(Mankato, MN) – The MoonDogs (7-10, 24-27) saw good hitting early, but the bats had a harder time as the game went on as Mallards starter Brian Smith (4-2) held the MoonDogs to just two runs in his seven innings and Madison (9-8, 25-26) beat the MoonDogs 7-2 Wednesday night in Mankato. MoonDogs starter Brendan Lafferty (2-3) went six innings, giving up five runs, three earned, on seven hits in the loss.

The MoonDog offense was led by first baseman Adam Abraham, who was 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI. Third baseman Nate Hanson also finished 2-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI. Shortstop Jason Christian singled, stole a base and scored for Mankato. Following Lafferty’s six innings, reliever Josh Castanza went 1 2/3 hitless innings. Tim Ryan gave up two runs in two-thirds of an inning, and Mark Haderlein finished off the game for the MoonDogs, going two-thirds of an inning without allowing a hit.

The Mallards offense was efficient, scoring seven runs on nine hits. Third baseman Bobby Hubbard was 1-for-3 with a two-run triple in the ninth inning. Second baseman Ryan Tinkoff was 2-for-2 with two runs and an RBI. Left fielder Jordan Comadena was 2-for-4 with a double, stolen base, run scored, and RBI. Shortstop Brandon Wikoff was 2-for-5 with a run scored.

Smith went seven innings, giving up two runs, just one earned, on five hits. Reliever Travis High threw a scoreless eighth inning, and Bubba O’Donnell finished off the game for the Mallards, shutting out the MoonDogs in the ninth.

The MoonDogs are home to Madison again tomorrow night to close out the series. Tomorrow night is Minnesota Twins Night at Franklin Rogers Park in Mankato. Former Twin Al Newman and TC Bear will be at the game, as well as Wally "The Beerman.” Game time is slated for 7:05 pm.