Loons top Rattlers

The Great Lakes Loons jumped out to an early lead and held on to beat the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Sunday by a score of 8-5.

The Loons scored all eight of their runs between the second and fifth innings as Great Lakes posted at least one run in each frame. James Peterson and Scott Van Slyke knocked in two runs each.

The newest Loon, designated hitter Rick Taloa, went 2-for-5 with two runs scored in the contest.

Steven Johnson started for the Loons and pitched five innings allowing five runs (four earned) while striking out six. Thomas Melgarejo came out of the Loons bullpen to pitch 2.2 innings allowing four hits and striking out four. Miguel Ramirez retired all four batters he faced in relief to pick up his thirteenth save of the season.

Nolan Gallagher pitched 3.2 innings for Wisconsin allowing six runs (three earned) in his Midwest League debut while picking up his first loss of the season.

The Loons return to Midland Monday to face the Clinton Lumberkings in the first game of an eight game homestand. Highly touted L.A. Dodgers prospect Clayton Kershaw is scheduled to get the start for the Loons.

A box score of Sunday’s game is available at milb.com.