AtL Somerset Patriots

Newark Bears Outlast Patriots in 10 Innings

Published on May 9, 2003 under Atlantic League (AtL)
Somerset Patriots News Release


Bridgewater, NJ - The Newark Bears defeated the Somerset Patriots 8-7 in ten innings in front of 5,425 fans at Commerce Bank Ballpark on Friday evening. Bears first baseman Tom Hage hit a game-winning single in the top of the tenth inning to score third baseman Paul Esposito, who singled to lead off the inning.

The Patriots rallied with three runs in the bottom of the ninth inning to tie the Bears 7-7. The inning began with an infield single by designated hitter Greg Blosser and was highlighted by a two-run double by third baseman Greg Nettles.

The Bears jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning. Second baseman Jack Santora doubled and moved to third on a single by shortstop Eddy Martinez. Santora came around to score on a sacrifice fly by Hage. Martinez stole second base and scored on an RBI single by catcher Jay LaFlair.

Newark added another run in the top of the third inning when left fielder Danny Clyburn doubled and scored on an error by Patriots first baseman Matt Dryer.

Somerset answered with three runs in the bottom of the third inning. Shortstop Eric Martins and catcher Tom McGee hit back-to-back singles and right fielder Marcus Knight followed with an RBI single to score Martins. Second baseman Emiliano Escandon followed with an RBI double and center fielder Michael Warner drove in a run on a ground out that tied the game 3-3.

Newark regained the lead with three runs in the top of the fifth inning. Hage singled and moved to second when LaFlair drew a walk. Designated hitter Rickey Henderson followed with a walk to load the bases. Right fielder Wil Quintana hit a two-run double to score Hage and LaFlair and moved Henderson to third base. Center fielder Al Benjamin was intentionally walked and Santora drew a bases loaded walk to score Henderson and make the score 6-3.

The Patriots answered with a run in the bottom of the fifth inning on a solo home run by Escandon (1) to close within two runs of the Bears. Escandon finished with a 2 for 5 performance with two RBI in the game.

Henderson added a run on a sacrifice fly in the top of the ninth inning to give the Bears a 7-4 lead. Henderson finished the game 1 for 2 with a run and an RBI. Bears reliever Alberto Castillo (1-0) picked up the win, allowing three runs on three hits in an inning pitched. Patriots reliever Scott Aldred (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing two runs on two hits in three innings pitched. Damon Ponce DeLeon picked up the save (1).

The Somerset Patriots 2003 Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Saturday against future Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson and the Newark Bears. Saturday's game also includes Route 202 Fireplace and BBQ Shirt Off Our Back Night. Great seats are still available by calling (908) 252-0700, by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

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Atlantic League Stories from May 9, 2003


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