The Billings Mustangs (20-5) erased a late deficit in the ninth inning to force a Knockout Round on their way to a 12-11 win over the Missoula PaddleHeads (13-13) on Wednesday night at Ogren Park at Allegiance Field.

Missoula jumped out to an early advantage, scoring four runs in the first inning and holding onto the lead throughout much of the night.

The Mustangs continued their power surge one night after setting a franchise record with nine home runs, launching five more long balls on Wednesday. Kyle Micklus led the way with his second consecutive two-homer game, while Charlie Muniz hit his team-leading 10th home run of the year. Michael Soper and Adam Cootway also went deep for Billings.

Trailing by a run entering the ninth, the Mustangs found a way to extend the game. A.J. Shaver delivered an RBI single to tie the game 11-11.

Shaver then represented Billings in the Knockout Round, hitting four homers to set the bar.

Former Mustang Xavier Casserilla hit for Missoula and managed just one home run, giving Billings the Knockout Round victory.

The win secured the first series win for the Mustangs over the PaddleHeads since September 2024.

The Mustangs will look to complete a three-game sweep of the PaddleHeads on Thursday night. Right-hander Jaden Harris is expected to start for Billings. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 pm.