(Duluth, MN) – The Mankato MoonDogs (2-4) lost both games of an early season doubleheader Tuesday night to the Duluth Huskies (4-2). With both games being played in just seven innings, it looked like the MoonDogs could have used the full nine. Both games saw tight contests that could have swung the other way for the MoonDogs with just an extra inning or two. The MoonDogs fell 2-1 in the first contest and 5-4 in the night cap.

Starter Luke Vine (0-1) took the loss despite only giving up two runs on the evening. Catcher Ben Geelan continued to play well. He doubled in the game’s only run for the MoonDogs.

For the Huskies, starter Zach Von Tersch (1-0) put together a solid start, going five innings allowing one earned run and striking out two. Joey Bonadonna and designated hitter Jim Klocke combined to go 4-for-6 for the Huskies with Bonadonna scoring once and Klocke driving in one RBI. Reliever Mike Nesseth got the save after going an inning and a third without allowing a run.

In the second game, the MoonDogs found themselves down 5-1 entering the top of the 6th inning, but were able to string together enough hits to cut the lead down to 5-4. However, the MoonDogs were unable to tack on any more in the 7th inning.

Starter Josh Castanza (0-1) went 2 1/3 innings, only giving up two earned runs. Relievers Mark Haderlein and Tim Ryan combined to finish off the remainder of the game giving up just two hits and no runs. In the batter’s box, first baseman Evan Porter and third baseman Jose Ayala each went 2-for-3 with an RBI, while Porter added a run scored. Outfielder CJ Belanger was also 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored.

For Duluth, starter Josh Syberg (1-0) went 5 2/3 innings, giving up three earned runs on four hits. Reliever Adian Kummet finished off the game for the Huskies, recording his second save of the season. Designated hitter Jason Haniger went 2-for-2 with a run scored and an RBI. Joey Bonadonna was 1-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI, and Tony Plagman added a hit and an RBI for the Huskies.

The MoonDogs will be host to the Waterloo Bucks tonight at 7:05 pm at Franklin Rogers Park in Mankato. Tonight is Magnet Schedule Night presented by TCF Bank. The first 1000 fans will receive a free 2007 MoonDogs magnet schedule. Following tonight’s game, the MoonDogs will be off to Waterloo to finish off the series.