southlandvikings.com

Whiting, Ind. – July 18, 2023 – The Southland Vikings sent five players to the 2023 Northern League All-Star Game and each one played a role in the West’s 7-3 win over the East at Oil City Stadium on Tuesday.

Nolan Vlcek and Matt Merk were named starters for the game and immediately made an impact as Vlcek worked a scoreless inning and was helped out by Merk throwing out Kevin Hall trying to steal third base to end the inning.

Merk remained behind the plate for the first five innings and showed off his arm strength as he came close to catching another baserunner in the third.

Will Moell was the next All-Star to enter the game for the Vikings as he tossed the fifth inning. He was able to keep the West in front 3-2 by allowing just one run after a runner reached on a ball that took an unfortunate hop to get through.

Jack Fitzharris entered the game defensively at second base in the sixth inning and he closed out the top half of the seventh by applying a good tag for another caught stealing for the West. Fitzharris also cracked a single into right-center in the bottom of the seventh inning.

Jorgie Vazquez was the man on the mound in the top of the seventh inning, tossing a scoreless frame while allowing just one walk as he benefited from the inning ending caught stealing.

The Vikings All-Stars shined off the field as well by taking the time to interact with fans by signing autographs and even playing catch with some young fans.

The Southland Vikings will enjoy a day off on Wednesday before returning to action on Thursday when they host the Lake County Corn Dogs at Dowling Park. First pitch is at 5pm.