Express Run over MoonDogs

(6/10/05) The MoonDogs traveled to Eau Claire on Friday night, for the first time ever, to take on one of the newest members to the Northwoods league, the Express. What the MoonDogs hoped would be a game to end their two game skid, turned into an 11-1 stomping as the Express took advantage of the MoonDogs sloppy play.

The Express came out to Carson Park ready to play. They quickly got on the scoreboard with a 2 run home run by Brian Joynt to take the 2-0 lead. Joynt finished up the game going 2-3 with 4 RBI and 2 runs scored. The MoonDogs battled back in the third, when Travis Howell singled and stole second to get himself into scoring position. L.J. Mims then doubled down the right field line scoring Howell and cutting the lead to one.

The Express answered back with 9 runs over the next six innings due to sloppy MoonDogs play, including a five run 7th that saw 10 Eau Claire batters step up to the plate. Two innings later, the Express walked off the field in a 11-1 victory over the ‘Dogs.

MoonDogs starting pitcher Joey Haug recorded his second loss, pitching in five innings and giving up five runs but only two of which were earned.

Designated hitter Josh Stirneman and debuting center fielder Bobby Verbick, led the MoonDogs in hitting. Stirneman went 2-3 with walk and the San Jacinto native, Bobby Verbick, reached base three times by going 1-2 with two walks.

The MoonDogs will play the final game of their two-game series with Eau Claire on Saturday, June 11 at 7:05. They will return home on Sunday and play host to the first place Brainerd Blue Thunder with a 6:05 game time. For tickets contact the MoonDogs office at 507-625-7047.