Lakers' offense awakens in rout of Prairie Cardinals

SANDPOINT — After two frustrating one-run losses against Prairie to open the season, it looks like the Riley Creek Lakers are back on track, as the offense exploded for 26 runs in a doubleheader sweep of the Cardinals Sunday at War Memorial Field.

Starter David Dishong scattered 10 hits over 5 innings for the win, and every batter in the the lineup scored two runs as the Lakers won the opener 18-6. Nick Halpin was read hot at the plate, going 3 for 5 with 5 RBIs. Joel Cramer and Scott Snow each had a double and drove in four apiece, and Cole Tonnemacher went 3 for 4. 

The infield of Halpin, Tevin Hamilton, Sherman Ewing and Tonnemacher played error free ball, and left fielder Matt Kingsley and right fielder Brian Remsen each turned in a defensive gem. 

The second game was a bit closer, with the Lakers (2-2) winning 8-5 and evening their record on the season, with all four games coming against the same opponent.

Halpin continued his torrid pace going 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs and two runs scored. Tonnemacher was 2 for 3 with 2 RBIs, and Snow and Cramer combined to drive in the remaining runs. Tyler Gordon pitched a solid game, striking out eight batters and Tonnemacher came in to strike out the final Prairie player and register the save.

The Lakers make their home debut today, when they host Coeur d’Alene in a doubleheader at War Memorial Field, with the first pitch slated for 5 p.m. Come on down to the ball park and have a hot dog, support your local players and enjoy some great baseball.