The Merchants defended their State Title Sunday with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Jamestown Hounds.  Tommy Linn provided the firepower with a 3 run bomb to right field in the first inning.  The Hounds got single runs in the first and second innings and that was all the scoring.  

Derek Zitzow started on the hill for the Merchants throwing three solid innings giving up two runs on four hits while striking out two.  Brandon Baumgartner threw a marvelous four scoreless innings to close it out.  Baumy gave up three hits and no runs to give the Merchants their second state title in as many years and their 13th overall as an organization.

Kobe Senn, Bryan Erstad, Lane Ulmer, and Drew Clouse also added hits on the sunny afternoon at Jack Brown Stadium.

The Merchants started out the tournament by beating the Mavyille Redcaps 3-1.  Erstad hit a two run shot in the first inning to set the tone.  JB Morales also added an RBI double.  Ethan Clouse threw a solid 4 1/3 innings and Baumy closed down the final 2 2/3rds to get the save.

To get the title game the Merchants had to get by a young and upcoming Casselton team.  Down 1-0 through three and a half innings the Merchants found their groove in the bottom of the 4th scoring four runs, then added three more in the 6th to win 7-1.  Chayton Senn led the way with two hits and three RBI's.  John Eckstein went the distance on the mound scattering five hits and striking out six.

The Merchants finish the season 10-4 and will be celebrating the title all year long as they are all just as sweet as the last one.  We'll see you next year as the M's look to three-peat, something they haven't done since the 2006-2008 seasons.

The Merchants wrapped up the regular season with a clean, crisp 3-2 win over a tough Mudcats team.  Solid pitching and some timely hitting were the difference.  The Merchants used a total of six pitchers to get some work in before State and they were all brilliant.  Ethan Claus got the win on the mound going the first two innings then Eckstein, Zitzow, Baumy, and Alme all got holds while Chayton Senn picked up the save.

JB, Jesse, Erstad, and Lane all had two hits.  Erstad drove in a pair and also set the all-time Merchants hit record with his 648th and 649th hits.

Next up is the ND AAA State Tournament on Friday, August 26th at 7:00 pm in Jamestown at Jack Brown Stadium.  The Merchants will play the winner of Mayville and Casselton which play the day before.  The Merchants are on a quest for back to back state titles for the first time since the 2017-2018 seasons.  Can they do it?  Come on out and watch and see!

After dropping two to the Catfish earlier this year the Merchants were back on top at Helling Field on Wednesday night, 3-1.  Brandon Baumgartner picked up the win going five strong innings allowing only one run and striking out three.  Ethan Claus and Derek Zitzow picked up one inning holds and John Eckstein closed it down in the final two innings.

Alex Urlaub got things going with his first ever Merchant hit doubling in the first inning.  Bryan Erstad and Tommy Linn ripped RBI singles and that was all the Merchants needed.  They did tack on a passed ball run in the sixth inning for some insurance.

Urlaub was the Merchant Big Hat Player of the Game setting the tone at the top of the order, stole a base, and made a half dozen plays at 2nd base.

The Merchants rose above .500 with the win, sitting at 5-4 now.  There are only two games left in Fargo League action and then the State Tournament in Jamestown.  Next up is the Mayville Redcaps next Wednesday at Helling Field, 7:00 start time.

The Merchants stayed hot run ruling the Mets 12-0 for their second shutout in a row in Fargo league action.

Tommy Linn led the way going 5 for 5 with 3 runs scored.  It was the first 5 for 5 games since 2015 when Australian Lewis Weldon had 5 hits against the Elks in Valley City.  He also set the Merchant 40 record that day so it's a special moment in Merchant history.

Colten Alme and Drew Clouse added 2 hits apiece.  Derek Zitzow, Clouse, and Chayton Senn all had 2 RBI's while Senn added a triple as well.

Ethan Claus was lights out on the mound throwing a strong 5 innings with 5 K's and only 3 hits.

The Merchants evened their record on the year to 4-4.  Next up is a revenge game with the Catfish next Wednesday at Helling Field.

Beau Brunsvold provided the big bop hitting a towering 3 run homer to left in the 5th inning to put the Merchants up 5-0.  There was no looking back from there as they cruised to the shutout win.  John Eckstein set the tone going 6 scoreless innings allowing 4 hits and 4 strikeouts to get the win.  Derek Zitzow threw two scoreless innings and Brandon Baumgartner finished off the 9th with a clean inning himself.

Jesse Munsterman had 3 hits including a double and a RBI.   Kobe Senn also tripled and scored two runs.

The Merchants are now 3-4 on the year clawing their way back to .500.  Next up is the Mets on Wednesday at Helling Field.

After a rough couple weeks the Merchants clawed their way back for their second win of the year, both against Mavyille.  Kobe, Caden, and Beau led the way at the plate all getting two hits with Caden and Beau adding doubles, and Kobe and Beau both driving in two.   Zitzow got the win on the mound, his first in 10 years after a slight hiatus has found him back in a Merchant uniform.  7-2 was the final.

The Merchants hope to be back to their winning ways after dropping games to the Catfish (6-2) and Elks (6-5) in the past two weeks.  The loss to the Catfish snapped a 20 game win streak against the scrappy new and improved squad.

Solid defense, five pitchers, some key hits, and five errors from the Redcaps vaulted the Merchants to a 5-1 win at Helling Field on Wednesday night.  Brandon Baumgartner threw three perfect innings with four strikeouts to set the tone and get the win.  Jake Bryant and Drew Clouse led the way with two hits a piece and Preston Jensen drove in three runs.  Newcomer Chayton Senn and JB Morales pulled off two double steals to get in scoring position and score big runs for the M's.

The Merchants evened up their record at 1-1 and will be in action next Wednesday vs. the Catfish on Helling Field.

The Merchants opened their 2024 campaign on a down note as they were Crow'ed 6-4 on Wednesday night at Teamsters field.

Wednesday night warrior Jesse Munsterman led the way going 2 for 2 with 2 doubles, 3 walks, and 3 stolen bases.  Five Merchant pitchers contributed in the effort but an unconventional 9 walks and 3 errors did in the Merchants.

They will be back at it next Wednesday against the Mayville Redcaps on Helling field.

The Merchants beat the Hounds 3-1 on Sunday afternoon to capture their 12th NDAB State Championship.

After five years, the Merchants are back on top of AAA NDAB.  Ethan Claus and Brandon Baumgartner combined to get the win and the save in a tight nerve racking game.  Ethan started going 3 2/3rds working out of multiple jams while Baumy came in for the final 3 1/3rd.  Ethan only gave up two hits but walked four and hit two, also striking out two.  Baumy came in with the bases loaded in the 4th inning with two outs and got a fly out to center field to get out of the jam.  He then scattered five hits over the final three innings allowing only one run and striking out one to earn the save.

Kobe Senn led the way at the plate going 2 for 3 with a run scored and a double.  Colten Alme hit a big insurance home run to make it 3-0 in the 4th, just clearing the right field ivy.  Jesse Munsterman and Tommy Linn also had RBI's for the Merchants in the championship win.

We want to thank all the fans, wives, girlfriends, kids, grandparents and everyone for coming out and supporting the Merchants this year.  It's been a fast fun year and we look forward to defending the title in 2024!

John Eckstein wanted the ball and to pitch seven innings in the semi-finals of the NDAB AAA State Tournament.  He got the ball and his seven innings as he scattered nine hits allowing four runs, two earned, and striking out six against the Hounds.

For the second day in a row, Bryan Erstad hit a three run go ahead home run and the Merchants didn't look back from there.  They added single runs in the 4th and 5th innings to get some insurance for the 6-4 win.  Kobe Senn went three for four leading off.  Colten Alme also went three for four.

Sitting at 2-0 in the tournament, the Merchants once again await the winner of a Hounds/Elks game to see who they will play for the NDAB title.  Game time is 1:00 pm on Sunday at Jack Brown Stadium.

The Merchants waited until the 7th inning to really get the bats going at the NDAB AAA State tournament.  Down 7-5 in the 7th, Bryan Erstad launched a three run homerun over the ivy in right field at Jack Brown Stadium to take the lead.  The Merchants didn't stop there as they plated 10 runs in the 7th enroute to a 15-7 opening game win over the Mayville Redcaps.

Erstad led the way with a HR, 2B, and 5 RBI's.  Beau Brunsvold went 3 for 3 out of the nine hole.  Jesse Munsterman and Brandon Baumgartner added two hits a piece.

Colten Alme pitched the first three innings giving up six runs, four earned on four hits.  Baumgartner threw the final four innings allowing no hits or earned runs, striking out three.

Game two will be Saturday at 2:00 pm versus the winner of the Hounds/Elks for a spot in the title game on Sunday.

The Merchants busted out in a big way with 17 runs on 17 hits to beat the Crows 17-2 in seven innings Wednesday night at Starion Field.

JB, and Erstad led the way with three hits including a double and three RBI's a piece.  Jesse added three hits while Tommy and Preston collected two hits.

John, Ethan, Baumy, Alme, and Lance all toed the rubber and held the Crows to two runs striking out 11.

Last week the Merchants dropped a game to the Mets 3-2.  Their first loss to them in 16 tries.

The Merchants look to keep the hot bats and strong pitching going into the State Tournament starting August 18th at 8:00 pm vs. Mayville in Jamestown.

John Eckstein, Ethan Claus, and Brandon Baumgartner combined to pitch the Merchants to an 8-4 victory over the Jametown Elks improving their record to 6-2 on the season.

The Merchants broke a 4-4 tie in the top of the 9th plating four runs on three hits and two walks to take the lead.  Tommy Linn had a big two run single to break the tie earning him the Beast Big Hat Player of the game.  JB had 3 hits while Linn, Preston Jensen, Caden Graf, and Josh Lawrence all had two hits a piece.

Next up is the FM Mets next Wednesday at Starion Field.

It took three hours but the Merchants were able to navigate a 15-9 win over the Catfish.  Caden Graf led the way with a four hit attack and a couple RBI's.  Jesse Munsterman slammed the first homer of the year for the Merchants with a solo blast to left field in the 9th.  Dan Ross also had two RBI's with a clutch two run single in the first inning due to wearing glasses for the first time in his life.

Four Merchant pitchers combined to limit the Catfish to four earned runs striking out 10.  Brandon Baumgartner pitched the first three innings earning the win.

Jesse was the Beast Big Hat Player of the Game.

The Merchants are now 5-2 after the win and last week's shellacking from the Redcaps, 11-1.

Next up is the Elks next Wednesday at Helling Field.

After a rain out last week, the Merchants were back in action tonight against cross town rival, the Jamestown Elks. 

Tommy Linn led the way with a four hit attack including a double and three runs batted in.  Jesse Munsterman collected three hits of his own with a double.

John Eckstein threw the final five innings getting the win striking out six Elks.  Brandon Baumgartner threw the first 4 2/3rds allowing only one hit and no runs.  Greg Lunski, making his first appearance in two years bridged the gap getting an out on two pitches.

Tommy earned the Beast Big Hat Player of the game as the Merchants moved to 4-1 on the year.  Next week is the all-star break with the Merchants back in action on July 12th vs. the Mayville Redcaps.

The Merchants smacked 20 hits en-route to a 12-2 seven inning run rule win over the Catfish on Wednesday night at Helling Field.

Bryan Erstad, fresh off his NDAB Hall of Fame induction led the way with four hits, a double, triple, and three RBI's.  

John Eckstein came out firing strikes and didn't stop for nine innings.  He knew he would have to shoulder most of the load and did just that shutting down the Mets for a complete game, 3-1 win.  The Mets struck first with their lone run in the top of the 7th, but the Merchants answered with three in the bottom of the 7th which was all the scoring on the night.  

Eckstein struck out six allowing just the one run, while walking none and scattering 9 hits working out of multiple jams.

The bottom of the order packed the biggest punches for the Merchants with Beau Brunsvold doublling in the first run and Drew Clouse bringing home the go ahead and eventual game wining RBI.

The Merchants are now 2-1 on the year as they dropped a game last week to the Mudcats, 8-6.

Next up is Mayville on Wednesday at Helling Field.

The Merchants jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the first inning and never looked back.  The lead extended to 9-0 by the 5th inning, but the Catfish did tack on a couple runs to make it 9-2 in the end.

John Eckstein hurled four stellar innings allowing one hit while striking out four.  Brandon Baumgartner threw the next four giving up two runs (one earned) while JB closed it down in the 9th with two K's.

Multiple Merchants had two hit nights including JB, Lance, Ryan, and Beau.  Beau tacked on a big two run single in the 3rd inning to give the Merchants some breathing room.

12 walks and multiple wild pitches/passed balls proved costly for the Catfish who totaled five hits on the night themselves.

Next up for the Merchants is the Mudcats on Wednesday at Helling Field.

The Merchants will be back in action on Wednesday, May 17th, at Helling Field to kick off 2023, their 35th season overall.  It's been a long off season but the guys are ready and rar'ing to get going.  The intensity has stepped up as there might even be a practice before the first game.

We are once again grateful to our corporate sponsors BWI (Beast Light) and Buffalo Wild Wings.  Without their loyal support all of this wouldn't be possible.

We will have some old faces and possibly new faces as well.  The lineup combinations will be endless, but it's a great problem to have for the Merchants.

Looking forward to a great season.  See you at the ballpark!

The Merchants came into the 2022 NDAB AAA State tournament with high aspirations and expectations.  With their 13-2 record on the year including solid pitching, hitting, and defense, signs pointed to another championship run.  However, it was not to be.

In game one the Merchants jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead on Mayville in the first inning.  They would end up scoring only one more run in the tournament which is not a recipe for success.  An 8-4 loss to Mayville was followed with a 3-0 loss to the Elks and 2-0 to the eventual champions, the Jamestown Greyhounds.

John Eckstein and Jacoby Nold pitched well against the Elks and Greyhounds respectively, but the hits weren't dropping.  It was a frustrating weekend for the M's but they'll be back next year to make another run at it.  Offseason workouts and conditioning programs are already under way for the 2023 campaign.  

It was a back and forth contest that saw the Fargo Crows prevail in 10 innings over the Merchants in their final tune up before the state tournament.  The Merchant bats took awhile to get going, but they did end up with six players with two hit games.  It still wasn't enough as the Crows pounded out 15 hits of their own.

JB took the hard luck loss on the mound as the Crows blooped in the go ahead run in the 10th with the free baserunner in the California rules.

The Merchants are now 13-2 and will look to bounce back at the upcoming AAA State Tournament in Jamestown, August 20, 21.

The Merchants were dead in the water Wednesday night against the Fargo Mets. Having mustered only 5 hits all night and staring a 5 run deficit in the face. It was over, the Merchants were doomed.  The Mets were about to get their first win in 13 tries against the Merchants.  Not so fast my friends!

“We just need five”, stated JB as the Merchant dugout collectively tried to pull themselves together for one final push in the ninth.

And one more push they got. After striking out streaky Dan "Bad Knees" Ross to start off the ninth. The Merchants went to work.

Bryan Erstad laced a right center gapper cautiously stretching a double into a single. Colten Alme followed with another single and Preston Jensen came through with a big double to cut the lead to 3.

Then the Mets started helping out. An errant infield throw allowed Jake Bryant to reach base. Carlos Turpo then roped a double in the right center gap to score both Jake and Preston to cut the deficit to one.

JB’s single up the middle tied things up at 6 and another ground ball by Jesse Munsterman was once again thrown away allowing JB to score and the Merchants to walk-off the Mets in an improbable comeback.

“I don’t think one word was spoken until a beer was cracked in the parking lot.” Said the Mets manager as he was in disbelief after losing his 13th game in a row to the Merchants.

Carlos “I think this was my first career Merchant win on the mound” collected his first career win in fine vulture fashion. Walking two and hitting one all while giving up four runs in an inning of work.

Erstad led the Merchants at the plate going to 3 for 3. JB Morales also added three hits for the M’s.

Merchants are back at beautifully artificial Starion Field for their regular season finale next Wednesday against the Fargo Crows.

Starion Field was good to the Merchants as they pounded out 17 hits in six innings to down the Mayville Redcaps 12-0.  The game was called after six and a half innings due to the run rule.

Jesse and D. Ross led the way, both getting three hits, two RBI's, and a double a piece.  Nine of the ten Merchants had hits and RBI's in the game for a well rounded attack.

Baumgartner and Eckstein combined for the shutout.  Baumy went five innings allowing two hits with three K's.  Eck closed it down in the final two innings with one hit and three K's.

The Merchants are now 12-1 on the season.  They did have their first setback last week with a close 3-1 loss to the Elks.

Next up is the Fargo Mets on Wednesday back at Starion Field.

The Merchants sweep the season series against the Catfish 3-0 and will take on their crosstown rivals the Jamestown Elks next Wednesday in Fargo.

*Note:  Zach Kluvers has since been called up to the Wausau Woodchucks of the Northwoods League.  He is continuing his hot pace collecting hits and runs as soon as he stepped off the bus.  We wish him the best and hope to have him back for the NDAB State Tournament.

John Eckstein thought it would be a short night for him during the first inning Wednesday night.  His elbow was feeling a bit tight and he had post game empenadas in the parking lot on his mind, but he settled in and ended up throwing a complete game and beating the Brewers 9-1 at lovely Bennett Elementary Field. 

The game was scoreless through six innings with both pitchers dealing.  The Merchants did have plenty of baserunners but failed to get them in.  Then, the 7th inning rolled around and specifically Dan Ross.  After three straight singles from the bottom of the order, Dan provided the big blow out of the nine hole with a line drive grandslam to left field.  That got the Merchants going as they ended up with nine runs off of 11 hits in the 7th after the dust settled.  The M's totaled 15 hits on the night with the Venezuelan connection of Carlos and JB leading the way combining for seven hits.  Tommy and Bstad doubled as well.

The Merchants move to 10-0 on the season and will be back in action next Wednesday vs. the Catfish at the friendly confines of Helling Field.

Notes:
*JB's wife did bring post game empenadas to the parking lot and they were delicious.
* The Merchants have homered out of the nine hole in two straight games.

The Merchants got off to a slow start getting only one hit through the first four innings but then found their groove smacking 15 hits in the next four innings en-route to a 15-2 drubbing of the Fargo Mets.  Five runs in the seventh and six runs in the eighth sealed the deal and moved the Merchants to 9-0 on the season.

Several Merchants had big nights with Beau Brunsvold providing the final punch with a majestic 3 run bomb in the eighth, his first homer since 2009.  It's not everyday you say a player take a hack with two strikes then look behind him for the foul ball when it's actually sailing over the left field fence.  "I really thought I fouled it off," said Beau.  "Somehow, I actually crushed it and the extra set of curls I did today gave me enough juice to get it out."  Not bad for the nine hole hitter.

Other Merchants contributed with Tommy getting four hits, Jesse three hits, Carlos, Zach, and Beau all with two hits.  Carlos had two doubles and Zach doubled off the left field fence as well.

Eckstein and Baumy teamed up on the mound limiting the Mets to one earned run.  Eck went six strong innings scattering six hits and Baumy threw the final two scoreless innings to wrap it up.

The Merchants go on the 4th of July break on a roll but look forward to re-charging and getting ready for the grueling second half of the season.

Merchant newcomer, Kobe Senn, has hit the ground running in the amateur baseball scene.  Fresh off a Legion World Series appearance for Fargo Post 400 under a year ago, Senn has not had any trouble adjusting to the rigorous schedule and competition of amateur baseball.  This does not come as a surprise to those that know him best like Post 400 and Merchant founder, Jeff Gould.  "I knew Kobe would be a great addition to the Merchants.  He has always exhibited great leadership and baseball playing skills.  It's his attention to detail, lunch pail mentality, and great teammate qualities he displays on a daily basis that really make him a special player.  I knew he would be good but I didn't know he would be this good," chimed Gould after another big night from Senn in the Merchants 6-2 win over the Mudcats.

Kobe was 2 for 4 with a RBI on the night, the only Merchant player to reach multiple hits as the crafty Mudcat pitchers gave the Merchants all they could handle.  When reached for comment, Kobe had this to say of his performance.  "I'm really disappointed I only got two hits tonight.  I usually get four so I was a bit off.   I mean, I'm obviously the best player on the team.  I'm actually kind of sick of carrying everyone.  Hopefully the other guys will step it up soon because it's really getting old.”  Senn continued on, “Also, if the Merchants would play more games I'd break every record they have.  The only thing holding me back is me not being on the field every day.  And one more thing, that ground ball that hit me in the face?  Yeah, Helling field is awful.  When is the turf being installed like Starion?  And who aerates a field in the middle of the summer?  There were chunks of dirt poops all over the place.  I'm too good to play on those types of fields.  That's all."

Brandon Baumgartner had another strong performance on the mound going five innings allowing two runs on four hits while striking out five.  He has also taken on more managerial duties this year such as writing the check for the umpire and handing it to him before the game, a very important task.  There is great potential for him to do even more in the coming years and we’re excited to see what he can do.  Baumgartner added, “How did I not get the win tonight?  I pitch five innings of lights out ball and then Brooks comes in and vultures another win?  Ridiculous.  Need some more runs when I’m pitching, guys.”  The management future is bright for young Baumgartner for sure.

With the win, the Merchants improve to 8-0 on the year.  The last 8-0 start was a long time ago.  Probably back in the aluminum bat days when times were different, no cell phones, no roller equipment bag, and Erstad was only in his 12^th year of Merchant ball.

Next up, the Mets next Wednesday back at Helling Field.

*Note – JB did make his Merchant debut on the mound.  He took the ball from Brooks in the 9^th.  Literally took the ball from him on the mound and said, “I’m pitching (in Spanish),” and looked absolutely effortless firing mid-80’s heaters by the Mudcats to close out the game.  We have another arm in the stable which bodes well for the remainder of the season.

*Double Note – Tommy did his rookie 40.  He pounded the Olde English in 1 minute 36 seconds.  A very respectable effort but far off the record of Aussie Lewis Weldon’s 16 second mark.

John Eckstein took the ball to the hill and wouldn't give it up, until the 8th inning, when Brandon Baumgartner came in and closed it down as the Merchants beat the Redcaps 6-3 on a dreamy Wednesday night at Helling Field to move to 6-0.  Lefty Eckstein scattered nine hits striking out eight and only allowing one earned run.  Baumy struck out four in the final two frames to earn the save.  Kluvers, Erstad, Jesse, and PJ all had two hits.  Erstad and Tommy both had two RBI's.  PJ doubled and Erstad smacked a triple for the first time in like a long time.

A good time was had by all.  JB hit several balls hard but only one hit to show for it.  He wants to pitch.  So, he's going to get an inning.  A few short years ago he was clocked at 95 throwing across the diamond in the Mariners organization so yeah, we need to see this.

Fargo, ND - The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants sported new jersey’s for the first time since the Clinton administration and came away with a 8-1 victory over the Fargo Mets, Wednesday night at Helling Field.

UM Crookston product Kobe Senn continued his hot start to his Merchant career collecting three more hits. Carlos Turpo, Dan Ross and JB Morales each added doubles as the M’s pounded out 13 hits. Brandon Baumgartner provided seven solid innings on the mound for the M’s collecting his second win of the season. 

The Merchants (5-0) have the weekend off before they are back in action next Wednesday against the Mayville Redcaps. 

Beast Facts: With Wednesday's win, the Merchants move to 11-0 all-time against the Fargo Mets.

It was a tale of two games for the Merchants as they blew a 6 run lead against the Greyhounds and came back from a 5 run deficit against the Elks to claim the 2022 Memorial Day Tournament title in Jamestown.  Brooks Brown collected both wins on the mound relieving John Eckstein and Matt Nelson in each game.  Newcomer Kobe Senn had six hits on the day and Drew Clouse provided the punch smacking a grand slam.  Carlos Turpo played a questionable shortstop but ran the bases like a mad man more than making up for it.

When Brown was asked how he could play outfield and pitch in both games he said, "Just give me the ball.  My sweet arms tatts will get me through this."  And they did.  

JB got on track with a couple hits and two RBI's. As did Bryan Erstad with a big 3 run double to start the comeback on the Elks along with another RBI double that scorched the top of the ivy filled chain link in right field.

While no trophy was given, the Merchants celebrated like usual with Beast and Taco John's.

Next up for the Merchants is the Mets on Wednesday at Helling Field as they look to keep their undefeated record in tact.

Brandon Baumgartner threw seven superb innings and John Eckstein closed the door on the Mudcats in the final two to keep the Merchants undefeated on the season.  Jesse Munsterman had two doubles including the big go-ahead two run double in the 8th inning to put the Merchants on top.  Exit speed was clocked at 119 mph off the bat by bat boy Caden Baumgartner.  Jesse said it got in on his hands a bit and still has plenty more juice to provide.  Newcomer Drew Clouse caught all 9 innings with the poise of a willy veteran.  He also collected his first Merchant hit.  He plans to keep the ball and save it for his grandkids to marvel at in the years to come.

Next up for the Merchants is the Memorial Day tournament in Jamestown on Saturday.  They face the defending NDAB AAA state champions, Jamestown Greyhounds, at 1:00 pm followed by an Elks club team also from Jamestown.  All games being played at historic Jack Brown Stadium.  Admission is free but water dogs at the concession stand are a must.

John Eckstein got the start on the hill while Brandon Baumgartner and Brooks Brown followed to punch out 11 Catfish in the season opener.  Baumgartner (2 RBI's) and Jesse Munsterman (1 RBI) got the big hits to drive in runs and get the Merchants in the win column to start the season.

Next up is the Moorhead Mudcats at Helling Field in Fargo next Wednesday.

The Merchants got walked off on twice and then it was over so the next season will be next season in May sometime.

The Merchants dropped a close one to the Mayville Redcaps last Wednesday, 6-5, in their season finale before the State Tournament.  Brooks Brown got the start on the mound and went a solid 6 1/3 innings while John Eckstein finished it out.  Preston Jensen led the way with 3 hits and 2 RBI's.

The M's will open up State tourney play on Saturday, August 21st vs. the Jamestown Greyhounds at 1:00 pm followed by the Valley City Saints at 5:00 pm.  The winner of that pool will move on to the championship game on Sunday at 1:00 pm for a winner take all matchup against either Fairview, the Mayville Redcaps, or the Jamestown Elks.  All games will be played at the home of North Dakota Amateur Baseball, beautiful Jack Brown Stadium.

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants won their fifth game in a row on Wednesday night defeating the Mayville Redcaps 3-2.

Things got off to a bumpy start for the Merchants when starting pitcher and Hall of Famer Greg Lunski left after two scoreless innings on the mound to attend the annual Hairball concert at the Red River Valley Fair.

Forced to dip into their bullpen early the Merchants needed to John Eckstein to pick them up and boy did he ever.

Eckstein relieved the departed Lunski and was lights out in relief. Eckstein allowed to runners to reach base over five innings of relief, while striking out five to collect his team-leading 3rd win of the season.

“Once I saw Greg leave for Hairball I knew I needed to step up”, stated John as he did his post-game band work.

At the plate the Merchants pounded out 12 hits but were only able to scrap across 3 solo runs in the 3rd, 5th and 7th innings.

The Redcaps made things interesting in the 8th scoring two unearned runs off of Brandon Baumgartner who relieved Eckstein.

However, Baumgartner got the Merchants out of the jam still with the lead by striking out two Redcaps in a row with the bases loaded.

Baumgartner then pitched a scoreless 9th to pick up his second save of the year.

The Jamestown Merchants (8-3) will take on their crosstown rivals the Jamestown Elks next Wednesday in Fargo at Helling Field.

Note: Greg Lunski actually never made it to Hairball and was back in the Merchant dugout by the 5th inning.

Merchants Stay Unbeaten Against the Mets

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants moved to 10-0 lifetime against the Fargo Mets with a thrilling walk-off win Wednesday night at Helling Field.

The Merchants were in control most of the game and took a 4-1 lead into the top of the 8th.

However, after a leadoff error and a few dink and dunk singles off Merchant reliever Brandon Baumgartner the Mets took a 5-4 lead.

“Not today!”, hollered Dan Ross from first base after he came through with his third RBI of the day tying the game up at 5 with a two out single in the bottom of the ninth.

The next batter Tommy Linn then laced a single past the Mets first baseman scoring Bryan Erstad from second to cap the Merchant comeback as they moved to (5-3) on the season with a 6-5 win.

Brooks Brown picked up his first career Merchant win throwing one scoreless inning of relief.

John Eckstein dealt in relief once again throwing four scoreless innings for the M’s.

Past Wednesday League Action

The Merchants split their previous two Wednesday games. First losing to the Moorhead Mudcats 9-5 and then beating the Mayville Redcaps 7-4.

Zach Kluvers, Bryan Erstad and Tommy Linn each collect two hits in the loss to the Mudcats.

Against the Redcaps, Bryan Erstad collect four hits and three RBI’s to lead the Merchants at the plate. Brandon Baumgartner picked up his first win on the mound since August of 2019. Throwing six solid innings of relief while striking out nine.

Jamestown, ND- The Miller Lite Merchants took part in the Jack Brown Stadium Invitational this past weekend and came away with a 1-2 record.

Behind solid defense and pitching the Merchants played three closely contested ballgames this weekend. In their opener on Sunday against Tolna, the Trojans were able to sneak across a single run in the 4th to ruin a gem of an outing by starting pitcher John Eckstein.

The M’s were shutout and managed only four hits with only one runner reaching second base in the 1-0 loss.

In game two against the Jamestown Greyhounds, the M’s once again managed only four hits.

The Greyhounds jumped on Merchant starter Brandon Baumgartner right away in the first with a two-run homer.

The Merchants only run and lone bright spot at the plate on Sunday was Preston Jensen’s 4th inning solo home run to make it a 3-1 ballgame.

However, the Greyhounds extended their lead in the fifth with a couple two-out RBI’s to make it a 5-1 final score.

On Monday, the Merchants finally broke through. After being no-hit through the first three innings by the Jamestown Brewers starter the Merchant bats exploded for 5 runs on 5 hits.

That was plenty of runs for Merchant starter Garrett Hodenfield and he threw six solid innings on the mound to collect his first career Merchant win.

The Merchants (3-2) will be back in action on Wednesday against the Moorhead Mudcats. First pitch 7:00pm at Helling Field.

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants snuck by the Cass County Catfish 4-2 on a chilly Wednesday Night at Helling Field.

The low scoring affair was highlighted by some outstanding defensive plays.

“I haven’t seen us play defense this good since the early 2000’s”, stated Hall of Fame pitcher Greg Lunski.

A trio of Merchant pitchers limited the Catfish to only four hits with John Eckstein picking up his second win of the season. Brandon Baumgartner threw three scoreless innings to shut the door on the Catfish to pick up his first save of the season.

At the plate the Merchants were once again led by newcomers Jesse Munsterman and Tommy Linn who each collected two hits and combined for all three of the Merchant RBI’s.

Bryan Erstad and Dan Ross also added two hits each as the Merchants collected 11 hits in total.

The Merchants will be back in action this Memorial Day weekend for the Jack Brown Stadium Invitational Tournament beginning Sunday morning at 9:00am vs. Tolna.

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants opened their 2021 season with a 7-2 victory over the Fargo Mets Wednesday night at Helling Field.

Under windy conditions, the Merchants pounded out 12 hits highlighted by newcomers Zach Kluvers, Jesse Munsterman and Tommy Linn who combined to collect 7 of them.

After trading runs in the first inning, the Mets and Merchants stayed scoreless until the M’s erupted for 6 runs on 4 hits in the top half of the fifth inning. After that it was full on coast mode for the Merchants.

John Eckstein and Brandon Baumgartner provided 7 innings of scoreless relief for opener and 2021 North Dakota Amateur Baseball Hall of Famer Greg Lunski.

Eckstein (1-0) picked up his first win of the season throwing four hitless innings.

The Merchants are back in action next Wednesday night against the Cass County Catfish, first pitch 7:02pm.

Notes: The Merchants move to 9-0 in the all-time series against the Fargo Mets.

The Merchants went 1-1 at the AAA NDAB State baseball tournament held this weekend in Jamestown.  After a thrilling 6-2 come from behind win against the Valley City Saints in game one, they lost to the Jamestown Greyhounds 8-2 to be eliminated from pool play and the tournament.

Greg Lunski spun a gem on the hill on Friday night vs. VC, and Andrew Hill provided the power with a 3 run bomb over the ivy in right field to put the Merchants comfortably up 6-2 in the 7th.

On Saturday, the Hounds jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning and the M's were playing catch up the rest of the way.  They got to within 3-2 with a 2 run homer from Bryan Erstad in the 5th, but the Hounds answered with four in the 6th to lengthen the lead.  8-2 was the final with Baumy going six innings and Keaton Cederstrom allowing one run in the 7th.

The Merchants finish the season at 7-7 on the year.  it was an all around average year but one they are glad to have played given the pandemic circumstances.  They will look to get things going again next year and rebound with another championship season.  Have a safe and healthy offseason!

Big thanks to our 2020 sponsors, Beverage Wholesalers and Buffalo Wilds Wings, much appreciated!

The Merchants were firing on all cylinders as they closed out the regular season with a 12-2 win over the Moorhead Miners.  Pounding out 15 hits while stifling the Miners bats to only three hits proved to be the difference on the beautiful summer night at Starion Field.

That puts the Merchants at 6-6 on the year and ready to roll for the ND AAA state tournament, August 21-23 at Jack Brown Stadium in Jamestown.  The tournament will consist of two pools of three teams vying for the title.  The Merchants start off against the Valley City Saints at 7:30 pm on Friday the 21st, and then get the Jamestown Hounds at 4:00 pm on Saturday.  The winner of each pool will play for the title on Sunday at 1:00 pm.

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants are now 4-3 on the season after a pair of victories over the Fargo Mets coupled with a thrilling extra inning loss to the Mayville Redcaps in Fargo League play.

In their first matchup against the Fargo Mets on June 17, the Merchants jumped all over the Mets early getting out to 8-2 lead after 4. Highlighted by a Bryan Erstad laser double off the centerfield fence.

Erstad collect three hits for the M’s and Dan Ross added two hits in his season debut after his extended deck building absence.

On the mound, Greg Lunski picked up his 72nd career Merchant win tossing three innings of one run ball.

On June 24, the Merchants were upended by the Mayville Redcaps in 11 innings. This back and forth affair saw something that hadn’t happened in 2,523 days, a Preston Jensen homer run. The Jensen homer followed by a Bryan Erstad homer tied the game up at four after five innings.

The Merchants finally took the lead after scoring a run in the bottom of the 8th on a Beau Brunsvold triple. However, the Redcaps down to their final strike in the 9th got a single by Danny Scholand to tie the game up and send it to extras.

After both teams were scoreless in the 10th, the Redcaps plated two runs against Merchant reliever Brandon Baumgartner and then sent the M’s down in order to win 7-5.

“I need two weeks off.” Baumgartner was quoted saying as he headed to the parking lot.

Well Baumgartner got his wish; the Merchants had the following week off and resumed play two weeks later on July 8 against the Fargo Mets once again.

This time it was the Dan Ross show, as he connected for two three-run homers.

“Looks like I’ll need to have a Red Bull and a footlong Spicy Italian sub from Subway before every game now,” boasted Dan as he came back in from his curtain in front of the 24 fans in attendance that night.

The M’s jumped all over the Mets starter and after a pair of three-run homers by Ross and Bryan Erstad, it was 11-3 Merchants after three frames.

The game was still 11-3 until the 8th when Ross hit his second three-run homer into the night sky. After a scoreless bottom half of the inning the Merchants won via the 10-run rule, 14-3.

Greg Lunski picked up another win on the mound to move to 2-0 on the season.

The Miller Lite Merchants are back at next Wednesday to take on the Moorhead Mudcats at Helling Field. First Pitch 7:02 PM, Greg Lunski will most likely get the start.

Note: Congratulations to Merchant pitcher John Eckstein as he ties the knot this weekend.

Looking to exact revenge from the Enderlin tournament, the Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants came up a little short against the Moorhead Mudcats. 

It's June and the Merchants are locked and loaded, ready to roll, and raring to get 9 guys to each game this year.  The season will kick off on June 5th at the world famous Enderlin tournament at Hendrickson Field.  First game is Friday night at 8:30 pm vs. the Mudcats.  The tournament will continue on Saturday and Sunday with the Merchants hoping to play to the best of their (limited) abilities and come out triumphantly (unhurt).

From there, the Merchants have a jam packed slate of Wednesday night games at the historic and beautiful Tharaldson complex in Fargo, Helling Field (Old No Name).  There have been stringent COVID-19 guidelines put in place to keep the players, umpires, fans (several), healthy throughout the season.

The season will wrap up with the AAA North Dakota Amateur Baseball tournament held in Jamestown, August 14-16. 

We want to give a big thanks to our sponsors, Miller Lite and Buffalo Wild Wings, that will help to make this season a success.  

Aug. 17

G1: Jamestown Elks 2, Mayville Redcaps 1.

G2: Jamestown Tarnos 9, Jamestown Merchants 8.

G3: Jamestown Merchants 7, Mayville Redcaps 4.

G4: Jamestown Elks 9, Jamestown Tarnos 0

Aug. 18

G5: Jamestown Merchants 4, Jamestown Tarnos 1.

Championship: Jamestown Elks 10, Jamestown Merchants 1.

Written By: Michael Savaloja | Jamestown Sun

The Merchants earned revenge over the Jamestown Tarno Townies prior to the title game in loser-out play. The Merchants topped the Townies 4-1 after the Townies opened its tournament on Saturday with a 9-8 victory against the Merchants.

The Merchants' Jared Meiklejohn came through with a clutch, two-out hit with the bases loaded in the bottom of the third. Meiklejohn lifted a lazy fly ball to center on an 0-2 count that was in and out of the glove of a diving Connor Hoyt in center field. Two runs scored on the play, handing the Merchants a 2-1 lead.

The Merchants tacked on two more runs in the fifth. Kyle Leapaldt shouldered the loss for the Townies, whose roster included Post 14 players Dawson Douty, Chris Erickson, Tommy Falk, Aaron Kleven, Drew Murray and Hoyt.

Newcomer and LaMoure product, Kenny Hodem had a huge day at the plate leading the way going 3 for 4 with a double and a RBI.  Coincidentally, those were Kenny's first three hits of the season.  When asked about his recent surge Kenny stated, "You ain't seen nothing yet.  Back in LaMoure I'd do this all the time then head on over to the Dairy Bar for an ice cream snack."  Kenny is also decently happy with the post-game parking lot Beasts now.

New leadoff hitter and former UND pitching standout, Brandon Baumgartner, also had a big day at the plate with two knocks, two runs, and a RBI.  When asked about his performance Brandon stated, "I'm so mad UND dropped their baseball program.  Do you realize our latest recruits all went on to top D1 and big league programs?  UND and their F'in Hawks nickname is so dumb now.  That's why I now work for the NDSU booster club."  Geez, Baumy, get over it man...

This marks the Merchants first ever win over VCSU as it is their inaugural season.  When current VCSU coach, Casey Olney learned the news he said, "you lost to who?"  He was then informed he has actually played for the Merchants before and he still holds the title of "Worst late night campfire joke teller" in the history of the Merchants.

There are only a handful of Merchant Wednesday's left.  Grab your kids and come on down to the New Helling Field (Old No Name) and watch the action, or lack thereof. We're not as good as we once were, but we're as good once, for like one inning.

By Merchant beat writer, Billy Bumbomber:

The Merchants are back in action for their 31st season! The back-to-back North Dakota AAA State Champions have stumbled out of the gate but are looking for their 3rd straight State title. The Merchants currently have five players with three or more years of service time on the roster and a whole bunch of first and second year players that are still working to play together.

“We're excited for the new season as it's great to see all the new young talent the Merchants have acquired.  We have had a lot of departures over the past few years, from guys retiring, getting injured or just moving away, we’ve seen over 10 regulars end their Merchant careers over the last 2+ years,” stated player coach Bryan Erstad.

With the player departures over the years the Merchants are still looking to find their groove.

“We are just hitting our stride, come July we will be firing on all cylinders,” says Merchant veteran “Doppler” Dan Ross.

This season's rigorous 16 game schedule started off on a note with a win against the FM Mets and a sixth place finish in the Enderlin Tournament.

The M’s then had a sloppy game against the Mudcats last Wednesday making nine errors but against those same Mudcats this Wednesday, the Merchants had a much better day in the field. However, at the plate the Merchants struggled, striking out 13 times, while only scoring one run as they lost 7-1.

“Putting the ball in play would be helpful,” says two hole hitter Brandon Baumgartner who struck out three times.

We did however have a quest appearance from Merchant legend Luke Anderson. Luke was a member of the Merchants during their 2013 title run and former Merchant 40 oz. record holder, and knocked in the only run for the M’s with an RBI single in the third.

“Nothing like a cold Beast after a Merchant game,” chimed in Luke, as he also asked if he could try to break the Merchant 40 record again.

The new look Merchants will look to get back on track next Wednesday against the Mayville Redcaps.

SCHEDULE UPDATE: The Merchants will not be travelling to the Jamestown Tournament this weekend. Please plan accordingly, cancel your hotel rooms, alert your friends and family, and drive home safely.
 

The Merchants have crawled out to a 2-4 start.  With many new faces and heavy turnover from previous years, the Merchants are re-identifying themselves.  With a solid 6th place finish in the Enderlin tournament a couple weeks ago the Merchants are sliding into regular Wednesday action at Tharaldson in Fargo.  A Jamestown tournament in a week and a half is looming and the M's will need to dig into their recruiting bag of tricks to pull it off.  Time will tell but we do know, as player/manager Bryan Erstad said before the first game of the year, "the more things change the more they stay the same."  That prompted Baumy to say, "what the hell does that mean?"  "I don't know but it seemed like a good thing to say," replied Erstad.  The Merchants, are still trying to figure that out...

We'll move it back a week to next Wednesday vs. the Fargo Mets.

Merchants repeat as 'AAA' state champs

By Mitchell Johnson on Aug 29, 2018 at 11:47 p.m.

Jared Purdy (31) is congratulated by Bryan Erstad after hitting a homerun Wednesday at Jack Brown Stadium. John M. Steiner / The Sun

Brandon Baumgartner delivers a pitch Wednesday for the Merchants at Jack Brown Stadium in Jamestown. John M. Steiner / The Sun2 / 2

The Merchants went 1-1 on the first day of the ND State Amateur baseball tournament in Jamestown.  They rallied for a 2-1 win over Mayville then dropped a game 6-1 to the Elks.  That put them in the semi-finals versus the Elks on Sunday but the rains came and the field was a lake.  The final day has been postponed twice, Sunday, Aug. 26th was also rained out so the championship will be played on Wednesday, Aug. 29th, Merchants vs. Mayville.

The Merchants battled the elements on their smelly, hot, and fly infested bus and were able to sneak out a 3-2 win at Enderlin.  Brady Anderson provided the offensive power with a center field Enderlin homer.  Anthony Fontana spun another masterful Enderlin gem going all 9 innings, 12 K's one earned run, to get the win.

Jamestown Sun Staff -

Jake Stilwell delivered the walk-off RBI in the bottom of the ninth to give the Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants a 4-3 victory over the Elks Wednesday night in Fargo.

By Merchants beat writer, Billy Bumbomber

Fargo, ND – Greg Lunski and Steve Hirchert combined to strike out 16 batters as the Merchants overcame leaving 14 runners on base to beat the Moorhead Mudcats 4-1 at No Name Field on Wednesday.

“That was most I’ve pitched in two years,” stated Steve. “I should be ready to go again by August.”

Hirchert completed his longest outing for the Merchants since his complete game against Detroit Lakes on June 4^th, 2016.

Steve fanned 10 Mudcats in five innings of work while only allowing two hits to pick up his first save of the season.

Lunski started for the M’s and allowed one run while striking out six in four innings for his second win of the season and his 67 of his career.

The M’s managed to score four runs even though they stranded a small village on the base paths and had runners left on base in every inning except one.

The M’s were paced by their leadoff hitter Andrew Hill, Hill reached base in all five plate appearances collecting three walks and two hit by pitches. Bryan Erstad continued his hot hitting Wednesday night even though he didn’t hit a home run for only the third time this season. Erstad went 3-5 at the plate to increase his team leading batting average to .581.

The Miller Lite Merchants will take the weekend off before they take on the Moorhead Brewers next Wednesday at No Name Field.

By Merchants beat writer, Billy Bumbomber

Fargo, ND - For the third time in four games the Merchants only manage to have nine players show up to the ballpark. 

“It has been a pretty poor showing so far this year, but I suppose that’s what happens when you lose five regulars from last year’s state championship team,” stated Wednesday’s starting pitcher Brandon Baumgartner.

The first two times the Merchants only had nine players they won, however, tonight would not produce the same result. 

The Mayville Redcaps brought half the town of Mayville to Fargo and scored all eight of their runs with two outs to beat the M’s 8-5.

Baumgartner struggled to get out of innings on the mound, highlighted by Mayville’s three runs on five straight hits with two outs in the sixth to break open a 3-2 game at the time. 

The M’s got two back in the bottom of the sixth to make it a 6-4 game but Mayville tacked on two more runs off Merchant reliever Preston Jensen with a two out, two run homer in the eighth. 

The Merchants scored one in the bottom of the 9th but that was it. Bryan Erstad continued to demolish the ball at the plate collecting two hits including his team leading fourth home run of the season. Andrew Hill and Beau Brunsvold each added two hits.

The M’s (4-2) will take on the Moorhead Mudcats Wednesday at No Name Name Field.

By Merchants beat writer, Billy Bumbomber

Enderlin, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants saw their four game winning streak end Sunday afternoon in the title game of the Josh Berg Memorial Tournament in Enderlin.

The Merchants were defeated by the Jamestown Greyhounds by the score of 6-2, as the Greyhounds took home the title. The Hounds were able to put up four runs in the first two innings against Merchant starter Sam Hirchert. While the M’s were unable to score with the bases loaded and no outs in the bottom of the first inning. The Merchants got two back in the bottom of the second to make it 4-2 but that was as close as they would get.

“I didn’t waste a weekend in Enderlin to take second place, stated an irritated Jared Purdy after Sunday’s game.”

Greg Lunski threw four effective innings out of the bullpen, while Brady Anderson and Bryan Erstad each picked up two hits in the loss.

In the tournament opener on Friday night, Brandon Baumgartner made history by launching his first ever homerun, at any level, into the centerfield bleachers at Hendrickson Field. Baumgartner’s three-run homer broke open a 1-1 game in the bottom of the fourth.

Brady Anderson homered twice while the Merchants beat the Valley City Saints 8-1 to advance to the semifinals.

On the mound, Baumgartner carried a no-hitter into the sixth before giving up a two out double. Valley City hit a solo homer in the seventh to end the shutout. Baumgartner struck out 11 Saints to cap off his historic night.

On Saturday, Dan Ross was lights out against Tolna. Ross pitched around five Merchant errors to only allow one hit and one unearned run in six innings of work.

Andrew Hill was a home run short of the cycle and Bryan Erstad hit his team leading third home run of the season as the Merchants pounded out 11 hits to beat Tolna 10-1.

The M’s will head back to Fargo to take on the Mayville Redcaps this Wednesday at No Name Field. First pitch is scheduled for 7:03 PM.

Fargo, ND- Three innings down, 72 more to go for Steve Hirchert in his quest for 75 innings this season. After throwing a combined 20 innings in the past three years, Steve is guaranteeing at least 75 this summer.

“I’ve quit softball and I’m all in this season, except for every other Wednesday and most weekends,” stated Steve.

Steve started his pursuit with three dominate innings of relief, striking out eight to pick up the save in the Merchants 10-4 victory over the FM Mets Wednesday night at No Name Field.

The Mets came out swinging in the first, plating two runs against Merchant starter Greg Lunski. However, the Merchant bats erupted for seven runs in the second highlighted by Bryan Erstad’s two run homer off the curling club in right field.

The Mets scored two unearned runs off of Lunski in the 4^th but after that they managed only one hit the rest of the way against Merchant relievers Brandon Baumgartner and Hirchert. Baumgartner and Hirchert managed to strikeout 12 Mets in five scoreless innings of relief.

The M’s were able to tack on a few insurance runs in the 7^th and 8^th innings to stretch their lead to the final score of 10-4.

The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants will head to Enderlin this weekend to play in the Annual Josh Berg Memorial Tournament. First game is scheduled for 8:30 PM Friday night against the Valley City Saints.

Steve Hirchert on inning three of his "Quest for 75."

Fargo, ND – The nine month offseason didn’t slow down the reigning AAA MVP Bryan Erstad, Erstad picked up right where he left off last season by leading the Merchants to a come from behind victory Wednesday night over the Moorhead Miners. 

“Thunder Road has pretty much been my second home this offseason, stated Erstad. I’ve really worked hard on trying to increase my launch angle, so far, so good.” 

Erstad capped his four hit day by hitting a majestic walk-off two run home run into the night sky. The homer gave the Merchants a 12-11 victory in a back and forth game that saw the lead change seven times. 

The M’s pounded out 16 hits in all. Andrew Hill’s solo blast in the fifth might have put a hole in the FM Curling Club building out in right field. Statcast’s estimated exit velocity on the homerun was 93.8 mph.   

Jake Stillwell threw a scoreless ninth for the M’s to pick up his first career win. He also added two hits at the plate. 

The Miller Lite Merchants will take the Memorial Day weekend off before they get back in action next Wednesday against the FM Mets. First pitch is scheduled for 7:02 PM. The first fan in attendance will receive a free Beast in the parking lot after the game. 

By Dave Selvig on Aug 22, 2017 

It's been rare lately where the three amateur baseball state champions come from different communities.

Bryan Erstad turning on the jets.

Tony Viger getting congratulated after a bomb versus Mayville.

Sam Hirchert delivering a pitch to the Elks in the championship game.

Photos by John M. Steiner, Jamestown Sun

By David Selvig, Jamestown Sun.  August 21st, 2017.  Jamestown, ND

Sam Hirchert logged almost 11 innings on the mound Sunday at Jack Brown Stadium.

Fargo, ND – The Miller Lite Merchants ended the regular season with a 1-0 loss to the Moorhead Brewers Tuesday night at Jack Williams Stadium.

The M’s managed only three hits all night.

“It was a rough night at the plate, hopefully the bats wake up for this weekend, stated Doppler Dan Ross.

Ross was a part of one the Merchants few scoring opportunities, as he was thrown out at home plate trying to score from first base on Turner Storms double in the second inning.

The M’s other scoring opportunity came in the fifth as the Brewers walked the bases loaded but J-Rod Purdy grounded out to third to end the threat.

Doppler took the loss on the mound throwing four innings of solid relief while giving up a run in the bottom of the fifth.

The Miller Lite Merchants finished the regular season with a 20-7 record.

This weekend the Merchants will take part in the North Dakota Amateur Baseball State AAA Tournament at Jack Brown Stadium in Jamestown, ND.

Enderlin, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants bounced back from two defeats earlier in the week, defeating the Enderlin Indies 10-0 Friday night at Hendrickson Field.

The Merchants jumped on the Indies starter right away scoring two in the first and three in the second highlighted by Dakotah Kirchenwitz’s first ever Merchant home run.

“My swing was a little off earlier this week, so I went to the cage in Horace and straightened my swing out,” said Dakotah. “Sure enough, it paid off.”

Every Merchant had a hit except for J-Rod Purdy who went hitless in his four trips to the plate.

On the mound, the Merchants struck out 16 Indies, led by starter Brandon Baumgartner who fanned nine while picking up his sixth win of the summer. Turner Storm and Tony Viger combined to throw three innings of scoreless relief.

The Merchants tacked on five more runs to end the game after eight innings via the ten-run rule.

Afterwards, the Merchants took their third annual party bus back home to Fargo. Somehow between Enderlin and Fargo Tony Viger managed to lose both of his Merchant hats. The whereabouts of the hats are still unknown.

The M’s wrap up their final night of Fargo League play this Wednesday at No Name Field against the Redcaps of Mayville. First pitch is scheduled for 7:00 PM

Note: The Mayor of Enderlin, Jeff Nold had one hit in his return. He is still undecided if he will run for another year of office next season.   

Fargo, ND – Tony Viger put on a show for his parents Wednesday night at No Name Field. Viger blasted two home runs to help the Merchants beat the Cass County Catfish 13-0.

“This was the only game my parents could come to all year, I made sure it counted,” says Tony. “I even went to the gym before the game so I could be a little more jacked up.”

Viger and the Merchants clobbered the Catfish pitching all night. Collecting 13 hits, including home runs by Dan Ross and Steve Hirchert.

On the mound, Greg Lunski picked up his fourth win of the season and his 65th of his Merchant career, allowing one hit in three innings of work.

“I think I have another eight years left in me to get to 1,000 innings, that’s my goal,” stated Lunski while he struggled yet again to finish off a snack size order of wings at Buffalo Wild Wings, who are an official sponsor of Merchant baseball.

Anthony Fontana had two hit and three RBIs for the M’s as he improved his batting average to a career best .371.

The Merchants (19-4) will take on the Moorhead Brewers Sunday night at 5:00pm at Concordia. Please note, Sunday’s game was moved back one hour so Baumy can get an extra hour of sleep on Sunday morning. 

Fargo, ND – Greg Lunski was outstanding on the mound for the Merchants Wednesday night at No Name Field as the M’s beat the Mayville Redcaps 4-1.

Lunski gave the M’s seven solid innings, allowing only one run, and striking out five to improve to 3-0 on the year. 

“I had almost a month off from pitching so the arm felt great tonight,” stated Lunski as he struggled to finish his snack size order of wings at Buffalo Wild Wings later that night. 

“Doppler” Dan Ross pitched the last two innings for the M’s to collect his first career Merchant save.

At the plate, the Merchants only had five hits, Jared J-Rod Purdy collected the only RBI for the M’s with a double in the three run sixth inning that gave the Merchants a 4-0 lead. 

The Redcaps scored their lone run off Lunski in the seventh but Ross blanked Mayville in the eighth and ninth to improve the M’s record to 18-4.

The Miller Lite Merchants have the weekend off before they get back in action against the Cass County Catfish next Wednesday at No Name Field. 

Schedule Update: Our game scheduled against Enderlin for this upcoming Friday has been cancelled with no make-up date announced. 

Jamestown, ND – The Miller Lite Merchants put it in cruise control on Sunday evening at Jack Brown Stadium beating the Valley City Saints 4-1.

The Merchants jumped on the Saints early, scoring one run in the first and three more in the second to take a 4-0 lead. 

After that, Saints starter Chase Carpenter shut down the Merchants the rest of the day giving up only three hits in his last six innings of work.

“After the second inning, there was a country club like atmosphere to the game, we took our foot off the gas and relaxed. Luckily Baumy kept throwing up zeros.” stated Turner Storm as he was too busy hurrying home to watch Game of Thrones to grab his glove and batting gloves from the dugout. 

Brandon Baumgartner went the distance for the M’s in this pitcher’s duel, giving up only one run. Baumgartner struck out eight Saints in route to his fifth win of the summer.  

Andrew Hill, Bryan Erstad and Joe Vannett each had two hits for the Merchants who had seven in all.

The Miller Lite Merchants (17-4) will take on the Mayville Redcaps Wednesday at No Name Field. The first fan in attendance will get a free Beast courtesy of Miller Lite. 

Notes: Baumgartner collected his 300th career Merchant strikeout in the first inning. Tony Viger had his team leading seven game hit strike snapped. 

Fargo, ND – After a 2-1 record and another second place finish over the weekend, this time at the "Gopher" Memorial tournament in Jamestown, the Miller Lite Merchants got back in the win column Wednesday at No Name Field with a 12-0 beat down of the FM Mets.

The Merchant scoring was highlighted by a six-run third inning that was capped off by a two-out bases clearing single by “Doppler” Dan Ross.

Jamestown Merchant starter Brandon Baumgartner was sharp on the mound after almost a month off. Baumgartner fired six innings of one-hit baseball to pick up his fourth win of the summer.

After the Merchants scored two more in the fourth, they tacked on four in the top of the seventh to make the score 12-0. Ross pitched the seventh for the M’s and shut the door to end the game via the ten-run rule.

The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants will host the Valley City Saints this Sunday at Jack Brown Stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 4:00 PM. The first five fans in attendance will get a leftover can koozie from this weekend’s Hirchert wedding.

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants came away with a walk-off victory over the Moorhead Brewers Wednesday night at No Name Field.

The Merchants held three different one run leads throughout the game. The scoring started in the first when Tony Viger doubled home Dakotah Kirchenwitz to give the Merchants a 1-0 lead.

After the Brewers tied things up in the second off starter Sam Hirchert, Anthony Fontana singled home Jared “J-Rod” Purdy in the fourth inning to put the M’s back up.

The Brewers would again tie things up in the fifth, however, the Merchants answered right back in the sixth when Bryan Erstad singled home Kirchenwitz for one of his three hits on the day.

Hirchert battled all night for the M’s on the mound throwing all nine innings.

“All I need was two Beast’s and five Advil’s and I was ready to go on the mound tonight,” stated Sam as he enjoyed his first victory against the Brewers since 2013.

Sam battled through some early inning walks but was lights out from the sixth inning on.

After retiring the first two Brewers in the ninth, Sam and the Merchants were one out away from ending the game. However, a two-out triple followed by an RBI-single tied the game up at three.

In the bottom of the ninth, Andrew Hill led off with a walk. The next two batters moved Hill to third and allowed Kirchenwitz to deliver a walk-off single to right field to give the M’s a 4-3 victory.

“I was just looking to drive the ball hard and score the run, all the extra tee work at the Horace cage has really paid off for me this season,” said Kirchenwitz as he sipped on a lemonade after the game.

Every Merchant starter had a hit as the M’s pounded out 16 hits in all.

Sam moves to (4-0) on the year, he also collected nine strike outs on the mound.

The Miller Lite Merchants (13-3) look to win their third straight Dale “Gopher” Lien Memorial Baseball Tournament sponsored by Shady’s Bar this weekend.

Dale “Gopher” Lien Memorial Baseball Tournament Schedule

Saturday - July 8th

11:00 am – Elks vs. Cass County Catfish
1:15 pm – Cass County Catfish vs. Merchants
3:30 pm – Mayville vs. Merchants
5:45 pm – Elks vs. Mayville

Sunday – July 9th

11:00 am – Catfish vs. Mayville

1:15 pm – Elks vs. Merchants

 Fargo, ND – New jersey’s and the sound of Fergie in the background couldn’t even distract the Merchants Wednesday night as they dominated the Mayville Redcaps 11-1 in Fargo League play.

The Merchants pounded out 14 hits, highlighted by an eighth inning grand slam by Tony Viger to put the M’s up 10-1.

Dakotah Kirchenwitz continued his hot streak at the plate collecting three hits from the leadoff spot. Viger, Bryan Erstad and Joe Vannett each had two hits for the Merchants.

Greg Lunski picked up his second win of the year for the Merchants throwing four scoreless innings.

The Merchants have the weekend off before they take on the Cass County Catfish next Wednesday. First pitch scheduled for 6:59 PM.

Fargo, ND – The trio of Sam Hirchert, Greg Lunski and Steve Hirchert were dominant on the mound Wednesday night as the Miller Lite Merchants blanked the Jamestown Elks 3-0 at No Name Field.

Sam Hirchert started the game for the M’s and fired six shutout innings to move to (3-0) on the season. Lunski added two scoreless innings, while Steve Hirchert pitched a scoreless ninth to pick up his second save of the season.

The Merchants scored all three runs in third after they loaded the bases with no outs. A hit by pitch, RBI groundout and wild pitch brought home the only runs of the game.

Preston Jensen and Anthony Fontana each had two hits for the M’s while Tony Viger had the only extra base hit for Merchants with a double in the seventh.

The Miller Lite Merchants will bring their “Fighting Nine” to Aberdeen, South Dakota this weekend for the Aberdeen Invitational.

Aberdeen Invitational Schedule

Saturday, June 17

Merchants vs. Groton, SD – 3:00 PM

Merchants vs. Aberdeen, SD – 5:00 PM
 

Sunday, June 18

Merchants vs. Redfield, SD – 11:00 AM

Fargo, ND – The Miller Lite Merchants beat the Mayville Redcaps on Wednesday night at No Name Field coming away with a hard fought 4-3 victory.

The Merchants got on the board right away scoring two in the first to give starter Greg Lunski a lead.

Mayville got on the board in the third after the Merchants booted the ball around a couple of times. However, Brandon Baumgartner got that run right back for the Merchants in the fourth with an RBI double.  

Lunski gave another run back to the Redcaps in the fifth but was solid on the mound in his five innings of work only giving up one earned run.

The scored stayed 3-2 until the eighth, when Mayville loaded the bases with no outs against Brandon Baumgartner who was relieving Lunski.  Baumgartner managed to get out of the jam limiting the Redcaps to only one run.

The M’s answered right back to break the tie with a “Merchant Run” in the eighth as Dakotah Kirchenwitz scored on a wild pitch.

The Redcaps tried to make things interesting in the ninth as they had two runners on but Baumgartner got Mayville cleanup hitter Mickey Berry to ground out back to the mound to end the game.

The Merchants are now (8-2) on the season and will take the weekend off before they play the Jamestown Elks next Wednesday at No Name Field.

Notes: Dakotah Kirchenwitz collected his 9^th hit of the season, which surpasses his total from the entire 2016 season.

Detroit Lakes, MN – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants went 2-1 this past weekend to take home third-place in this year’s Detroit Lakes Angels Invitational.

The Merchants started the weekend off with a first round win over the Richmond Royals. Greg Lunski, Turner Storm, and Steve Hirchert fired a combined 1-hitter to open the tournament.  Steve Hirchert shut the door in the seventh to get his first save of the season as the Merchants held on for a 2-1 victory.

In his only at bat of the game, Bryan Erstad hit a solo home run in the bottom half of the first to tie the game at one. Tony Viger brought home the winning run with an RBI single in the fourth.

On Saturday, the semi-finals had the Merchants square off against the hometown Angels.

Merchant starter Brandon Baumgartner gave the Merchants an average outing on the mound, he allowed unearned runs in the first and third innings to give the Angels a 2-0 lead through four innings.

The Merchant bats started to shake off the Zorbaz/Wildflower golf rust in the fifth as they scored two runs to tie the game up. However, Baumgartner would give the lead right back to Detroit Lakes in the bottom half of the fifth as he served up a solo home run, that would end up being the difference as the M’s lost 3-2.

Tony Viger and Andrew “Puke” Hill each had two hits for the Merchants in the loss.

In the third-place game, the Merchants faced off against the Jamestown Elks. Seven strong innings by Sam Hirchert were enough to give the Merchants a 5-2 victory.

The Merchant offense still wasn’t quite firing on all cylinders. However, the Elks kicked the ball around just enough as the Merchants scored three of their five runs on wild pitches and another on an error.

The Miller Lite Merchants (7-2) are back in action this Wednesday against the Mayville Redcaps at No Name Field. First pitch is scheduled for 7:11 PM. The first fan in attendance gets a free Slurpee courtesy of 7-Eleven.

Fargo, ND - Five Merchant pitchers combined to no-hit the Cass County Catfish Wednesday night as the M’s thumped the Catfish 16-0 in seven innings.

Brandon Baumgartner got the win for the Merchants throwing three hitless innings. Greg Lunski, Jameson Benson, Tony Viger and Steve Hirchert each threw a hitless inning to complete the no-hitter.

This was the first Merchant no-hitter since the legendary “O-Face” game by Greg Lunski in the 2014 state tournament.

The Miller Lite Merchants were paced at the plate by Andrew Hill, Tony Viger and Turner Storm who each had multi-hit games. Hill and Storm both had RBI triples, while Viger blasted his first career Merchant homerun off a light post in left center.

Dakotah Kirchenwitz continued his #ComebackSZN by collecting two hits, he has now equaled his total number of hits from all last season.

The Merchants are now (5-1) on the season and will head to the Detroit Lakes Angels Invitational this weekend. The first game of the invite takes place Friday night at 8:15 pm against the Richmond Royals. Greg Lunski will toe the rubber for the M’s.

Fargo, ND – The Miller Lite Merchants walked off via the ten-run rule on Wednesday night at No Name Field against the FM Mets.

The Merchants were led by Preston Jensen who reached base four times and collected three hits.

“I was nervous when I showed up 90 minutes before game time and ten Mets players were hitting whiffle balls behind the backstop,” said Jensen. “Somehow, our pitchers were still able to limit them to only three hits.”

The game was tight in the early going until the M’s scored four runs in the bottom of the fourth inning to give themselves a 6-1 lead. Single runs in the fifth and sixth along with three in the seventh led to the Merchants 11-1 victory.

Sam Hirchert got the win on the mound throwing five innings while only giving up one run.

Andrew Hill, Bryan Erstad and Anthony Fontana also had multi-hit games for the M’s who move to (4-1) on the season.

The Merchants are off this weekend and will be back in action next Wednesday against the Cass County Catfish. First pitch is scheduled for 7:01 PM.

Fargo, ND – For the third straight time, the Miller Lite Merchants came away with a second-place finish at the Moorhead Brewers Invite.

“You guys stink,” said bat boy Blake Erstad following the Merchants loss to the Moorhead Brewers on Sunday in the title game. The Brewers defeated the Merchants 7-5 to win their second consecutive tournament title.

The Merchants jumped out early on Brewer pitcher Kyle Kingsley, putting up four in the first, highlighted by a two RBI single by Dan Ross. Brady Anderson tacked on a solo homer to right field to give the Merchants 5-0 lead heading to the bottom of the second.

However, things quickly went south for starting pitcher Turner Storm. After two quick doubles got the Brewers on board, Storm looked like he was going to get out of the inning allowing only one run but the Brewers had other plans.

Moorhead started a two-out rally with a walk and a hit by pitch and then followed that up with five consecutive base hits.

“Boy did they p%ss on the ball that inning, said Storm as he chatted up with pitching coach Jeff Nold after the game.

In all, the Brewers put up seven runs in the bottom of the second and that was all they needed as the Merchants meager offense could not score the rest of the game.

The Merchants advanced to the title by winning their two opening round games against the Pelican Rapids Lakers and the Dilworth Raildogs.

In Friday night’s opener against Pelican Rapids, the Merchants spotted starter Brandon Baumgartner nine runs in the first inning. Baumgartner was good enough to get through five and get his first win of the season as the Merchants won 9-2.

Dakotah Kirchenwitz, who is no longer “lost in the sauce,” continued to crush the ball at the plate, leading the Merchants with three hits against the Lakers.

On Saturday, the Merchants walked off again against the Raildogs. Brady Anderson provided a gutsy effort on the mound throwing both left and right handed in relief of the injured starter Greg Lunski.

Bryan Erstad won the game for the Merchants when he smacked a double into the right center gap to score Preston Jensen in the bottom of the seventh to give the Merchants a 4-3 victory.

The Miller Lite Merchants (3-1) are back in action on Wednesday at No Name Field against the FM Mets. First pitch is scheduled for 7:02 PM.

Notes: Before losing the past two Brewers Invite title games to the Moorhead Brewers, the Merchants lost to the Champlin LoGators in the 2014. The 2015 tournament was rained out. Steve Hirchert’s x-ray on his right hand was negative, he has been placed on the 10-Day DL retroactive to May 18th.

Fargo, ND – Anthony Fontana scored the winning run on a passed ball in the bottom of the ninth as the Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants started the season off on the right foot with a 6-5 victory over the Dilworth Raildogs.

“I knew we needed a baserunner,” Fontana said. “ I was very patient at the plate and ended up drawing a walk.”

The Merchants were given a solid start by Sam Hirchert. Sam battled through four innings, only giving up three runs.

In the fifth, Bryan Erstad broke open a 3-3 ball game with a two RBI double up in the Jetstream over the centerfielder’s head.

However, the Raildogs got those two runs right back in the sixth. Cole Honl crushed a two-run homer off reliever Brandon Baumgartner to tie things up.

“I guess that’s what happens when you throw a fastball letters high, right down the middle of plate,” Baumgartner said.

Dan Ross and Jameson Benson combined to throw three innings of scoreless relief to keep the score tied until Fontana scampered home in the ninth following the Raildogs’ third passed ball of the inning.

In his debut, New Jersey native Alec Sames reached base four times and also collected his first career hit as a Merchant.

Also, out of his semi-retirement, Steve Hirchert played a beautiful shortstop turning two double plays and navigating the position flawlessly.  Unfortunately for Steve he was hit by a pitch in the hand.  The x-rays were negative, but the doc told him he’d be on the shelf for 7-10 days.  The Merchants thought that might have been the last they’d see of Steve this year, but he assured them he’d be back with a vengeance.

The Miller Lite Merchants (1-0) will take part in the Moorhead Brewers Tournament at Jack Williams Stadium this weekend.

Moorhead Brewers Tournament Schedule:

Friday, May 19 – Pelican Rapids Lakers – 8:15 PM
Saturday, May 20 – Dilworth Raildogs – 11:00 AM
Saturday, May 20 – Moorhead Brewers – 5:45 PM

By Merchants beat writer, Billy Bumbomber

Jamestown, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants will begin the 2017 season looking to rebound from last year’s disappointing third place finish in the North Dakota Class AAA State Tournament.

Bryan Erstad will be at the helm leading the Merchants yet again as they begin their quest for their 9^th AAA title. The Merchants 29-game schedule is highlighted by tournaments in Fargo, Detroit Lakes, Aberdeen, South Dakota, and Jamestown. The season will culminate at the newly renovated dugouts of Jack Brown Stadium in Jamestown, North Dakota on the weekend of August 18-20.

“We have another busy summer ahead of us, we already have 29 games scheduled with a few more that are in the works. I’m really hoping to test this team early and see what they are made of,” stated Erstad.

At the plate, the Merchants will have to look for someone to replace one of their top offense threats, Jared Meiklefish. Meiklefish led the Merchants in hitting last year and was consistent threat at the top of lineup.

“Losing Jared will hurt but I believe some of our older/new guys are ready to step up and take his place,” says Erstad.

The core of the Merchant lineup will return yet again with Erstad, Preston Jensen and Jared Purdy leading the charge. Those three all batted over .300 last year, with Erstad leading the way at .397.

On the mound, the Merchants have their top three pitchers back: Brandon Baumgartner, Greg Lunski and Sam Hirchert. Those three threw 66% of the innings last year for the Merchants.

“It’s going to be great to have those three back this year. You know they are going to give us a great outing night in and night out,” stated pitching coach and Mayor of Enderlin, Jeff Nold.

In addition to all the old guys, Merchant recruiting coordinator Brandon Baumgartner and his area scouts have been hot on the trail in the offseason looking for some new young talent. He feels he has three promising stars in Concordia standouts Jake Stilwell and Alec Sames along with Tony Viger who is coming off a professional season last year. 

While Stilwell is technically not a rookie he plans to play more than three games with the Merchants this year which will help tremendously. 

Sames is a catcher/utility player from New Jersey that has had a lifelong goal of playing for the Merchants. Welcome to the team, Alec.

Viger already has unrealistically high expectations set for him, but says he doesn’t mind.  All he knows how to do is play anywhere, drop bombs, then come in to close games down.

The Miller Lite Merchants begin the 2017 season on Wednesday, May 17 at No Name Field against the Dilworth Raildogs. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM, the first fan in attendance will get a Milwaukee’s Best Light courtesy of Miller Lite.

We would like to thank the following sponsors for their continued support of Merchant Baseball:  Miller Lite, Buffalo Wild Wings, Padgett Business Services, and Shady's Restaurant and Lounge.

By Merchants beat writer, Billy Bumbomber

Fargo, ND – After 11 straight defeats at the hands of the Moorhead Brewers, the Jamestown Miller Light Merchants finally broke through and defeated the Brewers 4-3 Sunday night at Jack Williams Stadium.

Early in the game it looked like the Brewers would extend their streak to 12. Merchant starter Brandon Baumgartner gave up a first inning two-run homer to Landon Uetz to put the M’s in an early hole.

“I thought here we go again”, stated Baumgartner who was 0-5 in his career against the Brewers coming into the game tonight.

The Brewers tacked on another run in the third to extend their lead to 3-0. The score would stay that way till the fifth. The Merchants loaded the bases with no outs against Brewers starter Ryan Olson. Jared Purdy got the Merchants on the board first with an RBI single.

The big hit of the inning came from Brady Anderson, who was in his first game back from the MINK League. Anderson’s two RBI single to left with the bases loaded tied the game up at three. 

After the Merchants tied it up, Baumgartner shut down the Brewers bats the rest of the night, allowing only four Brewers to reach base the rest of the game.

The winning run for Merchants came in the sixth. Dakotah Kirchenwitz reached base via walk and Bryan Erstad laced a clutch two out RBI single to left field to give the M’s the lead.

Baumgartner scattered nine hits on the mound to pick up his seventh victory for the year. Andrew Hill along with Purdy and Anderson each had two hits for the Merchants.

The victory for the Merchants was their first against the Brewers since June 23, 2013.

The Merchants (17-7) will look to wrap up the regular season Wednesday night at Merchant Field against the Mayville Redcaps.

By Merchants beat writer, Billy Bumbomber

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants scored three runs in the top of the eighth to beat the FM Gators 10-7 at Merchant Field on Wednesday night.

The Merchants jumped out to a 7-3 lead after five innings, highlighted by a Dan Ross solo homer in the third.

Ross also tossed 4.1 innings of one-hit ball on the mound; he cruised through his first four innings until he ran into trouble in the seventh.

The Gators strung together a couple walks along with a few Merchant errors to put up a four spot in the seventh to tie the game.

The Merchants answered back with three in the top of the eighth to take a 10-7 lead, the M’s were able to hold the Gators scoreless for the last two innings to improve to (16-7) on the year.

Andrew Hill threw two innings of relief to pick up his first career Merchant win.  At the plate Jeff Nold led the Merchants with a three-hit day while Bryan Erstad added two hits and the go ahead RBI in the 8^th inning.

The Merchants next game will be on August 7^th against the Moorhead Brewers at Jack Williams Stadium in Fargo. First pitch is scheduled for 6:30 PM.

By Merchants beat writer Billy Bumbomber

Jamestown, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants got back on track Sunday at Jack Brown Stadium with a pair of 1-0 victories over the Jamestown Greyhounds and the Jamestown Elks.

Pitching was the story of the afternoon for the Merchants.

In game one against the Hounds, starter Brandon Baumgartner tossed a three-hit shutout. Baumgartner struck-out eight batters while not allowing a single Greyhound to reach second base.

The Merchants scored their only run of the game in the third. A pair of two out singles by Andrew Hill and Kevin Gall brought Bryan Erstad to the plate. Erstad crushed a 0-2 fastball over the centerfielders head that scored Hill to give the Merchants their only run of the game.

In game two against the Elks, Merchant starter Sam Hirchert one-upped Baumgartner by taking a no-hitter into the seventh. Sam gave up a lead-off single in the seventh but managed to retire the next three Elks in order to complete his one-hit shutout.

At the plate the Merchants managed only six hits; they plated their only run in the fifth on a base hit by Merchatfish pick up, Devin Piehl.

The Merchants are now (15-7) on the year and return to play this Wednesday at 7:00 PM against the FM Gators.

By Merchants beat writer Billy Bumbomber

Enderlin, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants were shutout 1-0 Friday night in Enderlin at Hendrickson Field.

The Merchant bats were dominated all night long. The M’s could only muster two hits while striking out 18 times.

The lone bright spot for the Merchants was on the mound. Anthony Fontana was dominant, allowing one unearned run in eight innings of work.

Bryan Erstad and Preston Jenson collected the only two hits for the M’s.

Jeff Nold contributed in a big way by booking a party bus (from South Dakota for some reason) for transportation.  The Merchants made sure to stop at many local establishments on the long hard depressing drive back to the city lights of Fargo.  Somehow, they managed to collect themselves and persevere.  There were even a few key events that took place that night.  “Eddie Merchant” finally joined Facebook, the Kirchenwitz brothers took their Christmas card picture at the Leonard bar, and Dakotah ate a goldfish.

The Merchants travel to Jamestown Sunday for a double-header against the Greyhounds and the Elks.

By Merchants beat writer Brandon Baumgartner

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants saw their five game winning streak snapped at the hands of the Mayville Redcaps Wednesday night at Merchant Field.

Batting with three pitchers in the lineup the Merchants were unable to string hits together against the soft tossing Mayville pitchers.

After scoring two in the first and one in the second the Merchant bats went cold for the next five innings as Mayville came back from a 3-0 deficit to take a 4-3 lead heading into the bottom of the eighth.

In the eighth, Joe Vannett led off with a walk and advanced to third after a ground out and a wild pitch. Brandon Baumgartner then hit a routine ground out to the Mayville second baseman that was playing back which allowed Vannett to easily score from third to tie the game up.

In the ninth, Baumgartner allowed a one out walk to Mayville’s catcher, after a wild pitch and a strikeout Mayville’s sixth batter blooped a two-out  single into center field that allowed the Redcaps to take a 5-4 lead.

In the bottom of the ninth the Merchants were able to put two runners on with two outs but Bryan Erstad popped up to third to end the game.

“We really should have pulled this one out tonight, but who cares we have Enderlin on Friday. The Mayor’s coming to town!” stated the Mayor of Enderlin, Jeff Nold, as he crushed a freshly opened Beast.

The Merchants travel to take on the Indies of Enderlin Friday night. First pitch is scheduled for 7:00 PM; the M’s will depart on the team bus around 5:00 PM at Nold’s house.

NOTES: Brandon Baumgartner went 1-4 at the plate and extended his hit streak to 13 games.

By Merchants beat writer Brandon Baumgartner

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants fried the Cass County Catfish yet again at Merchant Field on Wednesday night 13-2, to extend their win streak to five.

The Merchants jumped on Catfish starter Gage Ausmus early taking a 3-0 lead after two.

Shane Wolf battled the wet conditions and silenced the Catfish all night, throwing six innings of two-run ball to pick up his first career Merchant win. He promptly celebrated by heading to The Turf for Mug Night.

The Merchant bats exploded for multiple runs in the fifth and sixth and three runs a piece in the seventh and eighth to end the game via the ten-run rule after eight.

At the plate the Merchants were highlighted by Doppler Dan Ross as he hit his second home run of the season. Joe Vannett and Jared Meiklejohn each added three hits for the M’s.

The Miller Lite Merchants will take on the Mayville Redcaps next Wednesday at Merchant Field.

By Merchants Staff, Brandon Baumgartner

Jamestown, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants won the Dale “Gopher” Lien Memorial Baseball Tournament this past weekend at Jack Brown Stadium.

The Merchants won all three games this weekend behind a dominant pitching staff and some decent hitting.

In the title game on Sunday, the Merchants defeated the Jamestown Elks 7-3. The M’s were in control all game long. Scoring single runs the first four inning to take a 4-1 lead after four.

The Merchants then added three insurance runs in the sixth. Two of those three came off the bat of Bryan Erstad when he crushed a 1-1 slider over the right field fence and into the river.

Brandon Baumgartner threw all seven for the Merchants to improve to (5-1) on the year.

On Saturday, the Merchants fried the Catfish and then snuck by Groton, South Dakota to earn a spot in the title game.

Against the Cass County Catfish the Merchants received a stellar outing on the mound from Chase Carpenter. Chase went all seven innings allowing only five Catfish to reach base all day.

The Merchant bats were led by Bryan Erstad yet again who went yard in the M’s four-run third to give them all the runs they would need as they won 5-0.

Against a scrappy Groton squad, the Merchants held on to a 4-3 victory behind another strong pitching performance. This time it was Sam Hirchert, Sam went the distance for the Merchants allowing no earned runs and striking out seven Groton batters.

The offense was supplied by Joe Vannett who hit a two-run homer in the third inning to give the Merchants a 4-1 lead at the time. Groton came back and scored two runs in the fifth to make it a one-run game, but Sam silenced the Groton bats in the last two innings as the Merchants held on to the one-run victory.

The Merchants have now won back-to-back Gopher tournaments. A special thanks to Shady’s Bar for hosting the tournament yet again this year.

The Miller Lite Merchants are back in action Wednesday as they will look to fry the Catfish yet again. First pitch is scheduled for 7:00PM.

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants held off a furious comeback by the Moorhead Miners Wednesday night and came away with a 7-6 victory.

The Merchants were in control most of the game as they jumped out to a four run lead in third inning, highlighted by a two-RBI double by Bryan Erstad.

Starting pitcher Brandon Baumgartner held the Miners scoreless for the first six innings until they scored one off of him in the seventh.

The Merchants responded with two more runs in the eighth to make the score 6-1 heading to the bottom of the inning.

However, the Miners started their comeback off reliever Sam Hirchert by scoring two in the eighth. The M’s added an insurance run in the ninth to make the score 7-3, but the Miners were not done.

The Miners strung four hits, a couple walks and a hit batter to plate three runs and load the bases with two outs in the ninth. Sam buckled down with the winning run on second and got the Miners leadoff hitter to pop out to third to end the game.

With the win the Miller Lite Merchants move to (9-5) on the year and will host the Dale “Gopher “Lein Memorial Baseball Tournament sponsored by Shady’s Bar this weekend at Jack Brown Stadium.

 Saturday - July 9th
10:00 AM – Elks vs. Groton, SD
Noon – Cass County Catfish vs. Merchants
2:00 PM – Groton, SD vs. Merchants

Sunday – July 10th
10:00 AM – Catfish vs. Elks
Noon – Groton, SD vs. Catfish
2:00 PM– Elks vs. Merchants

NOTES: Brandon Baumgartner extended his team leading 11 game hit-streak by going 1 for 3 at the plate Wednesday night. Merchant Brady Anderson who is off playing in the MINK Collegiate Summer League was named to the MINK All-Star team this week. Congratulations Brady! Also Hairball plays at the Red River Valley Fair next Wednesday, so get ready to rock.

Fargo, ND – The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants took a 3-0 lead into the 7^th inning but could not hold on as the bullpen gave up four runs in the 7^th as the Merchants lost 4-3 to the FM Gators at No Name Field on Wednesday night.

Starter Greg Lunski was stellar on the mound for the Merchants as he went six scoreless innings only allowing four hits.

However, in the 7^th, Merchant reliever Zach Noriega allowed the first five Gators to reach base as they evened the score up at three. Brandon Baumgartner relieved Noriega but gave up a sac fly that scored the eventual winning run for the Gators.

The Merchants continued to leave numerous runners on base as they have all year long. The M’s had 16 base runners on Wednesday but were only able to score three of them.

Bryan Erstad, Joe Vannett and Brandon Baumgartner each had two hits for the Merchants; Baumgartner drove in two of the three runs.

As for the birthday boy, J-Rod went 1 for 4 at the plate and was rewarded with the DH spot for the game. J-Rod and the Merchants are now 5-2 lifetime on his birthday.

The Merchants (8-5) take the Fourth of July weekend off and play next Wednesday against the Moorhead Miners.

Fargo, ND - The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants scored four runs in the bottom of the seventh inning en route to a 6-2 win over the Jamestown Elks on Wednesday night at No Name Field.

Preston Jensen went 2-for-3 with two runs batted in for the Merchants, who improved to 8-4 on the season. Anthony Fontana added two hits, an RBI and run scored. Jason Angelo also had two hits and scored twice. Bryan Erstad added an RBI-double. Andrew Hill and Jared Purdy had one hit and one RBI each.

Brandon Baumgartner worked three innings of hitless relief to get the win on the mound for the Merchants. Baumgartner walked one and struck out two. Sam Hirchert went the first six innings, allowing just two runs (one earned) with seven strikeouts.

Up next for the Merchants is the Fargo-Moorhead Gators on Wednesday in Fargo. The first five fans in attendance get a coupon for a free alligator on-a-stick courtesy of Hardeez.

Fargo, ND – The Merchants snapped their three game losing streak Wednesday night as they defeated the Cass County Catfish 11-1 at No Name Field.

The game was close through the first 5½ innings as the Merchants clung to a 3-1 lead. However, a clutch two out, two RBI single by Jameson Benson helped the M’s put up a four spot in the sixth. In the seventh, the new Catfish pitcher walked six of the first seven batters he faced as the Merchants added four more to end the game via the ten-run rule.

 The Merchants were paced offensively by newcomer Andrew Hill and “Doppler” Dan Ross who both collect two hits apiece. Ross continues to bust out of his early season slump, he has now gone 5 for 9 in his past three games. “I’ve been putting in a lot of extra soft toss lately, my wife (Dana) is a soft toss expert and has really been teaching me to drive the ball to all fields,” stated Ross as he took a bite of his Spicy Garlic wing at Buffalo Wild Wings Wednesday night.

 Joe Vannett and Jason Angelo also had two hits each as the Merchants had eleven hits in all.

 On the mound, the Merchants Big 4 held the Catfish hitters to one run on six hits, while walking three and striking out fourteen batters.

 The Merchants take the weekend off and return to the field next Wednesday to take on the Jamestown Elks. First pitch schedule for 7:00 PM at No Name Field. Fans, please remember to show up early next week as the first ten fans in attendance will receive a piece of elk jerky courtesy of Miller Lite.

Detroit Lakes, MN – For the second tournament in a row the Jamestown Merchants advanced to the Sunday title game only to come up short. This time the M’s lost to the Jamestown Elks 4-1 in the title game of the Angels Amateur Tournament in Detroit Lakes.

The Merchants yet again stranded numerous runners.  Team manager Bryan Erstad who went 3 for 3 at the plate could sense the outcome, “For whatever reason, there wasn’t a whole lot of life in the dugout today.  It was a beautiful Sunday championship day versus the Elks and we laid an egg.  It’s unacceptable.  I think the Holiday Haven and Zorbaz had something to do with it, too.” 

The Merchants had plenty of chances against the Elks but could only muster a single run in the seventh. The Elks padded their 1-0 lead with three runs in the sixth off Merchant starter Brandon Baumgartner to take a 4-0 lead entering the seventh. Baumgartner took the lost for the M’s going six innings while giving up four unearned runs.  Baumgartner stated, “I didn’t have my best stuff but it was good enough to win today.  It’s not my fault there were four more unearned runs” bringing his total to 8 runs allowed this year, 0 earned.  Baumy continued, “Bryan Erstad carried the offense all weekend, but there’s only so much he can do.  It’s not like he can hit a home run every game.”

Erstad and the Merchant pitching were the story of the first two games of the tournament.

On Friday night, Greg Lunski fired six scoreless innings on the mound against the Staples Lumberbats to collect his first win of year as the M’s won 7-0. Lunski struck out eight and only allowed three hits.

The Merchants only had five hits, Jason Angelo and Bryan Erstad each had two apiece, with Erstad connecting on his first home run of the year to open the game up in the fifth.

On Saturday, Steve Hirchert and Bryan Erstad punched the Merchants ticket to the title game beating the Detroit Lakes Angels 3-2. Hirchert struck out 13 Angel batters, while Erstad provided the Merchants with their only offense of the game blasting a three run home run off the playground in right-center.

The Merchants take the diamond on Wednesday against the Pelican Rapids Lakers at Helling Field in Fargo; first pitch is scheduled for 7:30 PM.

Fargo, ND – On a chilly Wednesday night at Helling Field, Sam Hirchert led the Merchants to a 7-3 victory over the FM Gators.

Hirchert tossed six scoreless innings on the mound for Merchants to collect his first win of the season. “My arm took a couple innings to loosen up in the cold weather but once it did those Gators didn’t stand a chance,” commented Sam as he downed a Beast in the parking lot.

The M’s were led at the plate by Anthony Fontana who continued his hot hitting with another multi-hit game. “I contribute my hot start at the plate to the countless amount of free Beast that Bstad brings us, I really appreciate it,” stated Fontana as he spoke with Merchant beat reporter Catherine Ross.

Bryan Erstad also had two hits for the Merchants who had nine hits total for the night.

The M’s will travel to the Angels Amateur Tournament in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota this weekend. The first game of the weekend is scheduled for 6:30 PM Friday night against the Staples Lumberbats.

NOTES: The Merchants say good-bye to Joe Demers and Brady Anderson for the summer as they head off to play in their respective collegiate summer leagues. We wish them the best of luck.

Fargo, ND – “We just couldn’t get that big hit when we needed it,” stated Merchant centerfielder Bryan Erstad. The Merchants ended up stranding ten runners in the title game of the Herd & Horns Invitational at Jack Williams Stadium in Fargo over the weekend.

The Miller Lite Merchants out hit the Moorhead Brewers eight to four in the title game. However, the Brewers were able to string three of those four hits together in the fifth and score the only run of the ball game as they claimed the title beating the Merchants 1-0.

Sam Hirchert had a stellar outing on the mound for the Merchants, going all seven innings and only giving up one run.

Jared J-Rod Purdy led the Merchants at the plate going three for four. Dakotah Kirchenwitz and Bryan Erstad each added two hits.

The Merchants swept through pool play by beating the FM Gators 7-2 on Friday night behind the strong pitching performance of Steve Hirchert and another three hit game by J-Rod.

On Saturday, the M’s beat the Pelican Rapids Lakers 3-2 to clinch a spot in the title game. Brandon Baumgartner went the distance for the Merchants throwing all seven, in what was a sloppy game by both the teams.

The Merchants (3-1) look to rebound on Wednesday against Pelican Rapids, game time is moved back to 7:30pm at Helling Field.

Fargo, ND – For the first time in 8 years, the Merchants had new catchers gear. “Boy did I look sharp tonight, catcher Anthony Fontana said. “I might not give up a passed ball all year.”

The new Merchant catcher's gear gave Fontana confidence at the plate too; the Merchant backstop led the way at the plate going three for four with a triple.

“I think the new gear just gave me that extra swagger today,” stated Fontana while he downed a Beast in the parking lot.

The Merchant pitching staff must have felt comfortable throwing to Fontana in that new gear. Five Merchant pitchers combined to strikeout 19 Mets, while only giving up two hits.

Brandon Baumgartner filled in for usual opening day starter Greg Lunski and got the win for on the mound for the Merchants, throwing two scoreless innings in the pre-determined split.

After a taking a year off, Steve Hirchert made his comeback by striking out the side in his only inning on the mound and getting a line drive base hit in his only at bat.

The Merchants head to the Herd & Horns Invitational this weekend. Their first game is on Friday at 6:15 pm at Jack Williams Stadium in Fargo.

John M. Steiner / The Jamestown Sun Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants pitcher Sam Hirchert delivers during the state Class AAA championship game on Sunday at Jack Brown Stadium.

Back on top; Merchants clip Red Caps for ninth amateur crown

After winning in 2013, but falling short last summer, the Merchants reclaimed the Class AAA crown on Sunday, beating the Mayville Red Caps 6-4 at Jack Brown Stadium.

Amateur MVPs announced

 

Red Caps win late: Pitching leads Merchants

Fargo, North Dakota – The Merchants entered the bottom of the ninth down 4-1. They had left thirteen runners on base through the first eight innings and even got two runners gunned down at the plate. By a minor miracle, things changed and the Merchants finished the regular season on a winning note.

“I’m really proud of how the guys stuck together tonight and kept grinding it out to get the win with their backs to the wall in the 9^th inning,” stated Bryan Erstad who went 3 for 3 at the plate. He added, “They say you’re only as good as you’re last at bat. Well, I’m glad everyone forgot about that because there were no RBI’s in our last AB’s. We saved them for the end. It was a big character builder for the Merchants squad.” 

Mayville helped out the M’s to begin the ninth by walking the first three of the four batters to load the bases. Mayville then brought in Mickey Berry to shut the door. Scott Stephenson battled Berry and drew a walk after an eight pitch at bat to make the score 4-2. Mayville then got Tom Houdek to ground into a fielder’s choice, where they managed to get the runner out at home to keep the score 4-2 with one out. Brandon Baumgartner stepped up to the plate next.

“Good thing he threw me a fastball, I had no chance at an off speed pitch,” stated Baumgartner as he crushed a Hardeez Thickbruger in the parking lot after the game.

Baumgartner lined the first pitch he saw from Berry over the second base man’s head bringing home two Merchants to even the score at four.

With the game now tied at four and runners on first and second, Mayville got the second out of the inning by striking out Anthony Fontana. That brought up Brady Anderson who was in a funk at the plate.

“I’ve been struggling all week long, I had to be like 0 for my last 20, it was about time I got a hit,” stated Brady after he got mauled by his teammates.

Anderson promptly laced a single up the middle scoring the winning run for the Merchants to cap off a four run ninth to beat Mayville 5-4.

“Doppler” Dan Ross picked up his first career Merchant win by throwing two scoreless innings of relief for starter Brandon Baumgartner.

The Merchants ended the regular season with a 15-8 record. Next up for the M’s will be the AAA State Tournament. The state tournament will take place August 14-16 at Jack Brown Stadium in Jamestown.  It is a 6 team pool play tournament with the Merchants facing the Bismarck Brewers at 11:00 am and Mayville at 3:00 pm on Saturday.  Sunday is single elimination with semi-final games at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm and the championship at 3:00 pm.

Valley City, North Dakota- “It was great to be back in Valley (City). I was able to go to my old gym, get a good lift in and stop by Hardeez on the way to the ballpark. I felt very comfortable on the mound and at the plate today, it was like home,” stated former Valley City State standout baseball player and winning pitcher Scott Stephenson.

Stephenson did it all for the Merchants on Sunday at Charlie Brown Stadium against the Jamestown Elks.

Scott fired eight solid innings on the mound in his first start of the summer. The Elks managed only three runs on nine hits, while Scott struck out five batters. Stephenson also did damage at the plate by going 3 for 5, he scored three of the Merchants ten runs.

“My fastball had to be hitting 90 today along with my hammer of a curveball.  I don’t think the Yankees would have beaten me,” said Scott as he did some post game pushups in the parking lot.

The Merchants knocked the Elks pitching around all day. Lewis Weldon led the M’s at the plate by going 5 for 5 with a double and three RBI’s.

Dan Ross started the scoring off for the Merchants with a solo homer in the second inning. Bryan Erstad hit a two-run homer for the Merchants in the fifth to break open a 3-3 tie. The Merchants would tack on four more in the sixth to blow the game open and cruise to 10-3 victory.

Joe Vannett, Brian Dafforn and Dan Ross each had multi-hit games for the M’s as a part of the 17 hit attack on Sunday.

The Merchants improved to 14-8 on the year. The M’s will host Mayville in their regular season finale on Wednesday at Helling Field in Fargo. The first ten fans in attendance will receive a Jeff Nold postcard courtesy of Hardeez. First pitch scheduled for 7:05 PM.

Enderlin, North Dakota – The Merchants rode in style on a 30 passenger bus to Enderlin on Friday night in what turned out to be the “Scott Stephenson Show.”

“I hit the gym so hard this morning, I knew we had a big game tonight and my team needed me to step up,” stated the burly Stephenson.  Scott shined on the field and at the VFW after the game setting a record for slices of Hegge’s pizza eaten.

Stephenson, the Merchants regular left fielder led the M’s at the plate by going 2 for 4 with a solo homer that drilled a passing by train in centerfield. Last we heard, Scott’s ball was still travelling on the train somewhere down in Missouri.

However, it was on the mound where Scott really showed his dominance.

The Indies looked baffled all night while Scott mixed in upper 80’s fastballs and knee buckling curveballs as the sun went down on the dimly lit Enderlin field. “You think those guys go to the gym seven days a week like me? I don’t think so,” stated Scott while he downed his postgame protein shake.

Stephenson was phenomenal on the mound, throwing four scoreless innings of relief for starter Greg Lunski.  Stephenson allowed only one hit and struck out ten batters.

“I haven’t seen a shutdown performance like this in a while,” stated the self proclaimed "Mayor of Enderlin," Jeff Nold while he crushed some post game Hardeez on the party bus.

The Merchants collected ten hits in total and broke a tie ball game open with a five-run fifth inning. Stephenson shut the door the rest of the way and collected his second save of the year.

On a down note, Preston Jensen was hit by a pitch and broke his hand.  It’s not looking good as far as PJ getting back on the field this year.  We wish him the best and know he will be back stronger than ever next year!

The Merchants (13-7) will travel to Target Field West Fargo on Wednesday to play the Moorhead Brewers. Game time scheduled for 7:00 PM.

Fargo, North Dakota – The Merchants lost 4-3 against the Moorhead Brewers Wednesday night at Helling Field.

Sam Hirchert started for the Merchants and was phenomenal for the first six innings. However, he ran into some trouble in the seventh. The Brewers scored three runs all coming on a three run home run by Tom Fuchs.

“Would I have liked to throw a CG shutout?  Of course.  Was I dominating for the most part tonight?  Of course.  That tall 8 hitter sat back on a 3-2 curveball and popped it up over the right field fence.  What can I say?  I’m only one guy.  I can’t pitch and score runs for this team.  I mean, I could, but might as well let the other guys play, too,” chimed Sam after the game on his way to Hardeez with his girlfriend.

The Brewers tacked on another run in the eighth off Baumy to make the score 4-2.

The Merchants threatened in the eighth picking up a run to make it 4-3, but were sent down in order in the ninth.

Tom Houdek collected two hits and Dan Ross drove in two runs for the Merchants in the loss.

The Merchants (12-7) will travel to Enderlin Friday night. First pitch scheduled for 7:00 PM.

J-Rod with an outstanding "take" on a high pitch.

Fargo, North Dakota- In the first ever North Dakota Amateur Baseball matchup between Purdy brothers, Jared “J-Rod” Purdy of the Jamestown Merchants came away victorious over his brother Daren and the Fargo Mets.

The J-Rod and Merchants shutout the Mets 3-0 in a rain shortened game Friday night at Teamsters Field.

J-Rod led the way for the Merchants knocking in two of the three Merchant runs with sac flies in his first two at bats.

“It was a big night for my family; we had fifteen to twenty Purdy’s in attendance. I’m just glad we were able to win” stated J-Rod while he, Darren and the rest of the Purdy family crushed some Hardeez after the game.

Brandon Baumgartner threw five scoreless on the mound for the Merchants; he allowed one hit and struck out nine batters.

The Merchants are now 12-6 on the year. Their next game will take place Wednesday night at 7:00 PM against the Red River Shrimpers. The first five fans in attendance will receive a copy of Forrest Gump on VHS.

Jamestown, North Dakota – The Jamestown Merchants swept the field at the Dale “Gopher” Lien Memorial Baseball Tournament this weekend at Jack Brown Stadium.

The Merchants were carried by their pitching and a little bit of hitting this weekend.

In game one against the LaMoure Merchants, Paul Roers and Scott Stephenson fired a one-hitter. Roers was dominant the first five innings before running into trouble in the sixth. Stephenson came on for Roers with two guys on and one out, he proceed to strikeout out the next two batters to keep the 2-1 lead for the M’s intact. Stephenson finished the game in the seventh by striking out the side.

“I was really jacked up from all the front squats I did at the gym this morning. I was ready to go and shut the door on LaMoure,” stated the muscular Stephenson in mid push-up position.

The Merchant bats did just enough collecting only six hits with Stephenson and Brandon Baumgartner knocking in the two Merchant runs.

In game two against the Mayville Redcaps it was all Sam Hirchert. Hirchert allowed only two hits and struck out six for the complete game shutout.

“We had great defense behind me today.  Although, I’m not really sure I needed it.  The ball was coming out of my hand like Lunski leaves work for the lake at noon on a Friday, like a rocket,” stated Sam while he crushed some post game Hardeez with his girlfriend after the win.

The M’s scored four runs on seven hits in rout to the 4-0 victory over the Redcaps. Brady Anderson led the way with two hits.

The championship game of the “Gopher” Tournament came down to two bitter rivals as the Merchants squared off against the Jamestown Elks.

This matchup would become an instant classic.

It was a back and forth battle from the get go as the Merchants scored single runs in the first and second to take a 2-0 lead off Elks starter Boya Quichocho.

The Elks scored one run in the third and then regained the lead in the fourth as M’s starter Brandon Baumgartner was touched for two more runs giving the Elks a 3-2 lead after four.

The Merchants entered the bottom of the sixth still down one. A one out walk by Hirchert, followed by a Baumgartner single, set the stage for Brady Anderson.

“I knew it was gone right off the bat, it was a no doubter,” stated Brady as his ball barely scraped over the ivy in right field where the fence is only 300 feet.

Anderson’s three run homer gave the Merchants a 5-3 lead heading into the top of the seventh. Baumgartner allowed one Elk run in the seventh before getting the final out to clinch the “Gopher” Tournament Title.

Preston Jensen, Bryan Erstad and Scott Stephenson all collected multiple hits for the M’s.

“We had a great showing this weekend on the scoreboard. Our execution on shagging foul balls and helping get the field ready was very lackluster. One of these years I just request for a couple of guys to get off their a*ses before and between games to help on the field.  I realize sitting in the Merchant room drinking Beasts, getting food from Hardeez, and showering are very important to you, but please, just please, give me 5 minutes of your time to help on the field!!” stated tournament director and Merchant centerfielder Bryan Erstad.

The Jamestown Merchants would also like to thank Miller Lite and Shady’s bar for sponsoring the tournament.

The Merchants have now won the Dale “Gopher” Lien Memorial Tournament five times. Jamestown (11-6) will look to continue their winning ways this Wednesday against the Kindred Kings. Start time is 7:00 PM at Helling Field in Fargo.

Fargo, North Dakota – The Jamestown Merchants had their eight game winning streak snapped at the hands of the Mayville Redcaps Wednesday night at No Name Field.

The Merchants jumped out to the lead scoring a run in the top of first. Greg Lunski started and pitched three scoreless innings before he had to go to the legendary 80's rock cover band, Hairball, at the Red River Valley Fair. Once Greg left it was pretty much downhill for the M’s. A six run fourth and three run fifth for the Redcaps gave them a 9-1 lead after five.

"I know I let my team down and everything, but when the bombastic celebration of arena rock is in town I can't pass that up," chimed Lunski.

The Merchants managed to add three more runs to make the final score 9-4.

Scott Stephenson and Anthony Fontana combined to throw three innings of scoreless relief.

The Merchants will look to get back on track this weekend at the Dale "Gopher" Lien Memorial baseball tournament hosted by the Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants and Shady's Bar. The four team tournament will consist of the Merchants, LaMoure, Mayville, and the Jamestown Elks. The M’s first game is scheduled for 2:15 PM vs. LaMoure at Jack Brown Stadium.  The full schedule is listed below:

Saturday - July 11th
12:00 pm – Elks vs. LaMoure
2:15 pm – LaMoure vs. Merchants
4:30 pm – Mayville vs. Merchants
6:45 pm – Elks vs. Mayville

Sunday – July 12^th

11:00 am – LaMoure vs. Mayville
1:15 pm – Elks vs. Merchants

Baumgartner Throws All 9 as Merchants Win 8^th Straight

Fargo, North Dakota – The Merchants rode the arm of Brandon Baumgartner to defeat the Red River Shrimpers 7-3 on Wednesday night at Helling Field, the Merchants have now won eight in a row.

Baumgartner threw all nine innings for the M’s, scattering ten hits while giving up two earned runs and striking out thirteen Shrimpers. Baumgartner improved to 3-1 on the year.

The Merchant hitting was the story early in the game. The Merchants stranded multiple base runners in the first two innings but finally broke through in the third innings scoring three runs. Jamestown followed their three run third with three more in the fourth to take 6-0 lead.

The Shrimpers plated single runs against Baumgartner in the fourth, fifth, and sixth to make it a 6-3 game until the M’s scored an insurance run in the top of the eighth.

Five Merchants had multi hit games led by Jared J-Rod Purdy who went 4-5 with a triple. J-Rod upped his team leading batting average to .475 on the year.

“I’ve been crushing the ball all year.  It just goes to show that no practice, non-existent workouts, and a diet of Taco John's and Hardeez is what it takes to put up these kind of numbers,” said J-Rod while he rounded second in rout to his third inning triple.

J-Rod and the M’s will take the Fourth of July weekend off before getting back on the diamond next Wednesday against the Redcaps of Mayville, First pitch scheduled for 7:00 PM

Vannett and Merchants Fry Shrimpers

Fargo, North Dakota – On a rainy Wednesday evening the Jamestown Merchants routed the Red River Shrimpers 9-1 to win their seventh in a row and improve to 7-5 on the year.

The Merchants jumped on the Shrimpers early with a four run first inning highlighted by Scott Stephenson’s two run double.

Sam Hirchert provided the Merchants with five strong innings on the mound giving up only one unearned run and striking out eight to pick up his second victory of the year.

The Merchants broke open a 4-1 game in the seventh off the bat of Joe Vannett, who laced a bases clearing triple into the right center gap. “I think that was my first Merchant triple since the 90’s,” stated Vannett who crushed the Shrimpers pitching all night, collecting three hits while driving in four runs.

The Merchants will have the weekend off before they look to fry the Shrimpers again next Wednesday, July 1^st at Helling Field. First pitch 7:00 PM.

Merchants Homer 6 Times in Rout to the Pelican Rapids Tournament Title

 Pelican Rapids, Minnesota – The Jamestown Merchants mowed through the field at this past weekend’s Pelican Rapids Tournament. The Merchants went 3-0 and got their record over .500 for the first time this year and now sit at 6-5.

 The Merchants began the weekend with a 6-4 victory over the Urbank Bombers. The M’s were led by the bat of Jared J-Rod Purdy, who went two for four with a solo homer and a double. Greg Lunski provide the Merchants with a solid start going 6^1/3 innings before giving way to Andrew Thome who got the last two outs to record the save.

 “I’ve been carrying this offense all year, this weekend was no different,” said J-Rod after the win against Urbank.

 J-Rod did not disappoint in the second game of the tourney either. Purdy and four other Merchants went yard against the Pelican Rapids Lakers in a 10-1 victory to move the M’s into the championship game on Sunday.

 Along with Purdy: Bryan Erstad, Andrew Thome, Brady Anderson and Dan Ross all homered and gave starting pitcher Brandon Baumgartner plenty of run support, the lefty cruised to the complete game allowing one run and striking out six.

 The Merchants entered Sunday’s championship game against the Kindred Kings with a question mark on the mound. The Merchants called upon Chase Carpenter to make his Merchant debut, he did not disappoint.  Chase limited the Kings to only two hits and two runs over six innings and provided the M’s with the solid outing they needed.

 The Merchant bats were led by Brady Anderson and Jameson Benson. Benson broke open a scoreless game in the fourth with a bases clearing double. Anderson brought Benson home during the M’s five run fourth. The Merchants tacked on another run in the sixth to win the championship game 6-2.

 “It was a great weekend for me, my defense, my offense and my base running were all phenomenal, the rest of the team should take notes,” stated Purdy while he celebrated with the rest of his teammates after the game.

 The Merchants will look to add to their six game win streak Wednesday against the Mayville Redcaps at Helling Field in Fargo. First pitch 7:00 PM.

 Notes: Merchants outfielder/pitcher Andrew Thome signed as a free agent Tuesday with the Houston Astros. “The Merchants have been a cornerstone in my journey,” Thome stated during his press conference Tuesday morning. During his four games as a Merchant, Thome batted .500 (7-14) and threw 3^2/3 scoreless innings in relief. The Merchants wish him the best.

Doppler Dan Makes it Rain in Victory Over Kindred

Fargo, North Dakota- “It was a big night for me. It’s not everyday that my entire family shows up, so I figured I might as well show off,” Doppler Dan stated after the Merchants 8-1 victory over the Kindred Kings Wednesday night.

Ross continued his hot start for the Merchants by going 3 for 5 with two doubles; he bumped his batting average up to .400 on the year. 

“I’ve just been seeing the ball really well this year, all the extra soft toss this off season with the wife has really paid off,” he said. 

This game began as a pitchers duel going scoreless through the first three. In his Merchant debut Andrew Thome brought home the Merchants first run in the fourth with a two out RBI single.  

The Merchants would tack on two in the sixth and add four more in the eighth to break open the game and win their third in a row. 

Five Merchant pitchers stymied Kindred’s bats giving up only two hits and an unearned run.

Dan Ross and the hot hitting Merchants will look to continue this win streak in Pelican Rapids this weekend.  First game of the tournament will be at 1:30 PM against Urbank, MN.

Notes: Jeff Nold missed his first night of Wings this year. He’s listed as day-to-day.

Fargo, North Dakota – On a balmy Wednesday evening at Helling Field, the Jamestown Merchants defeated the Kindred Kings 9-4 to improve to 2-5 on the year.

“It was nice to see the bats keep going today, we had struggled early on this year hitting, but after putting up 12 runs on Sunday we followed it up with 9 more tonight.  I'm glad someone could finally give me some run support.  It gets tiring carrying this team all by myself as I was pretty much on tonight," stated starting pitcher Brandon Baumgartner.

The Merchants jumped on the Kings early, scoring runs in each of the first 5 innings, highlighted by Brady Anderson’s first home run of the year. Baumy provided them with a solid outing exiting after five innings with an 8-3 lead.

Zach Hayes and Andrew Favaro each debuted for the M’s and combined to throw 3 scoreless innings of relief.

Both offenses pounded out 11 hits but it was Jamestown who came through in the clutch. Jared Purdy, Dan Ross and Anthony Fontana each collected two hits and drove in multiple runs for the M’s who are looking to turn it around after a slow start.

These two teams will meet again in Kindred this Wednesday, June 17, 2015. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM.

The Wall of Shame in the Merchants room at Jack Brown Stadium displays trophies from years past. The Merchants have won eight state championships, including last season’s Class AAA title. John M. Steiner / The Sun

Generational success: Gould’s Merchants continue to thrive in amateur ball

Merchants register 25th victory

The Jamestown Miller Lite Merchants improved to 25-10 with a 3-1 win over the Mayville Redcaps on Wednesday night.

Brandon Baumgartner fired six strong innings, allowing just five hits with six strikeouts. The lone run the Redcaps got was unearned.

Sam Hirchert nailed it down with three scoreless frames to earn the save. Hirchert allowed three hits and fanned five.

Tom Houdek had two of the Merchants’ six hits. He also scored two of their runs.

Anthony Fontana went 1-for-4 with two RBI. Dan Ross had the other RBI for the Merchants, who are back in action Sunday against the Moorhead Brewers. The Class AAA state tournament is set for Aug. 22-24 in Jamestown.

Merchants beat LaMoure 9-1

Benson leads Merchants to win

Nold, Merchants top Indies

Hounds, Mercs split pair in Jamestown

Merchants top Expos

Merchants shut out Kings

Merchants post 12th win

Merchants sweep Elks, move to 9-2

Merchants continue recent hot streak

Merchants notch sixth victory

Merchants take second in F-M

Merchants sweep Bismarck Brewers