Alexandria, Minn – The Mankato MoonDogs ended their two game losing streak Thursday night, defeating the Alexandria Beetles 7-1 at Knute Nelson Memorial Ball Park.

The Mankato MoonDogs got an outstanding performance from starting pitcher Abel Guerrero (Galveston) as the left hander shutout the Beetles over seven strong innings. Guerrero (2-0) held batters in check all night, allowing only two hits while striking out six. Guerrero was selected in the 36th round of the MLB Draft earlier this week, selected #1088 by the Cleveland Indians.

Offensively the MoonDogs were led by Shawn Cooper (Utah) who went 4-for-4 with a homerun and 2RBI. Coopers led off the fifth inning for Mankato, crushing his first homer of the summer deep over the left-center field wall, but had to leave the game in the bottom of the ninth after being hit by a pitch. He is expected to be ok.

The MoonDogs finish up their five game road trip tomorrow night in Alexandria. Kyle Richter (USC) makes his third start for Mankato.

The MoonDogs (7-2) return home Saturday night to Franklin Roger Park to take on the Brainerd Lakes Area Lunkers (6-4) in a battle for the top spot in the Northwoods League North Division. Saturday is MAYBA/MAGFA Night. All kids wearing their MAYBA or MAGFA jerseys get in free with a paid adult! Military Family Appreciation Night presented by the Rotary clubs of St. James, Madelia & Fairmont along with: Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Committees of Watonwan, Brown & Martin Counties. Season and single game tickets are now on sale at the MoonDogs office located at 1221 Caledonia Street. For more information visit our website at www.mankatomoondogs.com or call the MoonDogs office at 507-625-7047.