SAL1 Greenville Drive

Drive's Comeback Falls Short, Lose 5-4, to RiverDogs

Published on May 29, 2009 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Greenville, SC - After falling behind 5-0 through four and a half innings, the Drive (24-23) attempted a comeback that would eventually fall short, falling 5-4 to the visiting Charleston RiverDogs (28-20) Friday night at Fluor Field.

The RiverDogs were able to capture a three-run lead after their first at bat as Fabian Williamson (3-2) experienced control issues. The southpaw issued four walks in the top of the first, two of which eventually came around to score on Melky Mesa's double. A Ryan Lavarnway passed ball led to Charleston's other run of the inning.

Four innings later the RiverDogs extended their lead with their final two runs, this time coming off Mike Lee. Dan Brewer led off the inning with a single, swiped his first of three stolen bases, and scored on David Adams' double. After a fly ball advanced Adams, Corban Joseph plated the second baseman with a single.

The home half of the fifth is when the Drive began their comeback. Following consecutive fly outs to start the inning, Ryan Dent, David Mailman, and Tim Federowicz recorded three straight singles with Federowicz knocking in Dent.

Greenville added another run an inning later as Ryan Lavarnway stroked his fifth home run of the season. Anthony Rizzo brought the Drive within a run in the bottom of the seventh with a two-out, two-run double.

In their final at bat, the Drive had the chance to tie the game, but left the tying run just 90 feet from home. The RiverDogs' ambidextrous pitcher Pat Venditte gave up a leadoff single to Mailman, who then advanced to second on Federowicz's groundout. Rizzo then struckout and Mailman then advanced to third on a passed ball before Venditte induced Pete Hissey into a game-ending fly out for his league-leading 14th save.

Hector Noesi evened his record to 2-2 despite allowing all four of Greenville's runs on seven hits and two walks, while fanning seven.

The Drive and RiverDogs continue their four-game series Saturday night with first pitch set for 7:05 PM. Greenville's starting pitcher has yet to be determined, while right-hander David Phelps will toe the rubber for Charleston.

Because it is the Red Sox Nation Celebration at Fluor Field during this home stand, the Red Sox' mascot, Wally the Green Monster, will be at the ballpark tomorrow to entertain fans. For more information on single-game tickets, ticket plans, group outings, luxury accommodations, visit www.GreenvilleDrive.com or call (864) 240-4500.

Check out the Greenville Drive Statistics

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South Atlantic League Stories from May 29, 2009


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