By: J.J. Hartigan

The Sioux Falls Canaries dropped the final game of their four-game weekend series against the Texas AirHogs on Sunday afternoon, losing by the final score of 5-0 at Sioux Falls Stadium.

Canaries starting pitch Ray Hanson had an up and down afternoon, but ultimately suffered his fourth loss of the season after giving up four runs on seven hits over six innings of work. The right-hander retired the first 10 batters of the game, giving up just one hit over his first 4 1/3 innings before the AirHogs struck for three runs on five hits in the top of the 5th inning.

Hanson allowed seven consecutive batters to reach base, including five straight singles from the bottom half of the AirHogs order. Leon Byrd capped off the offensive attack with a lead-off home run in the top of the 6th inning to put Texas up 4-0. Hanson was able to retired the next three batters, but the damage had already been done.

Texas starting pitcher David Russo picked up his second win of the season after holding the Canaries scoreless on two hits over five innings of work.

Blake Schmit was the lone bright spot for the Canaries offensively, going 3-for-4 with a double and two singles. Schmit raised his batting average up to .322 on the season, and has now collected three or more hits in 10 games with the Canaries this season.

The Canaries continue their eight game homestand on Monday night when they welcome the Winnipeg Goldeyes to town. Monday night is also College ID night and Money Monday at the Birdcage. Fans will enjoy discounted ticket and beer prices with an active college ID, and don't forget about $1 hot dogs and $1 bottled Coca-Cola products all game long!

The Canaries will send out LHP Kris Regas (4-5, 5.54 ERA) to battle the Goldeyes in the series opener. Gates open at 6:00 PM on Monday night, with first pitch schedule for 7:05 PM.Contact the Canaries ticket office for information regarding single game or season ticket options by calling 605-336-6060 or visit the website at www.sfcanaries.com for more information.

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