Warkentin doubles twice, homers to help lead Goldeyes past Saltdogs

The Winnipeg Goldeyes defeated the Lincoln Saltdogs 9-7 on Friday. Photo: Winnipeg Goldeyes

May 16, 2025

By Trevor Curl

Winnipeg Goldeyes

LINCOLN, NEB. – The Winnipeg Goldeyes launched three home runs, including a go-ahead three-run blast in the eighth inning, to defeat the Lincoln Saltdogs by a score of 9-7 on a windy Friday evening at Haymarket Park.

Lincoln struck early, taking a 7-3 lead through five innings behind a five-run third frame. Spencer Henson belted a three-run homer, and Yusniel Díaz added a solo shot to give the Saltdogs early momentum.

However, Winnipeg chipped away at the deficit. Designated hitter Max Murphy tied Josh Mazzola for second in franchise history with his 90th home run in a Winnipeg uniform—a three-run shot in the third. Matthew Warkentin (Windsor, Ont.) added a solo homer in the seventh to bring the Goldeyes within one.

The decisive blow came in the top of the eighth. Facing former major leaguer Jake Diekman, Ramón Bramasco crushed a three-run home run to left field, putting the Goldeyes ahead 9-7.

Reliever Ben Kowalski earned the win with 4 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing four hits and striking out four. Jesse Galindo started the game, pitching 4 1/3 innings and allowing seven earned runs. Jacob Roberts took the loss for Lincoln.

The series continues Saturday evening with first pitch at 6:05 p.m. C.T. Right-hander Ryder Yakel gets the start for Winnipeg, while the Saltdogs send Johnny Ray to the mound.