Willmar, Minn- The Mankato MoonDogs kicked off the 2012 season in fine fashion Wednesday night, defeating the Willmar Stingers 10-4 at Bill Taunton Stadium.

The MoonDogs opened up the scoring early, as J.M. Twitchell (UT Arlington) belted a two run home run in the first inning to give Mankato an early 3-0 lead. After allowing a Stingers run in the bottom of the first, the ‘Dogs would score four more runs in the top of the second inning to take a commanding 7-1 lead.

Willmar made it interesting in the middle innings piecing together three runs in the fifth and sixth innings combined. MoonDogs starter Seth Webster (Nicholls State) struggled with his control, leaving the game in the sixth inning after allowing the tying run to reach base. Reliever, Zach Hall (Parkland) entered the game with the bases loaded and nobody out, retiring the next three batters to work his way out of the jam.

Hall dominated the Stingers offense over the final three innings, striking out seven while retiring 12 of his 13 batters he would face. Webster picked up his first win of the season, allowing four runs, on eight hits while striking out two Stingers in five innings of work.

Stingers starting pitcher, Scott Leiser (St. Cloud State), suffered the loss lasting just 5 innings, allowing seven runs on 12 hits, while walking two and striking out six.

The MoonDogs and Stingers are back in action Thursday at Bill Taunton Stadium for the final game of this two game series set for 7:05 p.m.

The MoonDogs return to Franklin Rogers Park Friday for the home opener against the St. Cloud Rox at 7:05 p.m. Opening Night is presented by Wealth Enhancement and AM 1230 The Fan in Association with Radio Mankato. Minnesota Twins Hall of Famer, Rick Aguilera, will be on hand to throw out the first pitch followed by a post-game Fireworks Extravaganza.

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.