EAU CLAIRE, Wisconson -- An epic hot streak helped the Willmar Stingers win the Northwoods League's North Division first-half pennant and a spot in the postseason.
Having secured a spot in the playoffs next month hasn't lessened the Stingers' desire to win.
Kiko Garcia pitched eight superb innings and Willmar's offense made efficient use of 11 hits in a 9-0 victory over Eau Claire on Saturday.
The Stingers improved to 3-0 in the North Division's second half and are tied with St. Cloud for first place. They wrap up a four-game set against the Express at 6:05 p.m. today at Carson Park.
Willmar plays two games at Waterloo on Sunday and Monday before returning to Bill Taunton Stadium Tuesday to begin a seven-game homestand.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Stingers scored single runs in the second and fourth innings, but opened things up with a three-run fifth. They made it a no-doubter with four more runs in the ninth.
Garcia allowed just three hits and a walk while striking out eight.
Kyle Gilbert was 2-for-5 with a home run and three runs batted in, and Tyler Leffler hit a solo home run.
Eddie Estrada, Lucas Tancas and Ky Parrott all were 2-for-4 and Estrada and Parrott both had RBIs.
The Stingers have won five straight games and they are 18-4 since beginning the season 8-8. After the .500 start, Willmar won 15 of their final 19 first-half games to win the pennant.
