The former closer for the University of North Dakota went 4-for-5 from the five-hole in the order, belting in two runs, including the go-ahead RBI in the 10th.

Benson also came in to pitch the final three innings to record the win for the Merchants.

The Merchants led 2-1 until the Elks tied the game up 2-2 with a run in the top of the eighth. Dan Ross went 3-for-5 for the Merchants, while Steve Hirchert and Preston Jensen each posted a hit.

Hirchert also pitched the first seven innings, allowing one run on five hits while striking out eight. The Elks committed four errors in the ball game, as the Merchants improved to 19-8 on the season.

The Merchants move on to face LaMoure in Fargo tonight.

Merchants 3, Elks 2

Elks 001 000 010 0 — 2 8 4

Merchants 000 200 000 1 — 3