SAL1 Greenville Drive

Six-Run Sixth Cripples Drive in 9-5 Loss

Published on May 25, 2008 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Greenville Drive News Release


Greenville, SC - Walks can be a team's demise. And that was never more evident than Sunday night as the Savannah Sand Gnats (21-29) drew four walks in a six-run sixth inning en route to a 9-5 victory over the Drive (26-25) at Fluor Field.

The sign that there is light at the end of the tunnel has been the play of newcomer Jered Stanley. After hitting a homer in his Drive debut last night, the leftfielder added two more round-trippers Sunday, knocking in four of Greenville's five runs.

Stanley's first shot led off the bottom of the fourth, tying the game momentarily at 2-2. However, Savannah sent 11 batters to the plate to pull away in the sixth as the Drive were forced to use three pitchers.

After starter Chris Province (3-3) surrendered consecutive singles, reliever Ryne Lawson entered. But after retiring the first batter he faced, Lawson ran into trouble as he allowed an RBI-single to Greg Veloz, followed by four straight walks - three of which came with the bases loaded.

Then it was Kyle Fernandes' turn. The Drive finally were able to get out of the inning as Fernandes struckout Carlos Guzman, but not before Richard Pena laced a two-run double.

Stanley tried to be the Drive's spark plug, adding his second homer - a three-run shot - in the bottom of the sixth. But it was not enough as the Sand Gnats held the Drive scoreless over the final three innings.

Despite surrendering four runs on six hits in 5.0 innings of work, Savannah starter Angel Calero (1-5) was able to earn his first victory of the season. Three Sand Gnats relievers - Edgar Ramirez, Brant Rustich, and Steven Cheney - combined on the final four innings, allowing a run on two hits.

The Drive and Sand Gnats continue their series Monday with first pitch set for 4:05 PM. A pair of southpaws will face-off as Jose Alvarez will head to the mound for Greenville and Savannah counters with Mike Antonini.

Fans will also have the opportunity to take part in an All-American Buffet in the 300 Picnic Plateau. For just $19, fans will get a ticket to the game and be able to feed their faces. If you already have a ticket, the All-American Buffet can be added for just $13.

Check out the Greenville Drive Statistics

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South Atlantic League Stories from May 25, 2008


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