Dock Spiders Fall to Woodchucks 2-1

FOND DU LAC, WI – The Dock Spiders were in search of their third straight win heading into their matchup with the top team in the Great Lakes West Division, the Wausau Woodchucks on Friday night. Dock Spiders Right-handed pitcher Sebastian Guzman pitched well as he held the Woodchucks dangerous offense to no runs throughout five innings of work. The Dock Spiders offense got going in the top of the second inning as right fielder Jared Heinzen (Wisconsin-Parkside) lined a single into left field and then catcher Paul Smith (Rice) roped an RBi double which gave the Dock Spiders a 1-0 lead early on. They were able to hold the lead until the bottom of the eighth. Dock Spiders reliever Tanner Smith (Presbyterian) entered the game and walked the bases loaded. Smith was removed and the Dock Spiders called for their ace in the hole, Right hander Zach Silfies (Elizabethtown).

Silfies entered the game with the bases loaded and only one out to work with. He surrendered an RBI single to Woodchucks shortstop Simon Scherry (Evansville) that tied the game and then a walk drawn by Woodchucks first baseman Jake Baker (Kansas) scored the winning run. The Dock Spiders offense was retired in order in the top of the ninth and that closed the coffin on a tough game. Woodchucks right handed pitcher Nic Schutte (Western Kentucky) received the win, Dock Spiders right handed pitcher Tanner Smith (Presbyterian) was tagged with the loss and Woodchucks closer Brian Reinke (Richmond) received the save. The Dock Spiders will be back at home on Saturday night when they take on the Woodchucks. It’s Star Wars night at Herr-Baker Field! Dock Spiders players and coaches will take the field in Mandalorian and Grogu-themed Star Wars jerseys! These jerseys will be available via auction and will benefit the Fond du Lac area United Way. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 P.M.