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FARGO, ND — St. Paul scored the game-winning run in the top of the 12th inning Friday night to take Game 1 of a three-game set from the RedHawks in front of 4,230 fans at Newman Outdoor field. Fargo-Moorhead (38-21) and the Saints (38-21) are now tied for first place in the American Association’s North Division.

The RedHawks scored both of their runs early in the game — the first coming from sacrifice fly off the bat of Tim Colwell in the first inning and the second coming when Brian Olson grounded into a double play in the second, allowing Corelle Prime to score from third base.

The Saints managed to cut the RedHawks’ lead to one in the fifth inning on an RBI single from Troy Alexander. Unfortunately for the RedHawks, a mishandled ball in the seventh inning by CF Devan Ahart allowed the Saints’ tying run to advance to third and score on an Alexander groundout.

Each starting pitcher went deep into the game and kept their respective teams in the game. The RedHawks’ Ryan Williams (4-0) tossed 6.1 innings, allowing one earned run, four strikeouts, and no walks. Ryan Zimmerman (4-1) threw seven innings for the Saints, allowing two earned runs, striking out six, and allowing two walks. 

Both bullpens were lights out tonight as well with each not allowing a run until the 12th inning. The deadlock was broken in the 12th by Troy Alexander, who drove in his third run of the game in the form of Chesny Young, who had a two out double in the prior at-bat for his fourth hit of the night.

RedHawks’ third baseman Leo Pina’s 21-game hit streak came to an end with his 0-4 night tonight. His streak is the longest hitting streak in the American Association this season.

The RedHawks and Saints continue their series on Saturday night at Newman Outdoor Field. First pitch for Game 2 of the series is scheduled for 6 p.m. RHP Bret Helton (3-2) is scheduled to start for the RedHawks against RHP Eddie Medina (5-1) of the Saints.