(Brainerd, MN) – The MoonDogs (7-10) extended their winning streak to three games with a 6-3 victory over the Brainerd Blue Thunder (5-12) on Sunday night. The Blue Thunder struck first as they plated three runs in the first four innings. The MoonDogs finally got on the board with two runs in the fifth inning. The MoonDogs then scored three runs in the eighth inning to seal the victory. Jordan Tiegs (1-2) pitched seven innings to snare the victory while Bryan Evans (0-1) took the loss for the Blue Thunder.

The MoonDogs bats came alive yet again as they pounded out ten hits. Catcher Mike Melillo hit his third double of the season, scored two runs and recorded one RBI in a 4-for-4 performance to lead the MoonDogs offensive attack. Left fielder Jovan Rodriguez turned in a solid showing going 2-for-4 with an RBI, while first baseman Mike Lobacz and right fielder James Keithley each recorded the doubles to help the cause. Shortstop Bobby Munoz also had a two run triple to round out the MoonDog attack.

Tiegs gave the MoonDogs pitching staff a solid effort, giving up three runs along seven innings of work and striking out two Blue Thunder batters. Reliever Tom Porter came in and pitched one inning of scoreless baseball while striking out one. Blake Devries then came on in the ninth inning to close the door while recording his fourth save on the season.

The Blue Thunder, who scored all of their runs in the first four innings, were led by center fielder Andy Dirks and catcher Andrew Pascoe with both recording two hits on the night. Right fielder Ryan Royster recorded a triple while driving in two runs and shortstop Adam Symons drove in the other Blue Thunder run.

Starter William Blackmon went five innings, giving up two runs and striking out four MoonDog batters. Reliever Bryan Evans came on in the sixth inning, giving up four runs while striking out two to take the loss for the Blue Thunder. Reliever Tyler Brandon came on for one inning of relief in the ninth.

The MoonDogs look to extend their streak to four games with a game tonight at 7:05 in Brainerd. The MoonDogs then come back to Mankato to take on the Blue Thunder for another two game series, and begins their ten game homestretch.