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Greenville Drive

Drive Blank ‘Jackets, 7-0, Behind Ranaudo's Arm and Brentz's Bat

April 9, 2011 - South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Greenville, SC - Behind a solid pitching performance from the duo of Anthony Ranaudo and Keith Couch, as well as a torrid offensive outburst, the Drive disposed of the Augusta GreenJackets, 7-0, Saturday night at Fluor Field. Greenville improved to 2-1 in the early going of 2011, looking to pick-up a series victory in Sunday's finale.

Ranaudo (1-0) made his professional debut for the Red Sox organization with a 5.0 inning gem. The 39th overall selection in the 2010 First-Year Player Draft out of LSU scattered 3 hits over his 74 pitch performance and struck out 4 while walking one batter and hitting another. He threw a good fastball topping out at 95 MPH, and featured a devastating curveball that baffled the Greenjackets.

The Drive started strong again scoring in the 1st inning after Bryce Brentz hit his first triple of the night. He was driven home with a single of the bat of first baseman Miles Head. Brentz had another triple in the 3rd inning but could not be scored with 2 outs.

The 36th overall pick in last year's draft, Brentz ended the night 3-for-4 with two triples, a double, two runs scored and an RBI.

The other standout offensive performer was from third baseman James Kang making his Drive debut. Kang went 2-for-3 with a walk. He scored twice and hit a double to lead off the 5th inning when the Drive blew the game open.

Four base hits in a row from Kang and the top of the order drove Augusta's Austin Fleet from the game. Kang's double was followed by speedster Felix Sanchez's bunt single, then they both scored on Lucas LeBlanc's triple. LeBlanc scored on a double by Bryce Brentz who capped off his night with his third extra base hit.

Ranaudo pitched great in his Drive debut and Keith Couch who came into replace him kept the Greenjackets lineup at bay. Couch pitched 4 scoreless innings allowing only one hit and striking out five en route to earning his first save.

The Drive and GreenJackets conclude the opening series of the 2011 season, with first pitch set for 4:05 PM from Fluor Field. Brandon Workman, the 2nd round draft choice of the Red Sox will take the mound tomorrow for his professional debut. Augusta counters with left-hander Edwin Escobar.

Following the game, kids 12 and under will have the opportunity to run the bases. In addition, it's only fitting as the Drive host the GreenJackets, that live look-ins of the final round of the Masters will be featured on the DriveVision video board. For more information regarding single-game tickets, group outings, luxury accommodations, and ticket plan packages call (864) 240-4500 or visit www.GreenvilleDrive.com.

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