The Willmar Stingers ended the Border Cats' perfect home record Sunday evening with a 14-2 beating.
The Stingers struck early, cashing in nine runs on only two hits in the top of the first inning at Port Arthur Stadium. All nine runs were scored with two outs already recorded.
After two seemingly routine outs, the strike zone suddenly became elusive for Cats starter James Buckelew. With his command disappearing, the Cats were forced to use the bullpen to grab the third out and end the pummelling. The left handed starter only allowed one hit, but walked six and watched seven runs score during his brief time on the mound.
The damage was mitigated by Cats reliever Kurtis McCallum, who was able to give his team 6 1/3 innings.
But the Stingers still managed to find success at the plate, scoring four runs – three earned, off five hits against the right handed reliever.
McCallum recorded three walks to his four strikeouts.
The Cats are now 4-8 for the season.
The home stand continues at Port Arthur Stadium as the Cats welcome St. Cloud Rox for a three-game series. The first game of that series takes place Monday at 7:05 p.m.
