SAL1 Greenville Drive

Mailman Delivers Eighth Inning Homer for 4-3 Drive Victory

Published on August 11, 2008 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Greenville, SC - Through the first four months of the season, Drive outfielder failed to display much power as he totaled just three homers. But in 10 August contests he has belted three homers, including a two-run shot in the bottom of the eight Monday night to propel Greenville (62-57, 22-27) to a 4-3 come-from-behind victory over the Lexington Legends (39-79, 18-31).

The Drive found themselves down early as the Legends needed just one hit to plate a pair of runs in the top of the first. Felix Doubront struggled to find the strike zone as he walked three in the frame, including a bases loaded free pass to Kyle Miller. Max Sapp added a sacrifice fly for the Legends second run.

Experiencing issues with the mound and a high pitch count, Doubront lasted just 4.0 innings but fanned five and only allowed one more baserunner in his final three innings before being relieved by Jose Alvarez (7-8). Adding 4.0 innings in relief, Alvarez allowed a run on Jason Fixler's RBI-single in the sixth before shutting down the Legends so that the Drive could mount their comeback.

The first four Greenville batters all reached base to start the seventh, including an RBI-single by Carlos Fernandez, before Lexington's JT Tilghman was lifted for Fernando Abad (1-6) with no outs. Ryan Kalish cut the Drive's deficit to a run with a sacrifice fly.

The momentum swung in the Drive's favor in the eighth as David Marks reached base by being hit by a pitch, setting up Mailman's heroic homer which just squeaked inside the right-field foul pole. It was the 19-year-old's second two-run homer in as many days.

Having blown chances in his last two save opportunities, Felix Ventura got back on track, tossing a perfect ninth to earn his 17th save of the season.

Lost in the shuffle for the Legends was the quality start turned in by Anthony Bello. The southpaw tossed 5.2 scoreless innings, scattering five hits and three walks while fanning six in earning a no-decision.

The Drive and Legends continue their four-game series Tuesday night with first pitch set for 7:05 PM. Left-hander Jose Capellan will take the mound for Greenville as Lexington counters with right-hander Luis Pardo

With a crowd of 4,002 fans, the Drive inched closer to their millionth fan as the total is now 967,695 in 196 games at Fluor Field. In each game until the milestone mark is reached one fan will be selected for the chance to be the honorary millionth fan. For more information regarding single-game tickets, ticket plans, group outings and 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 August 11, 2008


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