MoonDogs Exterminate Beetles
(6/23/05)

Thanks to a five run sixth inning, the MoonDogs went on to sweep their division rivals, the Beetles, in a two-game series in Alexandria. Aaron Grant’s game tying homerun in game one ignited him in game two, going 3-5 with a triple and 2 RBI to help carry his team to a 6-4 win over the Beetles.

MoonDogs pitcher Brandon Thomson and Beetles pitcher Darren Coltrinari faced off in a 1-1 ball game through five innings. The MoonDogs teed off in the sixth inning though with 11 batters and 5 runs. After a sacrifice in the 2nd, L.J. Mims singled in the 6th to pick up the MoonDogs first two RBI of the game. Jon Rupno also singled in the inning to plate two MoonDogs runners. When the sixth inning came to a close, the scoreboard read 6-3 in favor of the ‘Dogs.

With Brandon Thomson in position for his first win of his Northwoods League career, the game was handed over to the bullpen. Kevin Regan pitched two innings allowing one run but striking out three Beetles. Closer, Neil Wagner came on in the ninth with the score 6-4 and shut down the Beetles to earn his third save and Thomson’s first win.

Brandon Crawford, fresh off a plane from California, appeared in his first Northwoods League game, going 2-4 with a run scored. First baseman Robert Rodebaugh hit an impressive 2-5 with a double and 2 runs. Bobby Verbick also doubled in the game and went 2-4 at the plate. Reid Fronk was hitless for the first time in his Northwoods league career ending his 10 game hitting streak.

The MoonDogs return home on Friday, June 24, at 7:05 p.m. to host the St. Cloud River Bats. Mike Miller gets the nod on the mound for the ‘Dogs as they look to continue their hot play as of late. The always exciting "Rockin Ray and The Skyy Dogs” will be entertaining fans all game long with his repertoire of dog tricks. For tickets call the MoonDogs office at 507-625-7047.