SAL1 Greenville Drive

Drive Drop First Road Game in Heartbreaking Fashion, 4-3

Published on April 15, 2011 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Savannah, GA - For a moment it appeared as if the Drive (6-3) would have enough in them to erase a four-run hole they dug themselves early. Trailing 4-3 with one out in the top of the ninth, Greenville loaded the bases against the Savannah Sand Gnats (3-5), only to see their hopes dashed as closer Josh Edgin struckout both Carson Blair and Miles Head to end the game.

The Drive now hit the road for their first road trip of the season, beginning with a four-game set at Historic Grayson Stadium versus the Savannah Sand Gnats. Right-hander Brandon Workman (0-0, 0.00 ERA) takes to the mound for Greenville in the opening game.

Making his second professional start, 2nd round pick Brandon Workman (0-1) found himself down 3-0 after the game's first frame. Alonzo Harris, the Sand Gnats first batter, leadoff with a homer on a 3-1 pitch, and things didn't get much better from their for the former Texas Longhorn. Following a walk to Robbie Shields, Cory Vaughn provided the second long ball of the inning.

Savannah extended their lead to 4-0 in the bottom of the third, as Harris was the instigator once again. He dropped down a bunt single, stole second and advanced to third on a wild pitch. With no outs, Shields lifted a fly ball to rightfield that easily scored the speedster.

Following Brandon Jacobs' one-out double in the top of the second, the Drive lacked an offensive spark with Bryce Brentz getting the night off. It wasn't until the top of the sixth that Greenville tallied another hit, but they also broke-up Savannah's bid at a shutout. Jason Thompson and Felix Sanchez each singled, and then with two outs, Lucas LeBlanc added an RBI-single.

Greenville's attempt at a comeback bid carried over into the top of the seventh against reliever Guillaume Leduc. Head greeted the right-hander by smacking a double to right, and then advancing to third on Jacobs' single, his second hit of the night.

An Auburn commit to play running back on the Tigers' football team, Jacobs flashed his speed as he swiped second, drawing an errant throw from catcher Alberto Cordero, allowing Head to cross home. Sean Coyle's groundout pulled the Drive within a run.

Drive reliever Hunter Cervenka kept the Drive in the game, tossing 4.0 scoreless innings in relief, allowing two hits and two base on balls, while fanning one. The lefty retired the final seven batters he faced.

The Drive and Sand Gnats continue their four-game series tomorrow evening with first pitch set for 6:05 PM from Historic Grayson Stadium. A pair of right-handers will duel it out on the hill, as Greenville sends Miguel Celestino (0-0, 1.80 ERA) to the bump, while Savannah counters with Erik Goeddel (0-1, 9.00 ERA).

Following the nine-game road trip that includes a rematch with the RiverDogs in Charleston, and an off day, the Drive return home to Greenville on Monday, April 25th. For more information regarding single-game tickets, luxury accommodations, group outings, and ticket plan packages call (864) 240-4500 or visit www.GreenvilleDrive.com.

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South Atlantic League Stories from April 15, 2011


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