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SAL1 Greenville Drive

Drive Drop Series Opener with Braves, 4-2, in 10 Innings

May 15, 2009 - South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Greenville, SC - The Drive saw their three-game winning streak snapped as the visiting Rome Braves picked up a 4-2 win in 10 innings Friday night, extending their own win streak to three games.

With the two teams knotted at two runs apiece, Luis Sumoza - former Sox farmhand - belted 2-1 offering from Yeiper Castillo (0-3) for a two-run homer, the eventual game-winner. The Drive had their opportunity to tie the game in the home half of the inning when Anthony Rizzo lifted a Jaye Chapman pitch to deep right-center. However, it was caught just shy of the wall.

After both teams traded goose eggs, the Drive broke the scoreless tie in the bottom of the fifth. David Mailman, Oscar Tejeda, and Ryan Lavarnway all began the inning by reaching base, setting up Will Middlebrook's run-scoring fielder's choice. Two batters later, Ryan Dent added a sacrifice fly.

Castillo, who entered the game in the top of the sixth, was able to retire the first six batters he faced, including striking out the side in the seventh, before the baby Braves finally broke through for two runs, tying the game in the top of the eighth. Chris Shehan collected an RBI-single Sumoza laced a run-scoring double.

Caleb Clay deserved better for the Drive, earning a no-decision in his third start of 2009 after beginning the season out of the bullpen. The right-hander from Alabama tossed 5.0 shutout innings, limited the Braves to a pair of hits and walks, while fanning three.

Although he recorded just two outs, Angelo Paulino (1-0) earned the win for the Braves.

The Drive and Braves continue their four-game series Saturday night at Fluor Field with first pitch set for 7:05 PM. Right-hander Brock Huntzinger will toe the rubber for Greenville as Rome counters with a righty of their own, J.J. Hoover.

Saturday is also Armed Forces Night at Fluor Field, in which the Drive will pay respect to all branches of the military which includes a special pre-game ceremony. Single-game tickets, group outings, and luxury accommodations can be purchased by calling (864) 240-4500 or visit www.GreenvilleDrive.com for more information.

NOTES: Attendance was 5,820

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