BELLINGHAM, Wash. – Bellingham’s Ray Hanson and Mitch Ludtke combined on a four-hit shutout Sunday, June 28, in an exhibition game against the Everett Merchants.

Hanson, appearing in his first game since the Bells last faced the Merchants on June 11, pitched five innings and struck out two before being put in line for the win on a Tanner Leighton single that drove in Danny Hennigs for the game’s first run in the home half of the fifth.

Ludtke earned the save after pitching four hitless innings, but struggled with his command and walked four batters, including three in the ninth. In all, the Bells walked seven in the 3-0 victory.

Bellingham scored two more runs in the sixth on a two-out single by Hennigs. His hit plated Chris Amezquita and Beau Brett.

“It was nice to see our guys bounce back after two tough losses,” said Bells head coach Brandon Newell. “Everett is always a touch match-up and Ray looked great against them today after only throwing a few bullpen sessions last week. Getting his arm back is going to be a great addition to this pitching staff.”

The Bells have an off day Monday, June 29, before continuing the later half of an eight-game homestand with three games against Kelowna (June 30 – July 2) and one against Kitsap (July 3).

Tickets for all the games are still available and can be purchased by contacting the Bells Ticket Office at (360) 527-1035.