SAL1 Greenville Drive

Hits Come in Bunches in Drive's 9-1 Win Over Legends

Published on June 6, 2009 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Lexington, KY - The Drive (30-24) offense provided plenty of firepower for pitcher Nick Hagadone, who was making his first start in over a year after recovering from Tommy John Surgery. Backed by Anthony Rizzo's two-hit, five RBI performance, the Drive cruised to a 9-1 victory over the Lexington Legends (29-26) in the second game of the series at Applebee's Park.

Although he lasted just 1-2/3 innings and did not factor into the decision, it was a huge step forward for Hagadone who made only three starts in 2008. The left-hander allowed a hit and walk, while fanning two in his scoreless inning, before giving way to Caleb Clay (2-2).

The Drive disposed of Legends' starting pitcher Brad Dydalewicz (3-1) after just 2-1/3 innings, plating six runs off the right-hander. Following a David Mailman single to leadoff the game, Rizzo belted a third-pitch offering for his seventh homer of the season. Kade Keowen added an RBI-single to spot Greenville a three-run lead after an inning of play.

The runs and hits kept coming in the second inning as Rizzo delivered a two-out, two-run double to score Zach Gentile and Mailman. In the third, the Drive took a 7-0 lead as Ryan Dent laced an RBI-double and later scored on a wild pitch.

Greenville closed out their scoring in the top of the sixth when an error on a grounder by Rizzo allowed two runs to score.

Following Hagadone, Clay limited the Legends to three hits and a walk with a strikeout over 4-1/3 scoreless innings. Leonardo Marin pitched in with two scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk.

It wasn't until Mitch Herold entered in the bottom of the ninth that the Legends were able to score, denying the Drive of their seventh shutout of the season. Brandon Barnes tallied a one-out triple, and scored as Kyle Miller followed with a single.

The Drive and Legends will play the rubber match of their three-game series Sunday with first pitch set for 2:05 PM. Right-hander Stolmy Pimentel (3-3, 2.09 ERA) takes the ball and heads to the mound for Greenville as Lexington counters with right-hander Ross Seaton (6-4, 2.44 ERA)

The Drive return home to Fluor Field on Thursday, June 11th when they host the Asheville Tourists for two games, followed by a three-game set with the Hot Rods. For more information on single-game tickets, ticket plans, group outings, luxury accommodations, visit www.GreenvilleDrive.com or call (864) 240-4500.

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South Atlantic League Stories from June 6, 2009


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