MoonDogs Storm Blue Thunder
Playing in their final game of a two-game series against the Eau Claire Express, the MoonDogs looked to prevent the sweep and put away the brooms. Solid pitching and fielding on both sides limited each team to no extra base hits and no errors. In the end, however, it was the Express who outlasted the MoonDogs going on to win 2-1.
Cameron Young, the young lefty from New Mexico Junior College, made his Northwoods League debut on the mound for the MoonDogs. Young faced off with John Bjelland of the Express who is among the top 10 leaders in ERA (0.69).
The MoonDogs started off the contest patient at the plate. Lead-off hitter Jon Schemmel and second baseman Jon Rupno both walked to put runners on first and second for catcher Drew Davis. Davis hit into a fielders choice but advanced Schemmel to third. With heavy pressure, Bjelland buckled and threw a ball pass the catcher letting Schemmel score and put the ‘Dogs up 1-0.
It took five innings for the Express to return the favor when Mark Hallberg singled to left to score Jake Frombach and tie the game at 1-1. The inning, however, did not end there as Young walked Brian Joynt to load the bases. With two outs, Young threw a wild pitch that allowed the Express to score the winning run.
Pitching against the hottest hitting team in the Northwoods League, the MoonDogs allowed just 6 hits. Young went 5.2 innings allowing two runs and striking out four. Relievers Derek Tarapacki and Bobby Lewton shut down the Express giving up no runs in the last three innings.
First baseman Michael Jenkins and left fielder L.J. Mims recorded the only hits of the game for the ‘Dogs. Jenkins went 2-4 and Mims a respectable 1-2 with a walk.
After a 3 game road trip, the ‘Dogs finally return home on Sunday night at 6:05 to play host to the first place Brainerd Blue Thunder. MoonDogs ace pitcher Tyson Brummett will look to repeat his home opener performance and garner another victory for the ‘Dogs. The MoonDogs mascot, Muttnik, will also compete Sunday night in the annual Mascot Olympics. Mascots from all over will compete to win a mascot’s most coveted prize, the "Mascot Olympic” gold medal. For tickets call the MoonDogs office at 507-625-7047.
