LINCOLN — David Espinosa drilled a two-run home run and Tommy Collaro went deep for the fourth straight day as the Saltdogs (16-23) downed the Kansas City T-Bones (22-19) 6-4 in front of 2,802 fans at Haymarket Park Saturday night.
Espinosa’s fourth-inning homer into the visitor’s bullpen gave Lincoln its first lead since Sunday afternoon. The ‘Dogs added three runs on four hits in the sixth inning to stake themselves to a 6-1 advantage.
Ryan Sheldon (4-2) worked seven strong innings, allowing two runs on four hits to earn the victory. Josh Rainwater (3-3) pitched a complete game, allowing a season-high six runs to take the loss.
P.J. Zocchi pitched a dramatic ninth inning, allowing a run but ending the game with the possible tying run in scoring position to notch his ninth save.
Collaro’s solo home run to lead off the fifth was his fourth in as many days, and his sixth overall for the campaign.
Mike Provencher, Steven Holdren and Espinosa all recorded multi-hit games.
The teams meet again Saturday night at 7:05 p.m. for game two of the four-game set. Wade Mackey (3-0, 3.72) will take the hill against Lucas Irvine (0-0, 3.86). Radio coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on KFOR 1240.
Come on out to Haymarket Park Saturday night as “Mad Chad” the amazing chainsaw juggler will be in attendance to thrill the fans! All berm tickets will be two for one, for information or to order call 402-474-2255 or visit www.saltdogs.com.