LINCOLN — Bryan Pounds hit three home runs, becoming just the second Saltdogs player in franchise history to do so, as Lincoln (44-37) drubbed Gary SouthShore RailCats (46-34) 14-4 in front of 5,373 fans at Haymarket Park Sunday evening.
Pounds, who was acquired in a trade from Sioux City Saturday, went 4-for-5 with three home runs and four RBI. It was the second time the Houston native hit a hat trick in 2013, the first came May 31 as an Explorer against the 'Dogs.
Matt Forgatch and David Espinosa each went yard as well, and the five home runs and 14 runs scored set season-highs for the club, who completed the sweep over Gary to pull to within 2 1/2 games of the wildcard lead.
Pete Parise (10-5) pitched six strong innings, allowing just one run on four hits to earn the win, and a share of the league lead in victories.
Alain Quijano (10-6) surrendered six runs on nine hits in six innings to suffer the loss.
All nine starters had at least one hit, as the 'Dogs finished the season series with a 7-3 record against the RailCats.
Dan Underwood hit three home runs for the Saltdogs August 14, 2005 against Joliet.
The 'Dogs open a three-game road trip Monday night at 7:05 p.m. at Kansas City. Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR 1240.