SAL1 Greenville Drive

Drive defeat Sand Gnats 2-1 in dramatic fashion

Published on July 20, 2006 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Greenville, SC - After being shutout for the first six innings, the Greenville Drive scored a run in the seventh and eighth innings to come from behind and defeat the Savannah Sand Gnats 2-1 Thursday night at West End Field. With the win the Drive improved to 19-9 in the second half of the regular season, three games behind Augusta for first place.

The Sand Gnats scored their only run in the top of the third off starter Michael Bowden due in part to a key fielding error by newcomer Aaron Bates. Alex Nunez led off the inning hitting a sharp one hopper to Bates at first, however the ball smacked off his glove, allowing Nunez to reach on an error and advance to second. Consecutive groundouts by Ofilio Castro and Dee Brown scored Nunez.

Savannah starter John Lannan held the Drive in check for the first six innings of the game, but was replaced by David Trahan at the start of the bottom of the seventh. Greenville finally pushed through for a run to tie the game at 1-1. Luis Soto led off with a walk and two batters later Tony Granadillo was hit by a pitch to put runners at first and second with one out. Christian Lara continued to swing a hot stick as he singled to left, scoring Soto. The Drive could have done more damage as they had the bases loaded with one out, however Dominic Ramos grounded into an inning-ending double play.

The Drive struck again in the bottom of the eighth for the eventual game winning run. With one out Mark Wagner and Bates hit back-to-back singles, allowing Wagner to advance to third. A fielder's choice by Soto scored Wagner, giving Greenville the lead for good.

Jason Blackey came on in the top of the ninth and shut the door on the ‘Gnats to pickup his fourth save on the season. Kyle Fernandes earned his third win of 2006, tossing 3.0 scoreless innings in relief, allowing three hits while striking out three.

The Drive and Sand Gnats continue their four-game series Friday night at West End Field with first pitch set for 7:05 PM. Left-hander Ryan Phillips will toe the rubber for Greenville as Savannah counters with lefty Gene Yost. Friday will feature fireworks at the conclusion of the game.

Tickets to all Drive home games can be purchased by calling the Drive Ticket Office at 864-240-4528 or online at www.GreenvilleDrive.com.

NOTES: Christian Lara was the only Drive batter with multiple hits, going 2-for-3...IF Aaron Bates was promoted earlier in the day from Lowell as IF Logan Sorensen was released from the Red Sox organization...Attendance was 5347

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South Atlantic League Stories from July 20, 2006


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