LAREDO, Texas — After the Saltdogs (24-39) battled back in the sixth inning, the Laredo Lemurs (29-33) pulled away late in a 16-6 victory in front of 5,147 fans at Uni-Trade Stadium Tuesday night.
Lincoln tallied three in the top of the sixth to cut its deficit to 9-6 and had the tying run on base. Laredo then added to its lead on a Jimmy Mojica solo shot in the bottom half of the inning, and six more in the eighth.
Matt Way (7-4) pitched five-plus innings, allowing six runs on eight hits while striking out four and walking two to pick up the win. Tommy Palica (1-6) surrendered 10 runs on 11 hits in 5 2/3 innings to suffer the loss.
Sean Smith blasted a solo home run in the third inning to give the ‘Dogs a 2-1 lead before Laredo scored eight runs over the next two innings. Smith finished the night 3-for-5 with a home run, a double and two RBI.
Asif Shah had a solid night at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a run and RBI. John Alonso booked a multi-hit game as well.
Palmer Karr Jr. led the Lemurs with three hits, including a home run, and six RBI.
The teams meet again Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m. for the series finale. Ryan Sheldon (5-2, 4.03) will square off against former Saltdogs hurler Tony Butler (2-5, 5.89). Radio coverage begins at 7:05 p.m. on KFOR 1240.
The ‘Dogs return home to Haymarket Park Friday night to open a three-game series against Sioux City. For ticket information call 402-474-2255 or visit www.saltdogs.com.