FARGO, N.D. — Jeremy Hamilton had three hits and Chase Cunningham retired 20 of 21 at one point but the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks (32-50) toppled the Saltdogs (30-52) 5-3 in front of 3,076 fans at Newman Outdoor Field Wednesday night.
After Lincoln battled back from a 3-0 first-inning deficit, tying the game in the top of the eighth on a Mike Gilmartin sacrifice fly, Fargo quickly plated two runs in the bottom of the inning to make it 5-3.
Former Husker Mike Nesseth worked a perfect ninth for his 13th save.
Cunningham allowed three runs on four hits to the first five batters, then sent down 20 of the next 21 batters. The only time a RedHawk reached over that span was on a broken bat infield single.
The 22-year old old hurler dropped his first professional decision, allowing five runs on eight hits in 7 1/3 innings, striking out three and walking zero.
Tyler Thompson (3-2) pitched 2/3 of an inning to get the win in relief.
The Saltdogs look to avoid the four-game sweep Thursday night at 7:02 p.m. LHP Kevin McGovern is set to face LHP Tyler Alexander. Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR FM 103.3/1240 AM.
Lincoln returns home for a Fireworks Friday August 21 at 7:05 p.m., beginning a weekend series against Sioux City. Get your tickets now at saltdogs.com.