Can-Am New Jersey Jackals

Jackals Edge Elmira, 2-1, Take 2-0 Series Lead

Published on September 5, 2002 under Canadian American League (Can-Am)
New Jersey Jackals News Release


LITTLE FALLS, NJ-Mike Bertotti tossed eight strong innings and David Kennedy hit a two-run home run as the New Jersey Jackals defeated the Elmira Pioneers, 2-1, Thursday night at Yogi Berra Stadium in Game Two of the Northern League East Divisional Playoff Series. The Jackals now lead the best-of-five set two games to none and could wrap up the series with a victory in Game Three Friday night at Dunn Field in Elmira.

Bertotti, the 32 year-old former major league left-hander, shut out the Pioneers for 8 innings, but allowed a leadoff single to Ron Bush in the 9th inning before allowing a walk to Rafael Alvarez. Closer Ryan Halla came out of the bullpen to induce a double-play grounder from Michael Coleman before allowing an RBI single by Pedro Quero. After Brian Jones reached on an infield single, Halla closed out the game by retiring Cesar King on a sharply hit ground ball to third baseman Ryan Kane.

Bertotti finished the night with 5 strikeouts and 3 walks. He allowed one run on five hits. Halla earned his second save in as many nights in the post-season.

New Jersey pitching has limited Elmira to just one run scored in the first two games of this series. Elmira was shut out over the first 17 innings of this series. The Jackals have yet to trail at any point over the first two games.

The Jackals plated both of their runs, and three of their five hits, in the first inning off of hard-luck loser Jeff Andra. With two outs and Dave Callahan on at second base after a double, Kennedy unloaded a two-run home run to left field for all of the offense that Bertotti and Halla would need on the night. Andra tossed a complete game, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits while striking out 9 batters.

New Jersey's right-hander Aaron Myers (11-6 during the regular season) faces Jackson Crowther (6-8) in Game Three Friday night in Elmira.

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Canadian American League Stories from September 5, 2002


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