August 14, 2023
WILLMAR, MN – The St. Cloud Rox (43-25) took game two of a best-of-three series to complete the sweep against the Willmar Stingers (51-16) with a 8-7 final score, Monday, August 14th. St. Cloud finished the regular season in 2nd place in the Great Plains West division with 43 wins.
The starting pitcher for St. Cloud was Tommy Gross. Gross made his 4th appearance against the Stingers, striking out six batters over 5.0 innings of work. Gross went 6-1 during the regular season, being named a 2023 Great Plains West All-Star and a 2023 Postseason All-Star. He had an incredible year for St. Cloud as a starter and reliever, with a 1.14 ERA over 39.1 innings pitched, with 44 strikeouts and a 1.07 WHIP.
After falling into a six-run deficit early, St. Cloud climbed their way back, starting with a three-run 6th inning. Jose Gonzalez reached base three times, with a hit and two walks, scoring twice. Over 14 games in the regular season, Gonzalez had four extra-base hits and 17 RBI. Anthony Mata had two hits, with an RBI and a run scored. Mata had four hits, including two home runs, and five RBI in the series against Willmar. Oscar Serratos had two hits in game two, driving in three runs for St. Cloud.
St. Cloud’s depth in the bullpen was on display in game two. Owen Marsh worked a scoreless 6th inning in his 1stplayoff appearance. Brooks Ey dominated over 2.0 innings, holding Willmar to no runs while striking out three batters. To clinch the series and earn the save, Jake Burcham worked a scoreless 9th inning.
Today’s All-Star Trophy and Awards Star of the game is Oscar Serratos!
The Rox continue the playoffs on Tuesday, August 15th, with a 6:35 pm first pitch against the La Crosse Loggers. You can find ticket information here. The 2023 Rox playoffs are presented by Minnwest Bank. For a complete game & promotional schedule, ticket information and everything Rox please visit www.stcloudrox.com
