MANKATO, Minn. – The Mankato MoonDogs couldn’t get their ‘Dogs in a row as they fell to the Willmar Stingers Friday at Franklin Rogers Park 10-4.
The Stingers who started off strong, scoring two runs in the first inning exploded throughout the night with four home runs. Leading the Stingers was Dillon Haupt (San Diego) who finished 2-4 on the night with two runs scored, two RBI and two home runs to lead the ‘Dogs 10-2 going into the ninth inning.
The MoonDogs took advantage of errors as Chase Simpson (Oklahoma) landed himself a single off of a Stinger error. John Michael Twichell (UT Arlington) brought Simpson home to score the first MoonDog run. The ‘Dogs would end up scoring one more run to match the Stingers going into the second inning. However, the MoonDogs couldn’t solidify their offense as they went scoreless until the bottom of the ninth.
Trailing by eight in the bottom of the ninth, the ‘Dogs attempted a comeback by reeling in two runs, sending Kyle Turner (Missouri Baptist) and Chase Fowler (Southern Mississippi) through home plate. Even with two runs scored it was the Stingers who turned the lights out on the ‘Dogs, striking out Chad Christensen (Nebraska) for the final out and a 10-4 defeat over the MoonDogs.
Starting pitcher, Wayland Moore (Marshall) suffered his first loss of the season after 4 2/3 innings of work, giving up six runs on four hits, while striking out five Stingers. The Southpaw is 3-1 on the summer, with a 4.57 ERA.
The MoonDogs continue their home stand against the Willmar Stingers Saturday for a 6:05 p.m. first pitch. It is Jersey Giveaway Night presented by Crystal Valley Co-op and AM 1230 The Fan Mankato. The first 500 fans will receive a MoonDogs replica jersey, gates open at 5:05 p.m. It is also Boy Scout Night at The Frank. Scouts are invited to camp at The Frank following the game.
Single and season tickets are on sale at the MoonDogs office located at 1221 Caledonia Street. For more information, visit our website www.mankatomoondogs.com or call the MoonDogs office at 507-625-7047.
