MANKATO, MN – The Stingers had a three-game winning streak snapped  as the Mankato Moondogs pulled within a half game in the Northwoods League North Division, beating Willmar 9-4. The Stingers defense committed a slew of errors and fell behind 9-0 through four innings. However, the bullpen pitched effectively over the second half of the game to shutout Mankato (8-6) after a five-run fourth inning.

  Logan Moon (C. Arkansas) continued his hot-hitting in a Stingers uniform. The outfielder finished 2-4 with a base hit and a triple, logging two RBI. Through two games, Moon has recorded four hits in eight at-bats and has four RBI to his credit.

  Andrew Crook and Tyler Hamer each pitched two innings of shutout relief. Over the second half of the game, the Stingers offense came to life, scoring the last four runs of the game. Jake Gronsky (Monmouth) finished the game with a base hit, driving in one run which brings his season total to four RBI. Colton Bottomley, who notched five RBI last night, plated another bringing his season total to eight.

  The Stingers aim to avenge the loss against Mankato in the series’ second game Wednesday night at 7:05. After that, the Stingers return home for a game against the Moon Dogs.  Willmar (8-5) is tied atop the Northwoods League North Division with the Waterloo Bucks.

  The 2013 season is presented by Charter. For more on your Willmar Stingers, please visit www.wctrib.com