Haug’s timely homer, Adams’ glove flip lead Dogs to ninth win in 10 games

By Jack Ankony

The American Association’s batting average leader Wyatt Ulrich dug into the batter’s box with runners at the corners and two outs in the sixth.

Ulrich stung the ball up the middle with his mind set on tying the game, but Dogs shortstop Johnny Adams wouldn’t allow it. Adams made a full-extension dive to his left and flipped the ball out of his glove to Grant Kay.

Adams’ web gem not only ended the inning, but halted a golden opportunity for Sioux Falls with their best hitter at the plate. And with Brendan Smith and Jeff Kinley waiting in the bullpen, it was game over for Sioux Falls as the Dogs emerged with a 3-2 win and a series sweep.

This marked the Dogs’ ninth win in their last 10 games and their 150th all-time win since the team was formed in 2018. The game also gave new signee Ryley Widell a win in his first start as a Dog.

Going into the game, the plan was for Widell and Garrett Christman to double team the starter role before Butch Hobson looked to his bullpen. Widell tossed three scoreless innings and allowed two walks while striking out two batters.

Christman made his first appearance out of the bullpen this season and bridged the gap from Widell to the bullpen. Christman went three inning while giving up seven hits, two earned runs, one walk and two strikeouts.

Facing a 1-0 deficit heading into the sixth inning, it was perfect timing for Ryan Haug’s first home run of the season. After Anfernee Grier tied the game by scoring on a passed ball, Haug blasted a pitch to the opposite field to put the Dogs ahead for good.

Brendan Smith pitched a scoreless inning before Hobson called on his closer Jeff Kinley for a two-inning save. Kinley continued his dominance by allowing no hits or walks and striking out three batters.

Kinley’s ERA is now down to 0.87 on the year after recording his seventh save. With this win, the Dogs cling to a one-and-a-half game lead on the Milwaukee Milkmen for first place in the North Division.

The Dogs and Milkmen’s rivalry will continue on Tuesday as Milwaukee visits Impact Field. The teams will play three full games, as well as the continuation of July 1’s suspended game that the Dogs led 10-6.