(6/27/06) The Mankato MoonDogs traveled to Wisconsin refreshed after a much needed day off. In the 4th inning of Tuesdays game, the Woodchucks had their first and best scoring opportunity of the game, but were denied when Shane Buschini and Chris Henault executed a perfect relay to catcher Ben Geelan cutting down Ryan Wilkes at the plate.

For the MoonDogs, their best scoring opportunity came when Tim Smith started a 6th inning rally with a 1 out single, he then reached second base with is 6th stolen base of the season. With two outs, Sean Halton singled him in for the MoonDogs lone run.

Johnnie Lowe who has the third lowest ERA in the Northwoods league, lowered it to a miniscule 0.54 after pitching 7 shutout innings. He retired the first 10 batters he faced, relying heavily on his defense with 7 outs being ground balls handled by Henault who was at short. Lowe is now 3-1 on the year and the MoonDogs pitching staff remains at the top of the league with a team ERA of 2.19. Owen Reid, the Woodchucks starting pitcher, gave up 1 earned run in 7 innings to go with his 5 strikeouts.

Jason Novak pitched the final two frames of the game for the ‘Dogs to earn his first save of the season. He is the fourth pitcher to record a save as the MoonDogs are still searching for their everyday closer.