SAL1 Greenville Drive

Drive Lack Big Hit as Braves Sweep Twinbill

Published on May 18, 2009 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Greenville, SC - The inability to produce key hits with runners in scoring position proved to be the difference Monday afternoon for the Drive (20-18). Greenville stranded 16 baserunners during their doubleheader with the Rome Braves (22-16), falling 4-1 in the first game and 2-1 in game two.

The troubles began in the Drive's very first at bat as they loaded the bases with no outs. However, they were unable to push across a run as Jacob Thompson (2-3) struckout Tim Federowicz and Mitch Dening, while inducing David Mailman to hit a fly out to get out of the inning unscathed.

The Braves used runs in a three-inning span against Bryan Price (3-2) from the third through the fifth to build a lead they would not relinquish. Jesus Sucre's double broke the scoreless tie and Gerry Rodriguez added a sacrifice fly in the third. Throwing errors by Mailman in the fourth and fifth innings accounted for Rome's final two runs.

Oscar Tejeda gave the Drive their only run in the bottom of the fifth with an RBI-single, scoring Zach Gentile.

Game two looked similar to that of its counterpart as the Drive left 10 runners on base in a 2-1 loss. All Rome needed for the victory was RBI doubles from Sucre and Luis Sumoza off Hunter Strickland (1-4) to complete the four-game sweep.

The Drive's lone run came in the bottom of the third as they were able to capitalize on two Braves' errors. David Marks hit a two out single, advanced to second on a failed pickoff and scored when Pete Hissey reached on a fielder's choice.

Greenville had several chances to take the lead but Brett DeVall (2-1) and Paul Clemens were able to hold off the Drive's offense. DeVall was able to escape a bases loaded jam in the fifth, his final inning, and Clemens was able to do it an inning later.

After an off day on Tuesday, the Drive begin an eight-game road trip to the state of Georgia, with games in Augusta and Rome. First pitch for Wednesday's game at Lake Olmstead Stadium versus the GreenJackets is set for 7:05 PM.

While the Drive are away, there will still be great baseball action at Fluor Field as Greenville hosts the Southern Conference Baseball Tournament from May 20-24. Daily Passes are available for $10 in addition to the Tournament Pass for $85, which includes a daily food option. Single-game tickets, group outings, and luxury accommodations can be purchased by calling (864) 240-4500 or visit www.GreenvilleDrive.com for more information.

NOTES: Attendance was 4,719

Check out the Greenville Drive Statistics

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South Atlantic League Stories from May 18, 2009


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