Enderlin, ND - The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants kicked off the 2020 season this past weekend with the Enderlin Indies Baseball Tournament.

Tournament play began Friday night with a 5-2 loss against the Moorhead Mudcats.  The Merchants managed only three hits against the Mudcats, highlighted by Carlos Turpo’s RBI double off the left center fence.  The hit was Turpo’s first career Merchant hit.  Brandon Baumgartner took the loss on the mound for the M’s giving up five runs (three earned) over six innings.

 

The M’s bounced back on Saturday in an extra inning thriller over Tolna.  After a back and forth affair the Merchants finally prevailed on a walk off wild pitch in sudden death extra innings.  Cayden Barta struck out 12 batters and John Eckstein picked up his first career Merchant win in relief.  Bryan Erstad, Beau Brunsvold and Ryan Aarhus each had two hits for the M’s.

 

On Sunday with Merchant staff leader Greg Lunski still at the lake.  “I was only leaving the lake if we played in the title game.” Stated Greg. “I’ll make my debut on Wednesday.”  The Merchants once again turned to newcomer John Eckstein and boy did he deliver.  Eckstein twirled a complete game four-hitter. Setting down the final 13 Valley City Saints to win his second game of the weekend and leading the Merchants to a fifth place finish.  Preston Jensen, Carter Dodd and Beau Brunsvold each collect two hits in the 8-2 victory.

 

Notably absent this weekend was the Mayor of Enderlin, Jeff Nold. Who was quoted saying “Nah. I’m up for re-election next year. 2021 I make my comeback.”

 

The Merchants will be out for revenge on Wednesday as they take on the Moorhead Mudcats once again. First pitch 7:02pm at Helling Field.

 

Remember make sure to keep your distance and enjoy your Beast responsibly.