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After taking a beating yesterday, the Hounds looked to get a win and capture their first ever MCL title. The Hounds were taking on the NWI Oilmen for the final time of the regular season. With a slim 1.5 game lead over the Oilmen, this was an important test for the dogs.

 

The Hounds went with Brent Jurceka (1-0, 2.29 ERA) to try and seal the deal. His last appearance was against the Oilmen on July 17 where he pitched one inning of scoreless ball.

 

The Oilmen went with James Hinkleman (0-2, 5.40 ERA) who was making his second start of the summer. His last appearance was a in a loss to the Chicago Zephyrs where he threw 5 1/3 innings.

 

After an efficient top of the first, the Hounds went to work as they quickly got two men on base. Brian Rodemoyer then quickly emptied the bases with a 340-foot homerun to left field. It was his third of the season.

 

The Dogs didn’t stop there as they tacked another run on with an RBI single by Matt Richer in the 2nd inning.

 

The Oilmen didn’t concede as they struck back with two runs in the top of the 4th, but the Hounds’ bats stayed hot. Paul DeJong drove a ball to deep center that got him a leadoff triple. He was brought in on an error off the bat of Rodemoyer. The Hounds then lead 5-2.

 

After 6 2/3 solid innings Jurceka exited the game for Alexander Bernstein (3rd app). Jurceka gave up five hits and two runs while striking out six.

 

In the 7th, a sharp single by DeJong and a throwing error brought LaComb in all the way from first. That made the score 6-2 Hounds.

 

This game was all Hounds right from the start. The Hounds got the win giving them their first MCL regular season champions in team history.

 

The final: 6-2 Hounds

 

They play tomorrow at home against the Rockford Foresters at 7 p.m. Congratulations to the Hounds on their first title.