LINCOLN — Matt Forgatch gave the Saltdogs (34-29) a mid-game lead with a two-run homer but Trois-Rivieres Aigles (27-33) went on to score six quick runs to take the inter-league series opener 6-2 in front of 2,526 fans at Haymarket Park Tuesday night.
After Forgatch bombed a two-run shot to left, his fourth of the year, the Aigles quickly tied the game with two in the top of the sixth. Trois-Rivieres followed with four in the seventh, thanks to a stretch with six hits in seven batters.
Garrett Bullock (4-3) pitched seven innings, allowing two runs on five hits to earn the victory. Stayton Thomas (2-2) surrendered four runs on six hits in two relief innings to suffer the loss.
Moises Melendez turned in six quality innings, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out six and walking four for Lincoln.
Curt Smith finished the night 3-for-4. Conor Spink worked a perfect ninth inning to keep the Saltdogs within striking distance.
For the second straight game, all Lincoln's offense came on a home run ball. The Aigles have now won six straight.
The clubs are back at it Wednesday night at 7:05 p.m. for game two of a three-game series. Stephen Bougher (2-3, 3.34) will be on the hill to face Luis Munoz (1-1, 4.82). Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR 1240.
Wednesday night is Saltdogs T-Shirt giveaway from Nelnet, and Saltdogs Fan Feast, benefitting Lincoln Food Bank!