locked up.
However, Steve Nielsen (4-3) came in relief of Hobson and had a tough time getting batters out. In the eighth, Nielsen surrendered one run, then in the ninth with the game tied at 1-1, the ‘Dogs plated 2 more runs against Nielsen to take their first lead of the game, 3-1.
With a 2-run lead and a save situation, Neil Wagner entered the game. Once again he over powered the opposition, allowing just one hit while striking out 2 to pick up his fourth save of the season.
Justin Garcia (5-5), who got the start on the hill, threw an incredible game to earn his fifth win. In 8 innings of work, Garcia fooled the Bucks hitters all night with just 1 blemish, and that was a run in the fourth inning. On the night, Garcia threw 8 innings, allowing the 1 run on only 3 hits, walking 3 and striking out a staggering 12 Bucks batters.
Hobson went 7 innings, allowing no runs on 5 hits, walking 2 and striking out 5.
Ryan Chiarelli and Grant Rembert each picked up an RBI, while Jordan Prado went 2-3 with a double and Kevin Dixon went 2-3 as well.