FSL1 Daytona Tortugas

Daytona outdueled in series opener 3-1

Published on June 23, 2005 under Florida State League (FSL1)
Daytona Tortugas News Release


DAYTONA BEACH, Fla-Thursday night's Eastern Division match up between the Daytona Cubs and St. Lucie Mets was a game that all baseball purists live for.

That is except for the purists who also are hoping to see the Cubs make a run for a second half title.

Marked by solid starting pitching from both sides and topped off with a few clutch homeruns, Game One of the three-game series later turned into a pitching duel between two bullpens in the final few frames.

But Daytona squandered several late opportunites to climb back into the contest, and the St. Lucie ‘pen gave up just one run in the final five innings, as the Mets hung on to win the series opener by a final of 3-1.

Cubs starter Lee Gwaltney (1-2) turned in another solid performance despite the lack of offensive support, as the righty logged six full innings of work and surrendered just two runs on four hits while striking out eight Mets batters.

The only runs Gwaltney gave up were a pair of solo homeruns, which included a first inning blast from first baseman Brett Harper, and a second inning shot off the bat of third baseman Shawn Bowman.

Mets starter Greg Ramirez was stellar in four innings of work, as he gave up just two hits and struck out six before he reached his short pitch count and handed the game over to his relievers.

The only bright spot offensively for Daytona was a standout performance from catcher Tony Richie, who went 4-for-4 with a single, two doubles, and a homerun to lead the charge.

With the loss the Cubs dropped to 1-1, as the Mets improved to an unblemished 2-0 in the second half.

The two teams will meet right back at historic Jackie Robinson Ballpark on Friday night, as Cubs lefty Yorkin Ferreras (0-0) will be making his first start of the season since joining the team from West Tenn. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m. EST.

Check out the Daytona Tortugas Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



Florida State League Stories from June 23, 2005


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central