Early Ambush, Larkins Lead 'Dogs to Third Straight Win
July 9, 2016 - American Association (AA)
Lincoln Saltdogs News Release
JOPLIN, Mo. -- After a five-run first-inning, the Saltdogs (26-22) held off the Joplin Blasters (14-33) 7-3 in front of 757 fans at Joe Becker Stadium Saturday night.
The victory for Lincoln, its third straight, coupled with a Gary SouthShore extra-inning loss puts it back first place alone in the American Association Central.
Curt Smith slugged a two-out double off the center field wall, sparking a run of six straight Saltdogs hits in the opening frame.
Jon Smith highlighted the two-out rally with a three-run homer to right, his eighth of the year.
Matt Larkins (6-1) pitched eight innings, allowing just two earned while striking out six to earn the win.
Brad Orosey entered with the bases loaded and two out in the ninth to strike out Alex Polston and earn his third save.
Orosey has now stranded all 18 runners he's inherited on the campaign.
Robby Kuzdale went 2-for-3 with two walks, a double and a run. Pat Kelly went 2-for-4 with a two-out RBI and a stolen base.
For the second straight night, all nine Saltdogs had at least one hit.
Joplin has now lost 13 consecutive contests.
First pitch was delayed 62 minutes due to a tardy-starting pre-game wrestling match.
Lincoln goes for the four-game sweep Sunday evening at 5:05 p.m. RHP Lindsey Caughel is expected to face RHP Alex De La Cruz.
Radio coverage begins at 4:35 p.m. on KFOR FM 103.3/1240 AM.
The 'Dogs are back home Monday evening at 6:35 p.m. to open a three-game home stand against the Texas AirHogs. Great seats are available at saltdogs.com.
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American Association Stories from July 9, 2016
- 7-Run 7th Helps Laredo Take Game 3 - Texas AirHogs
- Goldeyes Rebound in Sioux Falls - Winnipeg Goldeyes
- Early Ambush, Larkins Lead 'Dogs to Third Straight Win - Lincoln Saltdogs
- RailCats Can't Hold Lead, Fall 5-4 to Wingnuts - Gary SouthShore Railcats
- Wichita Stretches Streak to Nine in Extras - Wichita Wingnuts
- Forsythe's Solid Outing Helps Clinch X's Victory - Sioux City Explorers
- Von Schamann Silences Canaries' Bats in 6-1 - Sioux Falls Canaries
- Hamburger Tosses Complete Game in 3-1 Win - St. Paul Saints
- Big Inning Derails Blasters in Loss to Saltdogs - Joplin Blasters
- Canaries Beat Goldeyes in Sioux Falls - Winnipeg Goldeyes
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