LINCOLN — Wade Mackey spun a gem, tossing eight shutout innings as the Saltdogs (30-45) blanked the Wichita Wingnuts (44-31) 2-0 in front of 2,759 fans at Haymarket Park Monday night.
Mackey (6-1) allowed just four hits, walking three and striking out five to earn the win. The right hander did not allow a base runner beyond first base after the fourth inning.
A.J. Miller delivered an RBI single with the bases loaded in the bottom of the eighth to break through. Sean Smith singled in another run next to give the ‘Dogs their 2-0 lead.
P.J. Zocchi worked a perfect ninth inning for his 18th save.
Anthony Capra pitched six shutout frames, allowing five hits while walking three and striking out six. Nick Walters (1-2) allowed two runs – one earned – in 2/3 of an inning to take the loss.
Jimmy Rohan finished the night 2-for-4 with a walk. Miller went 2-for-4 with a RBI.
The clubs are back at it Tuesday night at 7:05 p.m. for game two of the three-game set. Brandon Sinnery (2-0, 2.84) is slated to pitch against Chris Cummins (0-0, 0.00). Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR 1240.