Watch Live
Lunkers Win Third Straight
July 10, 2010
BRAINERD Minnesota--Stephen Wickens' lead off home run in the bottom of the first inning gave the Lunkers an early lead and they never looked back, beating the River Bats 4-3.
The Lunkers' bullpen came up big, as a 45 minute lightning delay forced Nick Anderson, the Lunkers' starting pitcher, out of the game after two shutout innings. Aaron Sapp (4-1) got the win, throwing four innings giving up only one run. Rob Matthews followed by throwing two innings, surrendering only one run. Neither of the runs allowed by Sapp and Matthews were earned.
In the bottom of the eight, Russ Hopkins drove a ball into the right-center gap, scoring Matt Hillsinger, giving the Lunkers much needed insurance.
The hit looked even bigger when, pitching for the second straight game, Lunkers closer, Ray Black, gave up a run in the ninth. But, for the second straight night, Black retired Devon Rodriguez--this time as a pinch-hitter--to end the game and get the save, his fifth of the season.
With the win, the Lunkers have secured a winning homestand, their first of the season. They also secure the series win against the River Bats and they will play for the sweep tomorrow. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. at Stewart C. Mills Field.
