SL1 Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Pitching Duel Ends in Ten Inning, 3-1 Loss for Suns

Published on June 21, 2013 under Southern League (SL1)
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp News Release


JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Jay Jackson posted arguably his strongest outing of the 2013 season but the Jacksonville Suns (2-1, 36-34) fell in ten innings to the Huntsville Stars, losing by a final of 3-1 at Bragan Field.

Tied 1-1 after nine innings, the Stars scored the go-ahead run against Michael Brady (1-2) on a suicide squeeze bunt by Hector Gomez in the top of the tenth to take a 2-1 lead. Pinch-hitter Shawn Zarraga followed with an RBI double to push the lead to 3-1 before Santo Manzanillo pitched a scoreless bottom half for his first save.

Suns manager Andy Barkett was ejected in the bottom of the seventh following a close play at first that prevented Jacksonville from taking a 2-1 lead itself. With a run already in on a Huntsville error, Noah Perio came to the plate with men on second and third and hit a ground ball into the hole at short. Perio was called out at first, and Barkett argued the call and was eventually thrown out.

"I thought Noah beat it out," Barkett said following the game. "I thought he did a great job of putting the ball in play right there with two strikes. The shortstop made a great play...I thought [the umpire] blew the call."

The inning represented one of the few chances for the Suns against Stars starter Taylor Jungmann, who limited Jacksonville to just two hits and no earned runs over seven innings. He left with a no-decision, however, as Suns hurler Jay Jackson matched him with seven strong innings of one-run ball. Jackson allowed a run in the first inning and then did not allow a base runner for the remainder of his start, retiring the final 19 hitters he faced.

"It was a well pitched game," Barkett said. "It was a fun game to watch. Jay and the kid from Huntsville both really threw the ball well. That's why I got a little frustrated [on the call at first] because I really wanted that run.

Jacksonville will make its second attempt at a series victory on Saturday behind right-hander Robert Morey (2-4, 5.28). Huntsville, meanwhile, will send right-hander Brooks Hall to the mound in game four of the five-game series.. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. E.T.

Suns fans can listen to Saturday's game on the Suns Baseball Network, 94.1 WSOS-FM or through jaxsuns.com, MiLB.com or the Suns iPhone or Android app, beginning at 6:50 p.m. E.T. with the UF Health Suns Pre-Game Show.

Saturday at Bragan Field is Jaxpos Night with Randy Johnson Bobblehead Giveaway, Jaxpos Powder Blue Jersey Auction, Ronald McDonald Appearance & Steak Me out to the Ballgame. The Suns will be wearing Powder Blue Jaxpos Jerseys during the game as the team salutes the Jaxpos. These jerseys will be available for charity auction benefiting The Will to Live Foundation and fans can win the jersey off of the back of their favorite player.

Also the first 3,000 fans will get a Randy Johnson Bobblehead, courtesy of Hyatt Regency Jacksonville RiverFront, CBS47 & 96.9 The Eagle. Plus see former Jaxpos manager Tommy Thompson and former Jaxpos & Major League pitcher John Trautwein. Don't miss a special appearance from Ronald McDonald. Also enjoy Steak Me Out to the Ballgame. Fans can get a tender 8 oz. bacon-wrapped filet mignon, baked potato, salad, non-alcoholic beverage and general admission to the game for only $25.




Southern League Stories from June 21, 2013


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