LINCOLN — Justin Edwards threw seven terrific innings and Stephen Holdren smacked a clutch three-run double as the Saltdogs (10-10) toppled the Winnipeg Goldeyes (12-6) 3-1 in front of 2,466 fans at Haymarket Park Wednesday night.
Edwards (2-0) went seven, allowing one run on seven hits while striking out seven and walking none to earn the victory.
Holdren’s big hit came with two outs and the bases loaded in the bottom of the fifth, a line drive the other way into the left field corner to end a 13-plus inning scoreless drought for Lincoln.
Brandon Cooney pitched a hitless eighth and P.J. Zocchi allowed the tying run to get into scoring position but struck out two to notch his fourth save in as many chances.
The lone Winnipeg run came on an RBI single by Jon Weber in the sixth.
Fabian Williamson (1-3) went seven innings, allowing three runs on five hits while striking out five and walking three to suffer the loss.
Holdren finished 2-for-3 with a double and three RBI. Leivi Ventura went 3-for-4 with three singles.
The teams meet again Thursday night at 7:05 p.m. for the finale of the four-game series. Tony Butler (1-0, 2.00) takes the mound for Lincoln against Zach Baldwin (0-1, 6.75). Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR 1240.
Come on out to Haymarket Park for Thirsty Thursday, featuring $2 select draft beers and Pepsi fountain drinks. The first 1,000 fans through the gate will receive a Crete Carrier Souvenir cup. It’s also College Night where students can purchase tickets in the Home Run Terrace for just $5 with valid student ID. For ticket information call 402-474-BALL or log onto www.saltdogs.com.