The heat and humidity took its toll on both the Red Birds and the Class "A" Lakers this afternoon. The managers agreed to play only 7 innings of the non-league game.   But the fans present were treated to Fan Appreciation Game and everyone in attendance received a vegetable scraper courtesy of By The Woods Landscaping, Red Bird Supporter and Sponsor of Fan Appreciation game. The final score was 10-0, with the Lakers scoring off all three Red Bird pitchers.  Three pitchers for the Lakers held the Red Birds to 2 singles and a double while striking out a combined 8 Red Bird batters.

Cary McLaughlin got the starting nod from Manager, Chris Reuvers for the Red Birds.  He struggled with control, allowing 7 walks over three innings and 4 of the free passes came around to score for the Lakers.  Jeff Douglas pitched three ininngs, allowing three runs on 4 hits and 1 walk.  Tom Bergner pitched the 7th allowing the final 2 runs on 2 hits and a fielding error by the Red Birds.  Bergner did record the only strikeout of a Lakers batter for the Red Birds.

Bobby Krzmarzick and Justin Thompson each had singles and Tom Bergner lined a double to left field for the only hits for the Red Birds.

The Red Birds now have to get serious about the game on Monday Night (tomorrow) against the Arlington A's.   With Henderson beating Le Sueur earlier today, Chanhassen is assured of no lower than a # 3 seed in the Central Division.  A win on Monday night at Arlington, by at least three runs, and the Red Birds get the # 2 seed and will host Arlington on Friday night for a 7:30 PM start at Storm Red Bird Stadium.   Anything else, puts them back in Arlington next Friday night.

Watch this space for updated information about the Playoffs.

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