August 8, 2023
ST. CLOUD, MN – The St. Cloud Rox (41-23) took victory in game two against the Duluth Huskies (34-30), earning the sweep with a 9-1 final score, Tuesday, August 8th. The Rox continue the season series with a 6-2 record against Duluth. St. Cloud has clinched a playoff spot and are still fighting for a 2nd Half championship.
The starting pitcher for St. Cloud was Tommy Gross. Gross made his 3rd start for St. Cloud, pitching a career-high 6.2 innings. The Minnesota Gopher transfer gave up just four base runners and one earned run, striking out a career-high eight batters. Gross has been nearly untouchable over 12 total appearances this season, with a 6-1, a 1.14 ERA, and 44 strikeouts over 39.1 innings pitched.
Kevin Butler had three hits, including two doubles, and three runs scored. Butler has four doubles and 11 runs scored over 11 games played. Sawyer Smith reached base three times, with a double, an RBI, and a run scored. Haiden Hunt hit a double and an inside-the-park home run, driving in two runs and scoring twice, also stealing two bases. Hunt has been an anchor at the top of the order for St. Cloud, with a .338 batting average, 21 runs scored, and 15 stolen bases through 19 games.
Ronaldo Fernandez was the first arm out of the bullpen, pitching 1.1 innings, holding the Huskies scoreless. In his 1st appearance on the mound for the Rox, Sawyer Smith threw a scoreless 9th inning to cap the victory.
Today’s All-Star Trophy and Awards Star of the game is Tommy Gross!
The Rox return home on Wednesday, August 9th for a 6:35 pm first pitch against the Minot Hot Tots to continue a five-game homestand! It will be Team Poster Giveaway Night for all fans presented by Rengel Printing Company. The Rox kickoff the playoffs on Sunday, August 13th, against the Willmar Stingers. The 2023 Rox playoffs are presented by Minnwest Bank. The Rox will wear special jerseys that can be purchased through a special online auction. For a complete game & promotional schedule, ticket information and everything Rox please visit www.stcloudrox.com
