GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — The Saltdogs (4-3) rallied for two runs in the eighth and held on to beat the Grand Prairie AirHogs (2-5) 4-2 in front of 4,876 fans at QuikTrip Park Wednesday afternoon.
Kevin Howard ripped a RBI double down the first base line to score Ian Gac, who had reached on an error, to give the Saltdogs the 3-2 lead in the top of the eighth. Two batters later Chad Mozingo launched a ground rule double over the right fielder's head to make it 4-2.
T.J. Bozeman (1-0) pitched two scoreless innings of relief to earn the win. Marshall Schuler worked a scoreless ninth to book his second save of the series, and of the season.
Brett Hunter (0-1) allowed two runs – one earned – on three hits in one inning of relief to take the loss.
Eric Brooks pitched six innings, allowing two runs on seven hits but did not factor into the decision. AirHogs starter Trevor Harden fanned 10 batters in seven innings of work.
For the sixth time in seven games, Maikol Gonzalez had a multi-hit game in the lead-off spot for Lincoln. Mozingo and Eddie Young each had two hits for the 'Dogs as well.
Lincoln is off Thursday and opens at Haymarket Park Friday night at 7:05 p.m. against Winnipeg. RHP Nick Green (0-0, 0.00) is expected to make his Saltdogs debut against RHP Matt Jackson (1-0, 0.00). Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR 1240.
The Saltdogs host Winnipeg Friday, May 23 for their home opener at Haymarket Park with a fireworks show after the game. Tickets are available by calling 402-474-2255 or by visiting www.saltdogs.com.