Sioux Falls, S.D. — Facing the most home run-happy team in the American Association, the Sioux Falls Canaries launched five home runs in the first six innings to take down the Chicago Dogs in this weekend’s series opener, 10-5.

After Sioux Falls took a 10-1 lead through seven innings, Blake Allemand ripped a bases-clearing double in the eighth as the Dogs pushed back to bring the tying run to the on-deck circle in the ninth inning. Canaries reliever Ryan Fritzke then entered and shut the door, recording the final three outs and sealing the victory.

Winning Pitcher: RHP Tyler Danish

Losing Pitcher: RHP J.D. Busfield

Save: N/A

Star of the Game: INF Blake Allemand. Allemand’s three-run double in the eighth inning kept the Dogs competitive. The Chicago shortstop finished 2-for-3 from the dish, one of two Dogs with multiple hits, joining Edwin Arroyo.

Next: 

• Who? Chicago Dogs vs. Sioux Falls Canaries, Game Two
• Where? Sioux Falls Stadium, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• When? Saturday, 6:05 p.m. CDT
• Pitching matchup? RHP Eddie Butler (Chicago) vs. LHP Ty Culbreth (Sioux Falls)
• Broadcast: bit.ly/chidogsradio

Extra Bite: After the loss, the Dogs now sit five games back of the Canaries for the American Association’s final playoff spot. With an elimination number of two, the Dogs face Sioux Falls six more times to close out the season.

Boxscore

By Sam Brief, Chicago Dogs