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EL Reading Fightin Phils

Five Relievers Combine for Shutout as Reading Ends Five-Game Skid

August 30, 2024 - Eastern League (EL)
Reading Fightin Phils News Release


(Bridgewater, NJ) - The Reading Fightin Phils (22-33; 53-70) snapped their five-game losing streak with a 2-0 victory over the Somerset Patriots (32-21; 64-58) on Friday night at TD Bank Ballpark. This win also puts Somerset's lead in the week's series at 3-1.

The game stayed scoreless until the top of the seventh inning. Josh Breaux led off with a single off Ben Shields (L, 2-2) but was soon replaced by Marcus Lee Sang, who reached on a fielder's choice. Robert Moore walked, and Zach Arnold singled to load the bases with one out. Andrick Nava hit into another fielder's choice, keeping the game tied. But with two outs, Cade Fergus came through with a clutch two-run single to left field, giving Reading a 2-0 lead that they would not relinquish.

It was a standout night for Reading's bullpen, which was stellar across the board. Carlos Francisco started things off with two scoreless innings, allowing just one hit. Nelson L. Alvarez followed with two shutout innings and three strikeouts. Andrew Baker (W, 4-2) added four strikeouts in his two scoreless frames. Andrew Walling then struck out four more in his two shutout innings. Finally, Tommy McCollum (S, 10) closed things out with a 1-2-3 ninth inning, striking out one to secure the win.

In total, Reading's pitchers struck out 13 Somerset batters. This win marks Reading's eighth shutout of the season, their highest total since 2022 when they had 11. McCollum's save was his 10th of the season, making him the first R-Phil with double-digit saves since Brian Marconi had 18 in 2022. Additionally, Lee Sang stole a career-high three bases in the game. It's the second time this season a Fightin Phil has stolen three bases in a game, with Gabriel Rincones Jr. having achieved the feat previously on July 23 at New Hampshire.

The Fightin Phils return to the field Saturday against the Somerset Patriots, Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, at 6:35 p.m. RHP Moises Chace will be on the mound for Reading, and go opposite RHP Zach Messinger for Somerset. Pregame radio coverage is underway at 6:20 p.m. on the Reading Fightin Phils Radio Network. A video stream is available via MiLB TV or the Bally Live App.

The Fightin Phils return home from Tuesday, September 3, through Sunday, September 8, against the Erie SeaWolves, Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. On Tuesday, the first 1,000 fans will receive a Pride Night R-Phils Rainbow Pennant, presented by Kutztown University and LGBTQ+ Resource Center at Kutztown University. Wednesday is an Unused Ticket Game, thanks to Rip It Baseballtown Charities. Thursday is Tasting Festival on the Deck presented by Classic Harley-Davidson. Friday night features fireworks, thanks to Savage Auto Group. Saturday is a SpongeBob Celebration and Carpenter MEGA Blast Fireworks, sponsored by your local Kia Dealers. The home schedule finishes Sunday with Reading Truck MEGA Blast Fireworks, thanks to Penske.

To buy tickets, call 610-370-BALL, go to rphils.com/tickets, or in person at the Customers Bank Ticket Office. The Fightin Phils Brentwood Industries Team Store is open both in-person and online 24/7 at rphils.com/shop.

The 2024 R-Phils season is presented by Pepsi. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter @ReadingFightins, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Instagram @Fightins.

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Eastern League Stories from August 30, 2024


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