FARGO, N.D. — The Saltdogs (12-15) split a pair of decisions with the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks (17-10) in front of 3,084 fans at Newman Outdoor Field Thursday night. Lincoln was bested 5-4 in the resumed game from Wednesday, and hung on 6-4 in the seven-inning nightcap.
The 'Dogs rallied for two runs in the top of the ninth inning in the second game of the series, which was suspended in the middle of the fourth due to rain Wednesday, but stranded the possible tying run on base.
Justin Erasmus (2-0) pitched two scoreless innings of relief to earn the win. T.J. Bozeman (1-2) allowed three earned in four frames to take the loss. Nate Garcia surrendered two runs in the ninth but secured his ninth save of the year.
In the seven-inning series finale, Lincoln sprung for four runs to break a tie in the fifth, navigated choppy waters in the sixth, and held for a sweep-avoiding victory. Matt Forgatch grounded a two-out, two-run single to center to give the 'Dogs the necessary 5-1 lead.
Marquis Fleming (3-2) pitched five innings in the nightcap, allowing two runs to earn the win. Taylor Stanton (0-3) allowed five runs in 4 2/3 innings to suffer the loss. Marshall Schuler struck out Nic Jackson with the bases loaded to end the sixth, and recorded the final four outs to earn his sixth save.
Chad Mozingo went 2-for-4 with three RBI, and Forgatch went 2-for-4 with two RBI.
The 'Dogs are back at home Friday night at 7:05 p.m., hosting division-leading Gary SouthShore. RHP Justin Kuks will square off against RHP Morgan Coombs. Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR 1240. Tickets are available at www.saltdogs.com.