by Michael Dixon, Lincoln Saltdogs

LINCOLN, Nebraska – John Bezdicek allowed two runs over a career-best seven innings, but the ‘Dogs fell 2-1 in the opener against the Cleburne Railroaders at Haymarket Park on Friday night.

BOX SCORE

Bezdicek allowed two runs on six hits with three walks and four strikeouts, but the ‘Dogs (41-50) left two runners on base in each of the final two innings and lost for a third consecutive game.

Cleburne (43-48) opened the scoring on a solo homer from Kacy Clemens in the 2^nd inning. Clemens later added a run in the 4^th on a sacrifice fly.

Lincoln got on the board in the 8^th inning when Luke Roskam hit a leadoff homer. After walks to Randy Norris and Justin Byrd, Rayder Ascanio tried a sacrifice bunt that resulted in an out at third base. Ryan Long then grounded out and Jason Rogers struck out to end the inning.

The ‘Dogs then got a leadoff single from Josh Altmann in the 9^th. Welington Dotel’s groundout moved him to second before a strikeout from Hunter Clanin. Roskam then worked a walk to extend the rally, but Norris struck out to end the game.

Cleburne’s Garett Alexander allowed one run over seven-plus innings, while Nick Gardewine picked up his 15^th save of the season.

The ‘Dogs used just one reliever – R.J. Fruere went two innings and retired six of the seven batters he faced.

The series continues Saturday night. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m., and pregame coverage begins at 6:35 p.m. on ESPN Lincoln 101.5 FM/1480 AM.

The Saltdogs are playing their 21^st season in Lincoln! Visit saltdogs.com and follow us @saltdogsball on all social media for information regarding tickets and promotions all season long.