SEWARD, NE – The Lincoln Saltdogs pitching staff dominated in a season-opening exhibition win over the Sioux City X’s at Plum Creek Park in Seward on Sunday night.
Brent Dean knocked an RBI single and Brandon Jacobs roped a solo home run to account for the only runs in the 2-0 shutout win.
The game was scoreless heading to the bottom of the 7th when Cesar Valera tripled and Creighton Wilke walked to set up Dean for the opportunity. The right-handed catcher lined a base hit to right field to score Valera and allow the ‘Dogs to claim the 1-0 lead.
Jacobs reached base three times in the game, including the homer in the 8th. The left fielder is returning for his second season with the Saltdogs after hitting .280 with 34 RBIs and 11 home runs last season. Sunday’s blast was a line drive shot that curled over Plum Creek Park’s left field fence.
Leuris Gomez earned the win for the ‘Dogs after tossing a perfect first inning. The Saltdogs used a different pitcher in each inning. The game went 10 innings to allow players to get more chances in an exhibition setting.
This was the second year the Saltdogs have played a preseason game in Seward. The next Saltdogs exhibition game is Friday, May 12th at Lawson Park in Waverly. The ‘Dogs host the Kansas City T-Bones with first pitch at 6:45 PM.
The home opener for the Lincoln Saltdogs is Thursday, May 25th at Haymarket Park against the Cleburne Railroaders. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased by calling (402) 474-2255 or visiting Saltdogs.com. For the latest information on the Saltdogs follow the team on Facebook and Twitter/Instagram @saltdogsball.