The Lincoln Saltdogs dropped the second game of their series in El Paso on Tuesday, losing 5-0 to the Diablos.  Lincoln falls to 14-10 on the second half of the season.

The Saltdogs had several chances to plate a run early against El Paso starter Justin Mallett (4-4), but failed to convert, and ended the night with only five hits.  Mallett tossed his second complete game in a row, walking three and striking out six as he gave the Diablos their first win over the Dogs this season.

El Paso, meanwhile, took advantage of three Lincoln errors to overcome Saltdogs starter Brian Campbell (3-4).  They plated three runs in the fourth inning, two of which scored on a single by Hector Bernal.  It didn’t appear that any runs would score, but Lincoln center fielder Josh Burrus let the ball get by him, allowing both runners to head home.  In the fifth inning, El Paso added a run when Jeff Vincent stole second, took third when Shawn McGill threw the ball into center field, and scored when Burrus let the ball get past him.  The Diablos added the final run of the game in the sixth inning.

Rafael Alvarez had a good night at the plate for Lincoln, going 3-for-4 with a stolen base.  On the mound, Forrest Cory pitched a scoreless inning in relief, striking out two.

The two teams play the rubber match of their three-game series Wednesday night at 8:05 Central Time.  Righty Tim Brown will make the start for Lincoln.

The next Saltdogs homestand begins on August 7. For more team and ticket information, go to www.saltdogs.com.