Rays 'Take One for the Team' in Win
July 19, 2003 - Southern League (SL1)
Orlando Rays News Release
Greenville, S.C.â Dan Grummitt was hit by a pitch with the bass loaded in the top of the ninth, forcing in pinch runner Graig Merritt with the go-ahead run as the Orlando Rays rallied past the Greenville Braves 5-4 at Greenville Municipal Stadium Saturday.
Grummitt was the third O-Ray to be hit by a pitch on the night, with catcher Danny Massiatte getting hit in the head to lead off the ninth, forcing Massiatte from the game. Outfielder Jonny Gomes was hit by a pitch to lead off the 7th inning and worked his way around the basepaths to score the game-tying run. Grummitt was hit by a pitch for the 21st time this season, most in the Southern League, while Gomes was plunked for the 12th time, tying Jason Dubois (West Tennessee) for second-most in the league.
Orlando's win was eerily similar to Greenville's win last night, when the Braves managed to load the bases in the ninth despite not picking up a single hit before Jason Fitzgerald drew a bases-loaded walk to win the game. In Saturday's win Orlando loaded the bases on Massiatte's hit by pitch, an intentional walk to Jesus Feliciano and a walk by Dan DeMent before Grummitt was plunked by Braves closer Billy Sylvester (1-2).
Orlando jumped to an early 3-0 lead after third baseman Juan Salas launched a first-inning three run homer over the wall in right field, scoring Feliciano and DeMent. The Braves answered back in the second when the Braves strung together three run-scoring singles, knotting the game at 3-3.
Feliciano, DeMent and Salas led the Rays with two hits apiece. Relief pitcher John Benedetti (4-5) picked up the win in relief after tossing two scoreless innings, allowing one hit and one walk while striking out three. Josh Parker (SV, 3) picked up the save with a perfect ninth.
The Rays and G-Braves continue their four-game series tomorrow at 5:15, with Orlando RHP Chad Gaudin (1-0, 0.00) making his second AA start and first since perfect game Tuesday. Greenville counters with right-hander Adam Wainwright (5-7, 3.95).
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Southern League Stories from July 19, 2003
- Smokies Hammer Barons Bullpen in 10-2 Win - Knoxville Smokies
- Rays Win in Ninth - Mississippi Braves
- Rays 'Take One for the Team' in Win - Orlando Rays
- Suns hold off Mudcats, 3-2 - Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
- Samford Pitcher Signed from White Sox Tryout - Birmingham Barons
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