Home sweet home. After a controversial month featuring numerous allegations involving theft and conspiracy theory, the Spring Hill Chargers took the Traveling Keg from the Elrosa Saints in the most ethical way possible: They won it back. The home team started off slow, but mounted a rally in the 7th inning to defeat the Saints 3-1 in front of a packed house Sunday in Spring Hill. The victory earned the Chargers a split in the season series and clinched a second place finish in SCL-North standings. But most important of all, the most sought-after empty beer container in Stearns County League history is back across from Lake Henry Avenue.
Though they had first place in the division locked up with an imposing 11-1 record, the Saints still trotted out the always-imposing Aaron Vogt to the hill on Sunday. Vogt had made it this far without allowing an earned run, and he was well on his way to maintaining that 0.00 ERA as he shut out the Chargers through the first six innings. The Chargers struck in the 7th however, as they began the inning by loading the bases. Aaron Welle drew a walk to tie the game, and Jeff Schoenberg followed that up with a single to push the Chargers in front. Jamie Terres knocked in an insurance run later in the inning, as the Chargers fought back for a 3-1 advantage. The Saints threatened in the late innings, but Eric Schoenberg and Chris Spanier slammed the door to preserve the win.
Shawn Schoenberg was back on the mound for the first time in about a month while resting a knee injury. He tossed five solid innings, allowing just one earned run in his final playoff tune-up. Even after taking a mouthful of cowhide before the game, Eric Schoenberg came on to shut the Saints down for two innings to pick up the victory. Chris Spanier locked down the final six outs for his first save.
So it's on to the post-season. The Chargers won't be rolling into late July with as impressive of a record as last year, but that might not be a bad thing. They will host Meire Grove in the first round of the playoffs next Sunday. The Grovers sent the Chargers packing last year-wiping them out in the second round of the playoffs. The next round? Who cares. It's one game at a time in the playoffs, as the Chargers look to avenge last years disappointing loss to the Grovers. It's go time, baby.
(AP Sartell)