SAL1 Greenville Drive

Drive Jolt Power, 8-3, in Series Opener

Published on May 17, 2012 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Greenville, SC - With an offensive outburst that saw all nine batters in the lineup record a hit, the Drive (19-20) continued their surge during the month of May with an 8-3 victory over the West Virginia Power (13-27). Thursday was Greenville's 10th win this month, already surpassing their total of nine for the season's first month.

The Drive wasted little time in getting on the scoreboard, providing Yeiper Castillo (4-0) with a four-run lead to work with after two innings. Greenville batted around in the second, which was kick started by an RBI-triple by Matt Marquis. Two batters later Nick Natoli laced an RBI-double, and Garin Cecchini added a two-run single.

Trailing 5-0, the Power rattled Castillo in the top of the fifth for three runs - only one of which was earned. It was the only blemish on Castillo's night as his record remained perfect. The right-hander allowed four hits and a walk during his 6.0 inning outing.

Greenville added an insurance run in the bottom of the seventh on Drew Turocy's sacrifice fly, before scoring twice more in the bottom of the eighth to regain their five-run advantage. Jordan Weems began the inning with his second hit of the night, his first multi-hit game of the season, and later scored on Keury De la Cruz's ground-rule double. Boss Moanaroa's sacrifice fly accounted for the Drive's final run.

Three different relievers - right-handers Mike McCarthy, Matty Ott, and Charle Rosario - each tossed a scoreless inning out of the bullpen to preserve the victory. Jose Garcia paced the Drive offense reaching base safely in all five plate appearances, tallying three hits and drawing two walks.

The Drive will look to match their longest winning streak of 2012 at four games with a win on Friday, when they host the Power again at 7:05 PM. Left-hander Henry Owens (3-1, 4.91 ERA), who has not allowed a run over his last three starts (15.0 innings pitch) will toe the slab for Greenville. West Virginia will counter with a lefty of their own, Zack Dodson (1-3, 4.98 ERA).

Following Friday's contest, fans will be treated to a fireworks extravaganza, set to the hits of today's country music stars. For more information, or to purchase single-game tickets, group outings or luxury accommodations, please call (864) 240-4500 or log onto GreenvilleDrive.com.

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South Atlantic League Stories from May 17, 2012


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