AtL Somerset Patriots

Patriots top Road Warriors on Rodriguez's record breaking night

Published on September 10, 2004 under Atlantic League (AtL)
Somerset Patriots News Release


Bridgewater, NJ - The Somerset Patriots defeated the Pennsylvania Road Warriors 5-1 before 7,327 fans at Commerce Bank Ballpark on Friday evening.

The Patriots got on the board for a 2-0 lead in the first inning when shortstop Jhonny Perez singled and came home on first baseman Victor Rodriguez's two-run home run. With his 23rd home run of the season, Rodriguez broke teammate DaRond Stovall's single season franchise record set in 2001. Rodriguez's two RBI on the home run also broke Michael Warner's record for most RBI in a season set in 2001.

Pennsylvania cut the lead in half with a run in the seventh inning. Designated hitter Rob Cafiero's fielder's choice with the bases loaded brought in first baseman Brady Williams, who reached on a single.

Somerset added three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning. Perez singled and scored on second baseman Emiliano Escandon's RBI double. Rodriguez followed with his second two run home run (24) of the game to give the Patriots a 5-1 lead.

Patriots starter Cam Smith (7-4) picked up the win, allowing an earned run on three hits and eight strikeouts in 6.1 innings pitched. Pennsylvania starter Edisbel Benetiz (1-1) suffered the loss, allowing two earned runs while striking out ten batters.

The Somerset Patriots welcomed Donald Trump to the ballpark for the game. Trump's helicopter landed in center field before the game as the Patriots declared the evening Donald Trump Night. Trump extended his best wishes to the Patriots in the team's attempt to repeat as champions. He was presented with a Patriots personalized jersey, a team jacket, and then threw out a ceremonial first pitch.

The 2004 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game against the Pennsylvania Road Warriors on Saturday evening. Saturday's game includes Flashlights for the first 2,000 fans presented by The Somerset County Department of Health and the Ballpark Election presented by Freedoms Answer. 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.

Check out the Somerset Patriots Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



Atlantic League Stories from September 10, 2004


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central