(Mankato, Minn.) – The Alexandria Beetles, led again by the bat of Jake Tanis (Mercer), handed the Mankato MoonDogs their third consecutive loss Thursday night, as they came back to win 11-8 in Alexandria at Knute Nelson Ballpark.

Mankato, not wanting to take any chances late in a tie game, brought in their closer Chase Joiner (Memphis). However, Joiner struggled from the get go by giving up a triple and loading the bases on back-to-back walks. That brought up Tanis, already 3-4 in the game, and he hit a bases clearing double, putting the Beetles up for good.

The Beetles looked to be in command from the start, leading 7-2 after five innings. The MoonDogs still had some bark left though, battling back with a six run sixth inning. Jordan Steranka (Penn State), who was 4-for-6 on the night, started the inning of with a single, which was followed by a Robbie Robinson (Indiana State) single, with two on and no one out, Danny Miller (Minnesota State) came to the plate.

Miller, trying to bust out of a season long slump, came up with another single and an error by Alexandria’s second baseman allowed Steranka to score from second. This chased the Beetle’s starter, Brandon Garcia (USC), from the game. Garcia pitched five innings, allowing seven hits and punching out five batters.

MoonDogs’ starter Joby Lapkowicz (Slippery Rock) went three innings, the longest start for the MoonDogs in their last three games, allowing four hits, four runs, and four walks, while striking out one.

The MoonDogs return home for two games starting Saturday, June 26th against the St. Cloud River Bats for Dora the Explorer night, presented by Charter Communications. The next night is Think Pink Night where players will be wearing pink jerseys that will be auctioned off throughout the night, and the proceeds will go to a local Susan G Komen team. Think Pink Night is presented by Liv Aveda Salon & Spa, Mankato Clinic, Denco Lighting & Country 103.5.