LINCOLN — Ryan Sheldon was magnificent, and the Saltdogs (37-52) supported him with a big fourth inning to fuel a 7-1 win over the Sioux Falls Pheasants (39-50) in front of 5,073 fans at Haymarket Park Wednesday afternoon.
With more than 2,400 fifth graders in attendance on LPS Day, Sheldon (6-4) went seven strong innings, allowing one run on just three hits while striking out six and walking three to earn the win.
Chris McMurray spanked a two-run homer to the deepest part of the park to give the ‘Dogs a 2-0 lead in the second.
Wilberto Ortiz capped off a five-run rally in the fourth with a three-run shot to left, his third home run of the home stand.
Peter Gehle (6-8) allowed seven runs on eight hits in four innings to suffer the loss.
Saltdogs pitchers did not allow a hit in seven of the nine innings, and did not allow any after the fifth frame.
The ‘Dogs are back at it Thursday night at 6:35 p.m. for the final home game of the campaign. Radio coverage begins at 6:06 p.m. on KFOR 1240.