Baseball: Costly Mistakes Hurt Warriors in Loss to Alexandria – Brainerd Dispatch

The Brainerd Warriors faced a tough doubleheader against the Alexandria Cardinals, resulting in a sweep with scores of 14-5 and 11-9. The Warriors struggled from the start, falling behind 6-0 in the first inning of Game One. Despite efforts to battle back, the Cardinals extended their lead to 11-0 by the third inning.

Errors plagued the Warriors throughout the games, with a total of nine committed. Head coach Tom Fairbanks acknowledged the lack of energy and execution from his team, emphasizing the need to work on the fundamentals before their next game.

In Game One, pitcher Keaton Lingenfelter struggled, allowing all 11 runs with six earned in three innings. However, relief pitcher Aetryu Marcelo provided some stability, allowing just two earned runs in four innings.

Game Two started similarly, with the Cardinals jumping to a 5-0 lead in the first inning. Despite a late rally by the Warriors in the fifth and sixth innings, they fell short, ultimately losing 11-9.

Braxton Tautges stood out for the Warriors in Game Two, recording three hits and four RBIs. Despite the losses, Fairbanks commended the team’s improved performance in Game Two and expressed determination to bounce back in their upcoming game against Willmar.

The Warriors’ overall record stands at 3-3, with room for improvement as they continue to work on their game.