LINCOLN — Mike Burns was masterful, twirling a three-hit shutout as the Saltdogs (47-40) blanked the Rockland Boulders (42-43) 4-0 in front of 4,045 fans at Haymarket Park Sunday afternoon.
 
Burns (7-4) went the full nine innings, allowing just three hits and no walks while striking out seven to earn the win. It was the fourth shutout in the 35-year old's 12-year career.
 
Curt Smith bombed a massive two-run homer to left center in the top of the first to stake Lincoln to the early 2-0 lead.
 
The 'Dogs added two unearned runs in the third on a Bryan Pounds double and Tyler Goodro single.
 
Charlie Law (2-3) gave up four runs – two earned – in five innings, striking out seven and walking three to suffer the loss.
 
Lincoln is now 27-19 at home, and remains two games back of Gary in the American Association wildcard chase.
 
The Saltdogs are off Monday and open a three-game series at El Paso Tuesday night at 8:05 p.m. Radio coverage begins at 7:35 p.m. CDT on KFOR 1240.