La Crosse Loggers close out first half with win

The Loggers took a 3-1 lead in the first inning, but the Moondogs pulled it back to 4-4 in the fourth, then La Crosse retook the lead 6-4 in the bottom of the inning.

Once again, Mankato fought back, tying the score at 6-6 with a two-run rally in the seventh inning, but the Loggers responded again with a four-run rally in the seventh inning to regain the lead for good.

The Loggers had five pitchers take the mound, with Kaden Taque earning the win, giving up two runs on one walk and two hits in one inning. Luke Valks earned a save, giving up one run on one walk and two hits with three strikeouts.

Left fielder Zach Wadas led the La Crosse offense, hitting the game-winning grand slam in the seventh to go 1-for-4 with a walk and four RBI. Shortstop Gable Mitchell also hit a home run and finished 1-for-3 with a walk, a home run, two steals, two RBI and two runs scored.

La Crosse and Mankato return to action Tuesday at 6:25 p.m. at Copeland Park for the first game of the second half of the schedule.