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Greenville Drive

Drive Suffer 3-2 Walk-Off Loss to Braves

June 26, 2012 - South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Rome, GA - Making his Drive (37-39, 3-3) debut after being signed away from the independent leagues, reliever Nate Striz probably wished his first appearance ended differently. Entering in the bottom of the ninth with the score knotted 2-2, allowed three consecutive hitters to reach safely with Cory Brownsten delivering a walk-off single to give the Rome Braves (23-53, 4-2) a 3-2 victory.

It appeared as if the second game of the series would be headed to extra innings, as Striz (0-1) struckout the very first two batters he faced - Robby Hefflinger and William Beckwith. But after issuing a walk to Chase Anselment, Brandon Drury singled, setting up Brownsten's game-winning base hit.

For the first time in five games, Greenville struck for the first runs, plating a pair in the top of the fourth. Garin Cecchin drew a leadoff walk and then added to his team-leading stolen base total, swiping his 24th bag of the season before scoring on Henry Ramos' single. Cody Koback eventually knocked in Ramos with a two-out single.

After three scoreless innings from starting pitcher Noe Ramirez, the Drive saw their two-run advantage quickly disappear in the home half of the fourth. Hefflinger led off with a solo home run against Ramirez and Drury collected a sacrifice fly to tie the game.

Backed by strong bullpens from both Rome and Greenville, the game remained tied until the final inning. Matty Otty scattered two hits over 2.0 scoreless innings for the Drive, while David Peterson (1-0) finished the game for the Braves to earn the victory.

Following their two-run fourth, the Greenville offense was neutralized over their final five at bats. The Drive managed just three more hits, all in separate innings, with only runner getting into scoring position.

The Drive and Braves continue their four-game series on Wednesday, with first pitch set for 7:05 PM from State Mutual Stadium. Right-hander Jason Garcia (2-4, 6.53 ERA) will toe the rubber for Greenville, looking to halt the three-game skid, while Rome counters with right-hander Jarrett Miller (4-1, 4.08 ERA).

The Drive return home to Fluor Field on the Fourth of July, beginning a four-game series with these same Rome Braves. First pitch for Independence Day is set for a special 6:05 PM start time, as fans can remain at the ballpark to watch the City of Greenville's spectacular fireworks display as part of the Red, White and Blue Festival. For more information regarding tickets, call (864) 240-4500 or log onto GreenvilleDrive.com.

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South Atlantic League Stories from June 26, 2012


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