A Great Eight Lifts Ducks over Skeeters
Published on July 1, 2016 under Atlantic League (AtL)
Long Island Ducks News Release
(Central Islip, N.Y.) - The Long Island Ducks defeated the Sugar Land Skeeters 8-4 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
The Skeeters took a 2-0 lead in the first inning on a two-out, two-run single by Ricky Hague off Ducks starter Mark Blackmar. It remained that way until the top of the seventh when a two-out, two-run home run by Wilfredo Rodriguez increased Sugar Land's advantage to four.
The Ducks responded with eight runs in the bottom of the seventh to take an 8-4 lead. Bases loaded walks to Matt Wessinger and Anthony Vega, RBI fielder's choices from Fehlandt Lentini and Cody Puckett, an RBI single by Delta Cleary Jr. and a two-run triple by Ruben Gotay highlighted the inning.
Blackmar (6-2) earned the win, tossing seven innings, allowing four runs on seven hits while striking out four. Skeeters reliever Andrew Johnston (5-1) suffered the loss, giving up four runs (two earned) on two hits in one inning. Gallagher did not factor into the decision but pitched six scoreless innings, yielding five hits and two walks with nine strikeouts.
Eight of the nine Ducks batters earned hits in the game. Vega led the Flock with two hits, while Gotay drove in two runs.
The Ducks and Skeeters continue their three-game set on Saturday night. Game time is set for 6:35 p.m. with the Bethpage Ballpark gates opening at 5:35 (5:20 for full season ticket holders). Following the game, all fans in attendance will be treated to a Grucci Fireworks Extravaganza, presented by The Rinx at Hidden Pond Park. Ducks staff members will also be handing out coupons for $10 off a purchase of $50 or more at Dick's Sporting Goods to fans as they exit the ballpark following the fireworks show. Right-hander John Brownell (4-3, 3.11 ERA) takes the mound for the Ducks against Skeeters lefty Aaron Thompson (3-1, 3.60 ERA).
Atlantic League Stories from July 1, 2016
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- Skeeters Take Tough Loss To Blue Crabs In 15 Inning Game - Sugar Land Space Cowboys
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