Can-Am Brockton Rox

Hughes Blows Save as Rockland Scores Five in Eighth

Published on June 20, 2011 under Canadian American League (Can-Am)
Brockton Rox News Release


(Ramapo, N.Y. - June 20, 2011) - The Brockton Rox (14-10) squandered a three run lead in the eighth inning as the Rockland Boulders (8-13) charged back late, sending ten men to the plate and scoring five runs with two outs to take an 8-6 victory in the opener of a three game series Monday night at Provident Bank Park.

In the third frame, Brockton struck first, taking a 1-0 lead on the first of two RBI doubles by Chris Valencia and added to the tally on solo home runs by Keith Brachold and Ryan Royster in the fourth.

Trailing 4-0 heading into the sixth frame, the Boulders bats finally broke through against Julian Sampson on a three-run home run by Vic Buttler that cut the lead to one.

Sampson pitched well enough to win, but ended up with a no decision after lasting a season high seven and 2/3 innings, giving up four runs on six hits, while striking out four and walking two.

Royster widened the Rox lead in the eighth inning when he launched a second round-tripper to put Brockton ahead by three and remains alone on top of the league leader board with nine total home runs.

In the bottom half of the frame, things began to turn south for Brockton when Jermel Lomack opened the inning with a leadoff triple. Two strike outs later, Sampson gave way to Reid Jackson out of the bullpen when manager Bill Buckner decided to match up against the lefthanded hitting Buttler.

Buttler proceeded to walk, which made way for a second call to the bullpen, bringing on closer Travis Hughes. Hughes struggled, allowing the next five batters to reach in a five run rally that was highlighted by Cristobal Santana's RBI double and a go-ahead two-run single by Boulders newcomer Ray Stokes.

Rockland starter Casey Hodges (2-2) lasted through the eighth inning, which would be just long enough to earn the win. Hodges allowed six runs on 13 hits while walking and striking out one.

Adrian Martin (5) shut things down with a perfect ninth frame for his team leading fifth save.

Brachold's homer continued his hit streak as he has now collected a base knock in his last ten games, while homering in three straight. The Rox rightfielder has been on fire of late, earning Can-Am Player of the Week honors prior to the game.

The three game set continues Tuesday with a rematch of Thursday's pitchers duel between righthanders Mike Smith and Bobby Blevins. First pitch of the middle game is set for 7:05 p.m. with the series and roadtrip scheduled to conclude Wednedsay evening in Rockland County.

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Canadian American League Stories from June 20, 2011


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