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Lincoln outfielder Deacon Burns steps in against Wichita Sunday night
It might have been the Saltdogs’ “Christmas in July” promotion on Sunday night, but the team couldn’t give their fans the present of a victory over the Wichita Wingnuts.
A win would have guaranteed Lincoln at least a share of second place in the American Association North, and a sweep over the best team in the league.
Lincoln seemed poised to take the early lead over Wichita after they loaded the bases with two out in the first, but Brandon Jones flew out to right field, and Lincoln never really threatened again.
The game remained deadlocked at zero until Wichita managed to score a run thanks to Nick Blas. Blas hit an infield single to short, that was a closely contested play at first. When Blas was called safe, Mike Thompson was able to cross home plate. Wichita added three runs in the eighth to salt the game away.
Top Dogs:
Third baseman Brandon Jones was really the only Saltdog that had much of a game. Jones was the only Lincoln player who had two hits, going 2 for 4 including an infield single in the ninth to lead off the inning. Jones was stranded at first that inning, but credit goes for trying to start a rally.
In the Dog House:
Relief pitcher Darryl Arreola came into the game with his team down 1-0, and left with the Saltdogs trailing by four. Arreola was just a home run away from allowing the cycle to Wichita. The Wingnuts put their second run on the board in the blink of an eye. Cleanup hitter Dustan Mohr led off the inning with a double, and was driven home by the next batter, Kelly Hunt. Steve Pearson tripled home Hunt one batter later.
Lincoln will take Monday off, and then begin the second half of the season in Sioux City for a three game set. Brian Campbell will take the hill for Lincoln.
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