Rockers Rain on Ducks' Opening Day Parade
April 28, 2023 - Atlantic League (AtL)
Long Island Ducks News Release
(High Point, N.C.) - The Long Island Ducks were defeated by the High Point Rockers 3-2 on Friday night in the opening game of the 2023 season at Truist Point.
Boog Powell gave the Ducks a 1-0 lead on the fourth pitch of the game, crushing a solo home run to right field off Rockers starter Craig Stem. High Point tied the game in the bottom of the inning when Michael Russell doubled, advance to third on John Nogowski's single and scored on a wild pitch by Ducks starter Brett Kennedy.
Following a 55-minute rain delay, Sam Travis put the Ducks back in front with an RBI triple in the third, but Zander Wiel's run-scoring fielder's choice in the bottom of the inning tied the game back up. High Point took a 3-2 lead in the fourth on a solo homer to left field by Ben Aklinski. It stayed that way through a 38-minute rain delay and the remainder of the game despite threats from both sides on offense.
Neither starter factored into the decision. Kennedy pitched one inning, allowing a run on two hits while striking out three, while Stem lasted two innings, conceding a run on two hits and a walk with two strikeouts. Bryce Hensley (1-0) picked up the win after pitching two innings of one-run ball, allowing three hits. Chris Cepeda (0-1) took the loss, surrendering two runs on three hits and three walks in two and one-third innings. Ryan Dull picked up his first save of the season with a 1-2-3 ninth inning.
Powell led the Flock offensively with three hits and a walk. Daniel Murphy added three hits and a run, while Travis ended up with two extra-base hits and an RBI.
The Ducks and Rockers continue their three-game season-opening series on Saturday night. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. at Truist Point. Fans can follow all the action live on Flo Baseball. Left-hander Ian Clarkin (2021: 3-7, 7.86) takes the mound for the Ducks against Rockers southpaw Ben Braymer (2022: 2-1, 6.75).
Long Island returns home on Tuesday, May 2, for Opening Night at Fairfield Properties Ballpark. The Ducks will host the Staten Island FerryHawks at 6:35 p.m., with gates opening at 5:35 (5:20 for full season ticket holders). The first 1,500 fans in attendance will receive Ducks Reversible Bucket Hats, courtesy of P.C. Richard and Son. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 6:15 to enjoy pregame team introductions. Tickets for the game, and all Ducks games, are available by visiting the Fairfield Properties Ballpark box office, calling (631) 940-TIXX.
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Atlantic League Stories from April 28, 2023
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