SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The Saltdogs (8-7) went big in the fifth inning, scoring six runs to go on to defeat the Sioux Falls Pheasants (6-8) 10-5 at The Birdcage Friday night.
Five of the runs in the fifth came in with two outs, highlighted by an A.J. Miller three-run double to right center.
Justin Edwards (1-0) pitched six innings, allowing three runs on six hits while striking out five and walking zero to earn the victory. Mark Michael (1-2) gave up nine runs on 11 hits in six innings to suffer the loss.
John Alonso remained red-hot at the plate, going 3-for-5 with three runs and two RBI, running his batting average up to .390 and adding to his American Association lead with 23 RBI.
Tommy Collaro launched his first home run as a Saltdog, a solo home to left in the ninth inning. Collaro has collected five hits in his first two games in a Lincoln uniform.
Leivi Ventura and Joe Spiers each posted multi-hit games as well.
Sioux Falls had a chance to get back to .500 for the first time since May 11, 2011 but failed to do so, committing three errors in the loss.
The teams meet again Saturday night at 6:05 p.m. for game three of the four-game series. Tommy Palica (1-2, 6.61) will pitch against Alan DeRatt (0-0, 1.64). Radio coverage begins at 5:35 p.m. on KFOR 1240.
The ‘Dogs return home to Haymarket Park Monday, June 4 against Winnipeg. It is a ‘Military Monday,’ featuring free reserved tickets for all Military personnel and their families. For ticket information call 402-474-BALL or visit www.saltdogs.com.