WILLMAR–A first inning run and a 2-1 lead after four innings looked to be enough for the Stingers on Thursday at Stewart C. Mills Field in Brainerd, but the Lunkers tied the game in the eighth to force extra innings.  In the top of the tenth, Willmar centerfielder Isaac Ballou delivered his second hit of the game, a two-run single to put Willmar up 4-2.  On came Jayson Huett for the bottom of the frame, shutting down the Lunkers  with two strikeouts in a scoreless tenth to earn his third save of 2010.

Stingers starter David Carroll impressed in his fourth start of the season, going seven and a third innings allowing a pair of runs, but came away with yet another no-decision.  Wally Marciel came on the record the final two outs of the eighth inning for Carroll, giving way to Florida Gulf Coast righty Jacob Barnes in the ninth.  Barnes’ big fastball was impressive again on Thursday, in his fifth appearance of the year, as Barnes got credit for his first win of 2010 after shutting down Brainerd in the inning, extending the Stingers winning streak to three games.

Next up for the 12-10 Stingers, it’s the finale of this three game set with the Lunkers, this time in Willmar.  The first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm at Bill Taunton Stadium on Friday.  It’s Willmar Fests night at the ballpark, so Willmar Fests candidates will compette throughout the game for the title of Stingers Willmar Fests Champion.  For tickets call 320-222-2010 or visit willmarstingers.com for more information.  Remember to log on to wctrib.com for all your Stingers coverage. The 2010 season is presented by Charter.