Dock Spiders Close Out Against the Rafters

The Fond du Lac Dock Spiders pulled past the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters 6-4 behind an eight-strikeout performance from starting pitcher Will Niles.

Fond du Lac jumped ahead early, scoring in the bottom of the first inning when Tommy Googins advanced home on a pickoff attempt. The Rafters responded with two runs in the top of the second, but the Dock Spiders quickly regained the lead in the bottom half of the inning. Googins delivered a two RBI double to put Fond du Lac ahead 3-2.

The Dock Spiders extended their advantage in the third inning, scoring twice on a Carter Kelley RBI single and a Rafters throwing error to make it a 5-2 game. Wisconsin Rapids cut into the deficit again in the sixth inning, but Kelley answered with an RBI double in the bottom half to restore a three-run lead.

The Rafters attempted a late comeback, scoring once in the eighth inning, but Fond du Lac held on to secure the 6-4 victory and extend its home winning streak to seven games.

Niles earned Player of the Night honors after delivering one of his strongest outings of the season. The right-hander tossed six innings while allowing just two walks and striking out eight batters, tying his season-high strikeout total.

The Dock Spiders pitching staff combined for 11 strikeouts while allowing just two walks. Jaden Morris closed out the game with a nine-out save, his first of the season.

Fond du Lac’s offense collected 11 hits, with Tommy Googins, Patrick Graham, Carter Kelley and Joey Monetti each recording multi-hit performances. Kelley led the way offensively, going 2-for-4 with a double and three RBI.

The Dock Spiders return to Herr-Baker Field on Wednesday for a 6:35 p.m. matchup against the Minnesota Mud Puppies for Local Heroes Night & Touch-A-Truck. The Dock Spiders will recognize police officers, firefighters, EMTs and first responders who serve the community. Fans can arrive early for Touch-A-Truck, featuring an up-close look at emergency and service vehicles from around the area.