Loggers Edge ‘Dogs in Picthing Duel

(6/9/05) If earned runs were the only runs that counted in the game of baseball, the MoonDogs would be riding high on a 1-0 shut out of the Lacrosse Loggers. Instead, two errors in the second inning cost the ‘Dogs 2 runs and the game, as the Loggers went on to win 2-1.

The classic pitching duel saw MoonDogs starting pitcher, Mike Miller, battle hard against pitcher Steve Salas of the Loggers. Miller pitched 6 strong innings, striking out 8 batters and giving up just 3 hits. The damage was done though when the Loggers scored two unearned runs on Miller in second inning due to two errors by the MoonDogs defense.

The MoonDogs made a run at the Loggers in the seventh inning. Josh Stirneman walked and B.J. Wheeler reached on an error after the pitcher slipped while attempting to throw out Wheeler on a sacrifice bunt. With runners on first and second with one out, Ryan Addison doubled down the left field line to score Stirneman and bring the ‘Dogs to within one. The rally ended though when Salas struck out the next two MoonDogs leaving base runners stranded on second and third.

Bobby Lewton, from the University of Arizona, made his Northwoods League debut out of the bullpen in the 7th, giving up no runs and striking out one. Relief pitcher Kevin Regan also made an appearance continuing his dominance, by whiffing 2 batters and giving up no runs to lower his ERA to 0.90.

Addison’s 1-3 night, with a double and RBI, led the MoonDogs in hitting. Stirneman was patient at the plate, walking twice and scoring the ‘Dogs only run.

The MoonDogs will make the trip to Eau Claire for a 2 game series set to kick off on Friday night at 7:05 p.m. The Dogs will try to slow down the 5-3 Express before returning home on Sunday to tackle the Brainerd Blue Thunder at 6:05 p.m. Sunday will also mark the annual "Mascot Olympics” where characters from all over come to "The Frank” to go for the gold! For tickets call the MoonDogs office at 507-625-7047.