Summer was officially in full swing this past weekend as a heat wave pounded thru central MN just in time for the hometown team to sweat their asses off (thank god for anti-monkey butt) against divisional rival Meire Grove.  Though the wind was blowing in from right field Friday night, it was in full force towards the outfield Saturday as the Chargers exploded for a season-high four homers in winning the first game 15-3.  The Grovers answered with a 8-0 victory on Sunday, as the Chargers looked worn down from a tough night of opening pull tabs and drop-kicking fans at Horseshoe.

Saturday's game proved just how potent this offense can potentially be.  The Chargers busted out of the gate with a seven run first inning, more than enough support for Aaron Welle, who went the distance while striking out seven.  Shawn Schoenberg showed no ill-effects of an injured knee as he went 3-4 with RBI, including his team- leading fifth home-run of the year.  Jamie Terres collected 3 hits of his own while driving in a team-high four runs.  Corey Schoenberg and Cody Eichers both went 2-4 with a home-run, and Dave Stalboerger and Eric Schoenberg also chipped in with two hits apiece.  Nathan Terres also blasted a home run, followed up with being greeted by his always-supportive teammates at home plate.  The offensive surge produced the teams first seven inning victory since they took out Freeport in that style back in May.  Even though it was scheduled to be a shorter game, it's still fun to tell people we beat the Black Sox in seven innings. 

Sunday's game proved to be a bit more relaxing and laid back as the Grovers jumped out to an early lead and blanked the Chargers 8-0.  Matt Imdieke continued his mastery of the Chargers, allowing just a double to Cody Eichers through six innings of work.  Eric Schoenberg started on the mound, taking the loss while allowing five earned runs.  Chris Spanier came on in relief to finish out the game.  The Chargers emptied their bench later in the game, sending out a young squad for the latter half of the game.  They even put me in at third base for the first time since Raymond 2001.  We'll just leave it at that.

The Chargers round out the regular season with another much-anticipated battle with the Elrosa Saints.  The home team let the coveted traveling keg slip through their fingers last game, and they've been thirsting to bring it back to its rightful home.  As usual, throw the records out the window when these two squads lock horns in what is sure to be another epic battle.

(AP Sartell)