Somerset gave up a seven run lead after putting eight runs on the board over the first four innings. Jeff Nettles hit a two run homer in the first inning, and second baseman Matt Hagen notched his twenty-fifth double of the season.

In every inning except the second and third, Newark put runs on the board to slowly catch up to Somerset. The Bears overcame the deficit and took the lead for the first time in the bottom of the ninth after a series of walks and base hits were enough to drive in the winning run. The Bears continue to improve their league leading team batting average after home runs by Andres Perez, Sandy Madera and Michael Hernandez.

Sandy Rleal closed the game for Newark after pitching for a solid three innings striking out three and allowing no earned runs. He recorded the win and improved his record to 2-2. Somerset’s Bret Prinz took his first loss of the season after walking Carl Everett, which plated Felix Martinez for the game-winning run.

Just five games into the second half of the season, both teams will go into tomorrow’s meeting with a record of 3-2.

The Newark Bears continue their three game series at home against the Somerset Patriots on Wednesday and a special day game at 11:05am on Thursday. Tickets for both games are available by calling 1-888-85-BEARS or by visiting www.newarkbears.com. The Bears have partnered with Habitat for Humanity this week, and a portion of all tickets sales will be donated to Habitat. Visit Bears & Eagles Riverfront stadium and support your Newark Bears as well as a great cause.

If you can’t make the game, make sure to check out Emmy Award winning broadcaster Spencer Ross who will be calling play by play on Newark Bears Internet Radio in partnership with Newark Radio Series. Visit http://wm5.spacialnet.com/NewarkRadionetDC114643 at game time to tune in.

The Patriots struck first in this game and took a 2-0 lead in the 2nd inning. With the bases loaded, Riversharks’ starter Tom Davey walked Somerset’s Travis Anderson, allowing Teuris Olivares to score. Two batters later, Mike Rodriguez picked up his 23rd RBI of the season when his groundout to 2nd base drove home Jason Belcher.

The Sharks answered back in the bottom of the 3rd inning and tied the game at 2-2. With two runners in scoring position, designated hitter Jose Leon crushed a line drive to right field, plating Wayne Lydon and Jon Knott.

After three consecutive scoreless innings, Somerset once again broke the game open in the 7th inning. An RBI single by Sean Smith scored Anderson, and gave the visitors a one run lead. Smith then stole second base and scored when a ground ball trickled through the legs of Camden’s Bryant Nelson, making the score 4-2.

The Patriots added to their lead in the 8th inning, as Riversharks reliever Michael Flannery struggled to find command of his pitches. After hitting two batters and loading the bases, Flannery surrendered a walk to Matt Hagen, bringing Anderson around to score, and giving Somerset a 5-2 lead.

Somerset added an insurance run in the top of the 9th inning, courtesy of an RBI double by Anderson. With a 6-2 lead, the Patriots put the game in the hands of closer Brian Henderson, who retired the side in order, and secured the win for the visitors.

The Riversharks will be back in action on Tuesday night at 7:05pm, when they will welcome the Bridgeport Bluefish to town for a three game series. Limited seating for the game is still available. For more information, or to purchase tickets visit www.riversharks.com.

Box score

The Automated ScoreBook

Somerset Patriots at Camden

Jul 12, 2009 at Camden NJ (Campbell’s Field)

Somerset Patriots 6 (3-1)

Player                    AB  R  H RBI BB SO PO  A LOB

——————————————————

Rodriquez, M rf……….  5  0  1  1   0  0  4  0   2

Smith, S cf…………..  4  1  1  1   0  1  5  0   2

Hagen, M 2b…………..  4  0  1  1   1  1  0  0   0

Nettles, J 3b…………  5  0  1  0   0  1  3  1   4

Olivares, T ss………..  4  2  2  0   1  0  2  4   0

Belcher, J c………….  5  1  2  0   0  1  6  2   3

Ayala, E lf…………..  3  0  0  0   1  1  1  0   0

Anderson, T dh………..  2  2  1  2   2  0  0  0   0

Burke, J 1b…………..  4  0  2  0   0  1  6  0   1

Buglovsky, C p………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Gothreaux, J p……….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Basner, R p………….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Henderson, B p……….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Totals………………. 36  6 11  5   5  6 27  7  12

Camden 2 (1-3)

Player                    AB  R  H RBI BB SO PO  A LOB

——————————————————

Lydon, W cf…………..  5  1  2  0   0  0  1  0   0

Spivey, J 2b………….  4  0  0  0   1  0  1  4   0

Nelson, B ss………….  4  0  1  0   0  1  1  3   3

Knott, J lf…………..  3  1  2  0   0  1  1  0   0

Leon, J dh……………  4  0  2  2   0  1  0  0   0

Burgamy, B rf…………  4  0  1  0   0  0  3  0   4

Chiaravollot 1b……….  4  0  1  0   0  1 11  1   1

Bonvechio, B 3b……….  4  0  1  0   0  2  1  2   1

Finegan, B 3b………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  1   0

Torres, F c…………..  4  0  0  0   0  0  7  0   0

Davey, T p……………  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  1   0

Newman, J p………….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  1   0

Flannery, M p………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  1  0   0

Totals………………. 36  2 10  2   1  6 27 13   9

Score by Innings                    R  H  E

——————————————-

Somerset Patriots… 020 000 211 -  6 11  0

Camden………….. 002 000 000 -  2 10  2

——————————————-

E – Nelson, B(8); Torres, F(2). DP – Camden 1. LOB – Patriots 12; Camden 9.

2B – Belcher, J(11); Anderson, T(11); Knott, J(13); Leon, J(5). HBP – Smith,

S; Anderson, T; Knott, J. SH – Ayala, E; Burke, J. SB – Rodriquez, M(25);

Smith, S(27). CS – Lydon, W(5).

Somerset Patriots      IP  H  R ER BB SO AB BF

———————————————–

Buglovsky, C……..  5.0  9  2  2  1  3 23 25

Gothreaux, J……..  2.0  0  0  0  0  2  6  6

Basner, R………..  1.0  1  0  0  0  1  4  4

Henderson, B……..  1.0  0  0  0  0  0  3  3

Camden                 IP  H  R ER BB SO AB BF

———————————————–

Davey, T…………  6.0  6  2  2  2  5 22 25

Newman, J………..  1.0  2  2  1  2  0  5  8

Flannery, M………  2.0  3  2  1  1  1  9 12

Win – Gothreaux, J (4-5).  Loss – Newman, J (0-2).  Save – None.

HBP – by Buglovsky, C (Knott, J); by Flannery, M (Anderson, T); by Flannery, M

(Smith, S). PB – Torres, F.

Umpires – HP: Valentin  1B: Colls  3B: Diaz

Start: 1:11   Time: 2:42   Attendance: 2992

Game: CMD7120

The Blue Crabs took an early lead in the top of the first inning after right fielder John Ramistella (8) hit a solo homerun to left field.  Third baseman Mike Just then singled, shortstop Travis Garcia singled, first baseman Patrick Osborn singled, and left fielder James Shanks doubled to score Just and Garcia.  Center fielder Jeremy Owens followed with a double to score Osborn and Shanks to make the score 5-0.

Somerset answered with three runs in the bottom of the first inning.  Right fielder Mike Rodriguez singled, second baseman Matt Hagen doubled, and third baseman Jeff Nettles hit a sacrifice fly to plate Rodriguez.  Catcher Jason Belcher (2) followed with a two run homerun to cut the lead to 5-3.

The Patriots tied the game in the bottom of the third inning after Nettles doubled, designated hitter Teuris Olivares doubled to score Nettles, and left fielder Elliott Ayala singled to drive home Olivares to make the score 5-5.

Somerset scored in the bottom of the fourth inning after first baseman Joe Burke doubled and scored on an RBI single by Rodriguez for the 6-5 lead.

The Patriots added to their lead in the bottom of the sixth inning after shortstop Anthony Granato walked and later scored on a sacrifice fly to center field by Rodriguez to make the score 7-5.

Southern Maryland scored in the top of the eighth inning after a solo homerun by Owens (15) to cut the lead to 7-6.

The Patriots added to their lead in the bottom of the eighth inning.  Center fielder Sean Smith singled, stole second, and scored on an RBI single by Nettles to make the score 8-6.

Patriots starter Brian Adams (8-4) picked up the win after allowing six earned runs on nine hits and nine strikeouts in 7.2 innings pitched.  Blue Crabs starter Joe Gannon (5-9) suffered the loss after allowing seven earned runs on 12 hits in 5.1 innings pitched.  Patriots closer Bret Prinz (5) got the save after pitching a scoreless ninth inning.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home on Saturday, July 4th with a 5:05 pm game against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. The game features a Pre-Game Baseball Clinic, $1 Hot Dogs, and a Chance to Win $10,000 presented by Heineken Premium Light.  For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

Southern Maryland took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the third inning on a solo homerun to left field by Ramistella (6).

The Patriots answered in the bottom of the third inning.  Left fielder Joe Burke singled, catcher Travis Anderson walked, shortstop Anthony Granato walked, and right fielder Mike Rodriguez hit a sacrifice fly to score Burke.  First baseman Josh Pressley then walked, designated hitter Matt Hagen was hit by a pitch to score Anderson, and third baseman Jeff Nettles singled to score Granato and Pressley.  Burke capped off the rally with an RBI single to score Hagen for the 5-1 lead.

The Blue Crabs added a run in the top of the fourth inning after a solo homerun by Shanks (9) to cut the lead to 5-2.

Southern Maryland scored in the top of the fifth inning after third baseman Chuck Jeroloman walked, Ramistella walked, second baseman Mike Just walked, and shortstop Travis Garcia doubled to clear the bases and tie the game.  Shanks (10) followed with a two run homerun to make the score 7-5.

Somerset cut the lead to 7-6 in the bottom of the sixth inning after Anderson hit a solo homerun (3) to left center field.

Southern Maryland added to their lead in the top of the eighth inning after designated hitter Jermy Acey doubled and Ramistella (7) followed with a homerun to make the score 9-6.

The Blue Crabs added a run in the top of the ninth inning after a solo homerun by center fielder Jeremy Owens (14).

Southern Maryland reliever Byron Batson (2-2) picked up the win after pitching 2.1 scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out two.  Patriots reliever Scott Van Es (0-1) got the loss after surrendering three earned runs on three hits and two walks in 0.2 innings pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home on Friday, July 3rd with a 7:05 pm game against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. The game features a Post-Game Fireworks Show courtesy of True and Associates.  For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

]]> http://www.atlanticleagueindependent.com/2009/07/03/crabs-defeat-fish-10-6/feed/ 0 http://www.atlanticleagueindependent.com/2009/06/26/revs-hang-on-to-defeat-pats-7-6/ http://www.atlanticleagueindependent.com/2009/06/26/revs-hang-on-to-defeat-pats-7-6/#comments Fri, 26 Jun 2009 06:48:13 +0000 Atlantic League Independent Wire Services http://www.atlanticleagueindependent.com/?p=958 YORK, PA- The York Revolution defeated the Somerset Patriots 7-6 at Sovereign Bank Stadium on Thursday evening.

The Revolution broke a scoreless tie with a ten batter, three run bottom of the fourth inning to take a 6-0 lead. York loaded the bases after second baseman Keoni DeRenne was hit by a pitch, designated hitter Tom Collaro singled up the middle, and right fielder Jason Aspito singled to right. After a double play ground ball, left fielder Matt Esquivel hit a two out two run triple to right center to plate Collaro and Aspito. First baseman John Purdom followed with an RBI bloop single to right to score Esquivel and then after a single to center by catcher Josh Johnson, center fielder Kennard Jones hit a two run double into left center. Jones would later score on a Patriots’ fielding error on a ground ball to second off the bat of shortstop Matt Rogelstad.

The Patriots scored two runs in the top of the six inning to cut the lead to 6-2 when second baseman Matt Hagen crushed a two run home run (6) to left center after designated hitter Josh Pressley led off with a single up the middle.

York got a run back in the bottom of the sixth inning to make it 7-2 when Jones hit a one out single to center, moved into scoring position on a single to right center by Rogelstad, and scored on a two out RBI single to center by Collaro.

Somerset rallied for two runs in the top of the seventh inning to cut the Revolution lead to 7-4. The Patriots loaded the bases on a lead off single to right by first baseman Joe Burke, a single to right by leftfielder Elliott Ayala, and a bunt single up the third base line by centerfielder Sean Smith. Pressley then drew a one out walk to force in Burke and Hagen followed with a sacrifice fly to right to plate Ayala.

The Patriots added two more runs in the top of the eighth inning to make it a 7-6 York lead. Somerset loaded the bases when Anderson reached on a Revolution fielding error on a pop up to third, a walk by shortstop Teuris Olivares and a single to center by Burke. Ayala was then hit-by-a-pitch to force in Anderson and Olivares scored on a RBI single to center by Smith.

Revolution starter Dan Foli (2-7) picked up the win, allowing four runs on six hits while striking out four and walking four in six plus innings of work. Patriots’ starter Jason Standridge (0-2) suffered the loss, allowing six runs, five earned, on six hits while walking one and striking out three in 3.2 inning pitched. Revolution reliever Bob Zimmerman pitched a scoreless ninth inning for his second save of the season.

With the loss the Patriots dropped to 37-20 on the 2009 season while the Revolution improved to 18-39.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Thursday, July 2nd when the Patriots return to TD Bank Ballpark for a 705 pm game against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. The game is Strikeout Cancer Night presented by Cancer Treatment Centers of America.  For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com

Both teams got off to a fast start in this game, as they each posted one run in the first inning. Somerset’s Sean Smith lead the game off with a single to right field, and then stole second base. He scored later in the inning, when second baseman Matt Hagen bounced a single through the middle of the Camden defense for an RBI single. The Riversharks answered right back in the bottom half of the inning, courtesy of a solo homerun by shortstop Bryant Nelson, which tied the game at 1-1.

The Sharks took the lead in the third inning, again courtesy of a solo homerun by Nelson, which was launched over the right field wall. The homerun was his second of the game, and fourth of the season, and made the score 2-1 in favor of the home team.

The visitors used some clutch, two out, hitting in the fifth inning to tie the game at 2-2. After the first two batters of the inning we retired, shortstop Anthony Granato made it into scoring position with a double to left field. The next batter was Smith, who picked up his second base hit of the game, scoring Granato in the process.

With the game tied in the final inning, the Riversharks put the ball in the hands of reliable reliever Tracy Thorpe. Unfortunately for the Sharks, Thorpe gave up the game winning run when Somerset’s Joe Burke laced an RBI single to center, scoring second baseman Matt Hagen, and giving the Patriots a 3-2 victory. With the loss, the Riversharks fall 23-26 on the season, while Somerset improves to 33-16.

Next up, the Riversharks will head to Regency Stadium to take on the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. The four game series will begin Monday night at 7:05 pm, with right handed pitcher Nate Bump (7-2, 2.12) expected to take the mound for Camden. The Sharks will return home to Campbell’s Field on Friday, June 19th, to take on the Newark Bears. Limited seating is still available. For more information, or to purchase tickets visit www.riversharks.com.

Box Score

The Automated ScoreBook

Somerset at Camden

Jun 14, 2009 at Camden, NJ (Campbell’s Field)

Somerset 3 (33-16)

Player                    AB  R  H RBI BB SO PO  A LOB

——————————————————

Smith, S cf………….  4  1  2  1   0  0  2  0   0

Rodriguez, M rf……….  4  0  1  0   0  1  2  0   1

Pressley, J dh………..  4  0  0  0   0  1  0  0   0

Hagen, M 2b…………..  4  1  2  1   0  0  2  2   0

Nettles, J 3b…………  4  0  0  0   0  1  0  1   1

Burke, J 1b…………..  4  0  1  1   0  0  8  2   0

Ayala, E lf…………..  4  0  0  0   0  1  2  0   1

Belcher, J c………….  3  0  2  0   0  0  7  1   0

Johnson, B pr………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Anderson, T c………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Granato, A ss…………  2  1  1  0   0  0  2  2   1

Fairchild, T p………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  2  1   0

Van Es, S p………….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  2   0

Cahill, C p………….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  1   0

Basner, R p………….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Prinz, B p…………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Totals………………. 33  3  9  3   0  4 27 12   4

Camden 2 (23-26)

Player                    AB  R  H RBI BB SO PO  A LOB

——————————————————

Lydon, W cf…………..  5  0  1  0   0  2  0  0   0

Walker, C rf………….  5  0  0  0   0  0  2  0   0

Nelson, B ss………….  5  2  2  2   0  1  3  2   3

Knott, J lf…………..  4  0  1  0   0  1  5  0   0

Burgamy, B 3b…………  2  0  1  0   1  1  0  4   0

Spivey, J 2b………….  3  0  3  0   1  0  1  0   0

Chiaravollot 1b……….  3  0  0  0   1  0 10  2   0

Finegan, B dh…………  4  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   5

Torres, F c…………..  4  0  2  0   0  1  4  1   2

Drese, R p……………  0  0  0  0   0  0  1  0   0

Brey, J p……………  0  0  0  0   0  0  1  0   0

Guerrero, J p………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  1   0

Thorpe, T p………….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Totals………………. 35  2 10  2   3  6 27 10  10

Score by Innings                    R  H  E

——————————————-

Somerset………… 100 010 001 -  3  9  0

Camden………….. 101 000 000 -  2 10  0

——————————————-

DP – Somerset 1; Camden 1. LOB – Somerset 4; Camden 10. 2B – Hagen, M(16);

Granato, A(4). HR – Nelson, B 2(4). SH – Granato, A; Burgamy, B. SB – Smith,

S(11); Lydon, W(23). CS – Smith, S(1).

Somerset               IP  H  R ER BB SO AB BF

———————————————–

Fairchild, T……..  5.0  4  2  2  2  5 19 21

Van Es, S………..  2.0  3  0  0  1  1  8  9

Cahill, C………..  0.2  2  0  0  0  0  3  4

Basner, R………..  0.1  0  0  0  0  0  1  1

Prinz, B…………  1.0  1  0  0  0  0  4  4

Camden                 IP  H  R ER BB SO AB BF

———————————————–

Drese, R…………  1.0  2  1  1  0  1  5  5

Brey, J………….  6.0  4  1  1  0  1 20 20

Guerrero, J………  1.0  1  0  0  0  0  3  4

Thorpe, T………..  1.0  2  1  1  0  2  5  5

Win – Basner, R (2-0).  Loss – Thorpe, T (0-2).  Save – Prinz, B (1).

WP – Fairchild, T.

Umpires – HP: Mayhue Edwards  1B: Dave Perry  3B: Dan Wilson

Start: 1:08 pm   Time: 2:35   Attendance: 3440

Weather: Sunny and nice

Game: CAM6140

The story in this game was the pitching of Jim Magrane (6-0). The Patriots starter picked up the win firing seven innings, allowing five hits and one run, while striking out one.

First baseman Josh Pressley supplied the power for the Patriots as he crushed a two-run homer in the first. Ducks’ starter B.J. LaMura (2-4) tossed seven innings, allowing six runs and eight hits, with one punch-out.

A four-run fourth inning did the Flock in as designated hitter Matt Hagen smashed a three-run dinger to help propel the Pats.

Estee Harris extended his hitting streak to 10-games and Lew Ford cracked his team-leading 11^th double.

The Ducks continue their homestand on Tuesday night with a doubleheader against the Camden Riversharks, with each game slated for seven innings. First pitch for game one is scheduled for 5:35 p.m., with gates opening simultaneously. The first 1,500 fans in attendance will receive a Car Sponge, presented by Sponge Tech. Fans unable to attend can tune into all the action online at www.liducks.com, with Chris King and Casey Lynn calling the play-by-play.

Bridgeport took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning after center fielder Adam Greenberg walked, second baseman Enohel Polanco singled, and third baseman Luis Lopez hit a sacrifice fly to center to score Greenberg.

Somerset answered in the bottom of the second inning after third baseman Jeff Nettles singled, designated hitter Travis Anderson singled, and left fielder Elliott Ayala hit into a fielder’s choice to score Nettles.  Shortstop Anthony Granato followed with an RBI single for the 2-1 lead.

The Patriots added to their lead in the bottom of the third inning.  Right fielder Mike Rodriguez singled, stole second, and scored on a single by second baseman Matt Hagen.  Hagen advanced to second on a throwing error, moved to third on a fielder’s choice by Nettles, and scored on a passed ball to make the score 4-1.

The Bluefish scored in the top of the fourth inning after first baseman Jesse Hoorelbeke doubled and shortstop Rayner Bautista doubled to drive him home and cut the lead to 4-2.

Somerset scored in the bottom of the fourth inning after catcher Jason Belcher singled, Ayala walked, and Granato reached on a fielder’s choice.  Belcher and Ayala then came around to score on a throwing error by Hoorelbeke.  Rodriguez followed with a single to plate Granato, stole second, and later scored on a single by Hagen.  Hagen then stole second and scored on an RBI single by Nettles for the 9-1 advantage.

The Patriots scored twice in the bottom of the sixth inning.  Rodriguez walked, Hagen singled, and Nettles doubled to clear the bases for the 11-2 lead.

Patriots starter Brian Adams (5-2) picked up the win after allowing two earned runs on six hits and six strikeouts in six innings pitched. Bridgeport starter Gary Knotts (1-3) suffered the loss, allowing nine runs, four earned, on nine hits in 3.2 innings pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Friday, June 5th against the Bridgeport Bluefish. The game features a Post-Game Fireworks Extravaganza presented by Wells Fargo Advisors of Warren.  For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKET ON-LINE!

Lancaster took the lead in the top of the first inning after second baseman Danny Bravo singled, center fielder Michael Woods singled, and third baseman Aaron Herr (3) hit a three run homerun to make the score 3-0.

Somerset scored in the bottom of the first inning after first baseman Josh Pressley walked and scored on an RBI double by second baseman Matt Hagen to cut the lead to 3-1.

The Barnstormers added to their lead in the top of the third inning.  Bravo doubled, Woods walked, and Herr tripled to clear the bases and make the score 5-1.

The Patriots rallied to score four runs in the bottom of the fourth inning.  Pressley walked, Hagen reached on a fielder’s choice, designated hitter Jeff Nettles walked, and catcher Travis Anderson double to score Pressley and Hagen.  Third baseman Teuris Olivares then singled to score Nettles, left fielder Elliott Ayala walked, and center fielder Sean Smith walked to force home Anderson to tie the game 5-5.

Lancaster scored three in the top of the fifth inning after first baseman Bryan Sabatella singled and Bravo doubled to drive him home.  Herr (4) then hit his second homerun of the game to make the score 8-5.

Somerset added two runs in the bottom of the fifth inning after Hagen reached on a fielder’s choice and Anderson singled to drive him home.  Anderson then reached home on a pair of Lancaster throwing errors to trim the lead to 8-7.

The Patriots took the lead in the bottom of the sixth inning after shortstop Anthony Granato walked, stole second, and scored on an RBI singled by Smith.  Pressley then walked, Hagen doubled to plate Smith, and Nettles reached on an error that scored Pressley and Hagen.  Anderson followed with a double to score Nettles for the 12-8 advantage.

Somerset added a run in the bottom of the seventh inning.  Ayala singled and scored on a sacrifice fly by Smith for a 13-8 lead.

Lancaster cut the lead in the top of the ninth inning after left fielder David Housel singled, shortstop Lloyd Turner doubled, pinch hitter Amadeo Zazueta hit into a fielder’s choice to score Housel, and Bravo grounded out to third to score Turner for the 13-10 final.

Patriots relief pitcher Tip Fairchild (2-1) picked up the win after two scoreless innings, allowing two hits and two strikeouts in three innings pitched.  Barnstormers reliever Eric Junge (0-1) got the loss after surrendering two earned runs on three hits in an inning pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Thursday, June 4th against the Bridgeport Bluefish. The game features Car Magnets for the first 2,000 fans courtesy of TD Bank and Nascar Night.  For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKET ON-LINE!

Somerset took the lead in the bottom of the second inning after a solo homerun by designated hitter Jeff Nettles (2).  Catcher Jason Belcher walked, third baseman Teuris Olivares singled, and left fielder Elliott Ayala reached on an error to load the bases.  Shortstop Anthony Granato then walked to score Belcher, right fielder Mike Rodriguez hit into a fielder’s choice to score Olivares, and first baseman Josh Pressley (6) hit a three run homerun to make the score 6-0.

Lancaster scored a run in the top of the fourth inning after center fielder Michael Woods singled and scored on an RBI double by designated hitter L.J. Biernbaum.

The Patriots answered with a run in the bottom of the fourth inning when center fielder Sean Smith (2) hit an inside the park homerun to make the score 7-1.

Somerset added to their lead in the bottom of the fifth inning.  Second baseman Matt Hagen walked and scored when Ayala singled to left field for an 8-1 lead.

The Barnstormers scored two in the top of the seventh inning after Woods singled and third baseman Aaron Herr (2) hit a homerun to cut the lead to 8-3.

The Patriots added a run in the bottom of the seventh inning.  Ayala was hit by a pitch and scored when Rodriguez hit a sacrifice fly to right field for the 9-3 final.

Patriots starting pitcher Jim Magrane (5-0) picked up the win after allowing three earned runs on six hits and five strikeouts in eight innings pitched.  Barnstormers starter Juan Ovalles (1-3) got the loss after allowing six runs, one earned, on four hits in two innings pitched.
The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Wednesday, June 3rd against the Lancaster Barnstormers. The game features Baseball Bingo for the first 2,000 fans courtesy of Petrock’s and Somerset County Teacher Appreciation Night.  For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKET ON-LINE!

The Barnstormers took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning after shortstop Lloyd Turner singled, stole second, and scored on an RBI single by center fielder Michael Woods.

The Patriots answered in the bottom of the first inning after right fielder Mike Rodriguez reached on a fielder’s choice, stole second, and second baseman Matt Hagen singled to drive him home. Catcher Travis Anderson then singled to left center to score Hagen and make the score 2-1.

Somerset broke the game open with nine runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Designated hitter Jason Belcher doubled, Anderson was hit by a pitch, and third baseman Teuris Olivares doubled to plate Belcher. Left fielder Elliott Ayala then singled to score Olivares and shortstop Anthony Granato followed with a three run homerun (4) to make the score 7-1. First baseman Josh Pressley then reached on a bunt single, Hagen singled, and Belcher doubled to score Pressley. Anderson capped off the rally by hitting a three run homerun (2) to left field to make the score 11-1.

The Barnstormers added a run in the top of the fifth inning. Left fielder Michael Campbell doubled and first baseman Bryan Sabatella singled to make the score 11-2.

Lancaster cut the lead in the top of the sixth inning after designated hitter L.J. Biernbaum reached on an error, catcher Gerard Haran doubled, and right fielder Ryan Mulhern singled up the middle to score Biernbaum and Haran. Sabatella followed with a three run homerun (1) to center to make the score 11-7.

The Barnstormers made it an 11-9 game in the top of the eighth inning. Turner reached on a fielder’s choice, second baseman Danny Bravo singled, and Woods doubled to score Turner. Biernbaum then grounded out to score Bravo.

Patriots starting pitcher Josh Miller (5-2) picked up the win, allowing six runs, four earned, on seven hits in 5.2 innings pitched. Barnstormers starting pitcher Jason Scobie (1-2) got the loss after surrendering 11 earned runs on 13 hits in four innings pitched. Patriots closer Travis Minix (10) got the save after pitching a scoreless ninth inning to close out the victory.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Tuesday, June 2nd against the Lancaster Barnstormers. The game features a chance to win $10,000 courtesy of Heineken Premium Light and Celebrate New Jersey Night. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

Somerset broke a 7-7 tie with four runs in the top of the eighth inning to take an 11-7 lead. The Patriots loaded the bases on a lead off single to left by rightfielder Mike Rodriguez, an infield single up the middle by centerfielder Sean Smith and a one out intentional walk to designated hitter Josh Pressley. Second baseman Matt Hagen then cleared the bases with a grand slam (4) over the left field wall.

The Patriots struck first with two runs in the top of the third inning to take a 2-0 lead when Smith ripped a one out double to left center and scored on a two run home run to left off the bat of shortstop Anthony Granato (3).

The Bears answered with a run in the bottom of the third inning to cut the lead to 2-1 when second baseman Anthony Manuel led off with a triple into the right field corner and scored on a RBI groundout by centerfielder Tike Redman.

Somerset scored a run in the top of the fourth inning to take a 3-1 lead when third baseman Teuris Olivares slugged a one out solo home run (4) over the left field wall.

Newark again answered with a run in the bottom of the fourth inning to make it 3-2 when first baseman Rob Mackowiak doubled down the right field line and scored on a one out RBI single to left by Manuel.

The Patriots added a run in the top of the fifth inning to extend their lead to 4-2 when Granato lined a one out single to center, moved to second on a walk by Pressley and after stealing third, scored on an RBI single to left by Hagen .

Somerset then plated three runs in the top of the sixth inning to take a 7-2 lead. Leftfielder Elliott Ayala lined a two out single to left, stole second and scored on an RBI double to left center by Rodriguez. After a balk call and a walk by Smith, Rodriguez would scamper home on a Bears’ throwing error on a pickoff attempt.  Granato then lined an RBI single to center that plated Smith.

The Bears rallied for five runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to tie the game at 7-7. Shortstop Jansy Infante hit a lead off double to left center and scored on a one out RBI single to right by designated hitter Carl Everett. After a walk by leftfielder Charlton Jimerson, catcher Salomon Manriquez hit a two out two run single to right that plated both Everett and Jimerson. Third baseman Michael Sandoval then hit a two run home run (1) to left to cap the scoring.

Patriots’ reliever Casey Cahill (2-0) picked up the win, throwing a scoreless 0.1 innings. Bears’ reliever Shane Komine (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing one run on three hits while walking one and striking two in 1.1 innings pitched.

With the win the Patriots improved to 22-13 on the 2009 season while the Bears dropped to 19-16.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Monday, June 1st against the Lancaster Barnstormers. The game features Computer and Electronic Recycling Night.  Bring in your used computer or electronics for the collection and receive a complimentary game ticket. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS ON-LINE!

In Game One, Somerset broke a 3-3 tie with a run in the top of the fifth inning to take a 4-3 lead when first baseman Josh Pressley crushed a one out solo home run (5) to left center field.

The Patriots added an insurance run in the top of the seventh inning to make it 5-3 when rightfielder Mike Rodriguez led off with a single to left, stole second and scored on a one out RBI single to left by catcher Travis Anderson.

Newark struck first with three runs in the bottom of the first inning to take an early 3-0 lead.  Second baseman Andres Perez hit a one out triple to right center and after rightfielder Jay Gibbons was hit by a pitch, came around to score on an RBI groundout to second by designated hitter Carl Everett.  First baseman Salomon Manriquez then followed with a two out two run home run (2) to left center.

Somerset answered with two runs in the top of the second inning to cut the Bears lead to 3-2.  Second baseman Matt Hagen hit a broken bat bloop double down the right field line to lead off and scored on a one out RBI single to right by catcher Jason Belcher.  After a single to left by third baseman Teuris Olivares, shortstop Elliott Ayala ripped an RBI single to right center that plated Belcher.

The Patriots tied the game at 3-3 with a run in the top of the third inning when Belcher lined a bases loaded two out RBI single to left that scored Pressley.

Patriots’ starter Brian Adams (4-2) picked up the win, allowing three runs on five hits while striking out four and walking none in five innings of work.  Bears’ reliever Oneli Perez (3-3) suffered the loss, allowing two runs on three hits while walking one and striking five in four innings pitched.  Patriots’ closer Travis Minix pitched a scoreless ninth for his ninth save of the season.

In Game Two, the Patriots struck first with a run in the top of the first inning to take an early 1-0 lead when centerfielder Sean Smith lined a lead off triple to right center and scored on a sacrifice fly to center off the bat off rightfielder Mike Rodriguez.

Somerset added a run in the top of the third inning to make it a 2-0 lead when Rodriguez hit a two out infield single up the middle, advanced to second on a Bears’ throwing error and came home on an RBI single to left by Pressley.

The Bears plated a run in the bottom of the third inning to cut the lead to 2-1 when leftfielder Charlton Jimerson hit a one out double to left center and scored on an RBI double to right by Gibbons.

The Patriots broke the game open with a ten batter, seven run top of the fifth inning to take a commanding 9-1 lead.  Rodriguez blooped a one out double to shallow center and scored on an RBI double off the center field wall by Pressley.  After a two out walk by catcher Travis Anderson, Belcher lined a two run double to right center that plated both Pressley and Anderson.  Olivares then slapped an RBI single to right that scored Belcher and Ayala followed with an RBI single to right that brought in Olivares.  Shortstop Anthony Granato then capped the scoring by slugging a two run home run (2) to left.

Somerset scored their final run in the top of the seventh inning to make it 10-1 when Olivares ripped a double down the third base line, moved to second on a passed ball and scored on a sacrifice fly to center by Ayala.

Newark plated their final two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to make it 10-3.  Jimerson led off with a double into the right field corner and scored when Gibbons followed with an RBI double to right.  Gibbons would later score on a Patriots’ fielding error on a ground ball to third off the bat of first baseman Michael Hernandez.

Patriots’ reliever Casey Cahill (1-0) picked up the win, throwing two scoreless innings, allowing one hit while striking out none and walking two.  Bears’ starter Aaron Fultz (1-1) suffered the loss, allowing nine runs, eight earned, on eleven hits while walking two and striking one in 4.2 innings pitched.

With the sweep the Patriots improved to 21-13 on the 2009 season while the Bears dropped to 19-15.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Monday, June 1st against the Lancaster Barnstormers. The game features Computer and Electronic Recycling Night.  Bring in your used computer or electronics for the collection and receive a complimentary game ticket. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS ON-LINE!

The Patriots broke a scoreless tie with a run in the top of the sixth inning to take a 1-0 lead when catcher Travis Anderson drew a two out bases loaded walk. Somerset loaded the bases on a one out walk by first baseman Josh Pressley, a single to center by third baseman Jeff Nettles and a single to left by second baseman Matt Hagen.

The Bears answered with three runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to take a 3-1 lead when first baseman Rob Mackowiak hit a lead off infield single to short, moved to second on a one out single to left by third baseman Michael Sandoval and scored on a three run home run to center by catcher Saloman Manriquez (1).

Somerset scored their final run in the top of the eighth inning to cut the Bears lead to 3-2 when Nettles led off with a double to left center, moved to third on a single to right by Hagen and scored on an RBI single to center by designated hitter Teuris Olivares.

Bears’ starter Shawn Chacon (2-1) picked up the win, allowing one run on six hits while striking out eight and walking three in seven innings of work. Patriots’ starter Kip Bouknight (3-2) suffered the loss, allowing three runs on seven hits while walking none and striking out five in seven innings pitched. Bears’ closer Armando Benitez pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for his first save of the season.

With the loss the Patriots dropped to 19-13 on the 2009 season while the Bears improved to 19-13.
The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Monday, June 1st against the Lancaster Barnstormers. The game features Computer and Electronic Recycling Night.  Bring in your used computer or electronics for the collection and receive a complimentary game ticket. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS ON-LINE!

The Bluefish offense was highlighted by one swing of the bat from Ed Rogers in the first inning. Rogers connected on a three-run shot that scored Luis Lopez and Brandon Sing to give Bridgeport an early lead. Adam Greenberg also contributed with a base knock to extend his hitting streak to 10 games.

Corey Lee did not factor in the decision, but found his groove early and never lost it after allowing only one run on five hits and five walks, while striking out four over six innings of work. Andy Weimer also pitched well for Bridgeport by adding a perfect frame in the seventh. Rick Asadoorian (0-2) suffered the loss after surrendering the tying and go-ahead runs in the ninth inning.

Jim Magrane (4-0) pitched well for Somerset, lasting eight innings and allowing five hits, three runs, three walks and struck out eight. Matt Hagen turned out to be the hero for the Patriots after he connected on the game tying single that scored Sean Smith. Jeff Nettles also came across the plate as the eventual winning run on the same play after an overthrow by Brandon Sing.

The Bluefish head on the road for three games beginning tomorrow night in Southern Maryland as the Bluefish visit the Blue Crabs for a weekend matchup. Fans can keep tabs on their hometown team throughout the road trip by tuning into the Bluefish Broadcast Network. Friday’s contest against Southern Maryland begins at 7:05 p.m., with the broadcast beginning at 6:45 p.m., exclusively on www.bridgeportbluefish.com. Bluefish radio voice Josh Rogol will have the call of all the action.

The Bluefish return home on Monday, June 1, to open a three-game series against cross-sound rival Long Island. The first pitch slated for 7:05 p.m., and gates open at 6:05 p.m. for Kid’s Eat Free Monday, courtesy of ABI-JAY Novelty Foods. All kid’s (12 and under) will receive a free hot dog, bag of chips and 12 oz. fountain soda. Tickets are still available by visiting the Harbor Yard box office, calling (203)-345-4800, or by visiting www.bridgeportbluefish.com and clicking the tickets icon.

The Bridgeport Bluefish Professional Baseball Club, a charter team in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, plays its home games at The Ballpark at Harbor Yard, located off Exit 27 of I-95 on the corner of Broad Street and South Frontage Road in Bridgeport. 2009 season tickets, mini-plans, group outings and individual tickets are available by calling 203-345-4800. Visit the Bluefish online at www.bridgeportbluefish.com.

Somerset took a 1-0 lead after center fielder Sean Smith struck out and reached first on a wild pitch, stole second, advanced to third on an error, and scored when first baseman Josh Pressley grounded out to second.

The Patriots added a run in the bottom of the fourth inning. Second baseman Matt Hagen singled and catcher Travis Anderson doubled to score Hagen for a 2-0 lead.

Long Island tied the game in the top of the fifth inning after right fielder Johnny Hernandez doubled, stole third, and scored on a groundout by catcher John Pachot. Left fielder Gabe Suarez then singled and scored on an RBI single by third baseman Ray Navarrete to make the score 2-2.

Somerset broke the tie in the bottom of the fifth inning after right fielder Brandon Johnson walked and Pressley singled to score Johnson for a 3-2 lead.

The Ducks regained the lead in the top of the seventh inning. Hernandez was hit by a pitch and Pachot tripled to drive him home. Second baseman Matt Cavagnaro then singled to score Pachot and make the score 4-3.

Long Island added to their lead in the top of the eighth inning after designated hitter Raul Gonzalez singled and first baseman Victor Rodriguez followed with a two-run homerun (2).

The Patriots cut the lead to 6-4 in the bottom of the eighth inning after a solo homerun to left center by Pressley (4).

Ducks starting pitcher B.J. LaMura (1-3) picked up the win after allowing two earned runs on five hits and five strikeouts in six innings pitched. Patriots reliever Tip Fairchild (1-1) got the loss after surrendering two earned runs on a hit in 0.2 innings pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Monday, June 1st against the Lancaster Barnstormers. The game features Computer and Electronic Recycling Night. Bring in your used computer or electronics for the collection and receive a complimentary game ticket.For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

Somerset took a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Designated hitter Sean Smith walked, stole second base, and scored on an RBI single by first baseman Josh Pressley. Catcher Jason Belcher then drove home Pressley with an RBI single.

Long Island cut the lead to 2-1 with a run in the top of the second inning. Left fielder Estee Harris doubled and scored on an RBI single by shortstop Gabe Suarez.

The Patriots extended the lead with two runs in the bottom of the second inning. Shortstop Anthony Granato walked, Smith was hit by a pitch, and center fielder Mike Rodriguez singled to load the bases. Pressley drew a bases loaded walk to plate Granato and Smith scored when third baseman Jeff Nettles grounded into a triple play for a 4-1 lead.

The Patriots added a run in the bottom of the fourth inning on a solo home run by left fielder Jon Nelson (3) to make the score 5-1.

Somerset continued to roll with two more runs in the bottom of the fifth for a 7-1 advantage. Nettles and right fielder Matt Hagen each singled and Belcher and Nelson followed with back-to-back RBI singles.

The Ducks cut the lead to 7-2 after designated hitter Raul Gonzalez singled and scored on an RBI single by Johnny Hernandez.

Patriots starter Kip Bouknight (3-1) picked up the win, allowing two earned runs on six hits in six innings pitched. Ducks starter Randy Leek (1-4) suffered the loss, allowing seven earned runs on nine hits in 4.1 innings pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 1:35 pm game on Sunday afternoon against the Long Island Ducks. The game includes Youth Baseball Bats for the first 1,000 kids and SpongeBob Day. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

Somerset took an early 3-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Center fielder Sean Smith singled, right fielder Mike Rodriguez drew a walk, and third baseman Jeff Nettles followed with an RBI groundout to plate Smith. Designated hitter Matt Hagen then doubled home Rodriguez and Hagen scored on an RBI single by second baseman Teuris Olivares.

The Patriots added a run in the bottom of the third inning. First baseman Josh Pressley walked and scored on an RBI double by Hagen for a 4-0 lead.

Somerset extended the lead on a solo home run by Olivares (3) in the bottom of the fourth inning to make the score 5-0.

The Patriots increased their lead to 6-0 in the bottom of the sixth inning after shortstop Anthony Granato walked and scored on an error by left fielder Estee Harris.

Long Island scored in the top of the eighth inning after first baseman Johnny Hernandez singled and later scored on an RBI single by catcher John Pachot.

Somerset added another run in the bottom of the eighth inning after Olivares walked and later scored on a fielder’s choice by Smith.

Patriots starting pitcher Jim Magrane (3-0) picked up the win after surrendering only four hits and an earned run in 7.2 innings pitched.  Ducks starter Jake Dittler (0-1) got the loss after giving up five earned runs on six hits in five innings pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Saturday night against the Long Island Ducks. The game includes a Post-Game Fireworks Show courtesy of AT&T.  For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

Somerset took a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the second inning after right fielder Matt Hagen singled, stole second, catcher Jason Belcher walked, and shortstop Anthony Granato flied to center to score Hagen. Centerfielder Sean Smith then doubled to right field to plate Belcher.

The Patriots added a run in the bottom of the fourth inning when Granato walked, advanced to third base, and scored on a wild pitch.

Somerset increased their lead in the bottom of the fifth inning after first baseman Josh Pressley singled, third baseman Jeff Nettles singled, and Hagen doubled to score Pressley. Belcher followed with a single to score Nettles and Hagen reached home on an error by left fielder David Housel. Smith finished off the rally with a single to score Belcher and make the score 7-0.

The Patriots added three runs in the bottom of the seventh inning after Belcher doubled, Granato singled, and Smith followed with a home run (1) to make the score 10-0.

Patriots starting pitcher Brian Adams (3-2) picked up the win, allowing five hits and four strikeouts in seven scoreless innings pitched. Barnstormers starter Eric Ackerman (2-1) got the loss, surrendering seven runs, six earned, on eight hits in four innings pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game on Wednesday night against the Lancaster Barnstormers. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

Somerset took a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the second inning after third baseman Jeff Nettles walked, catcher Travis Anderson doubled, and second baseman Teuris Olivares singled home Nettles. Shortstop Anthony Granato followed with a two-run double to plate Anderson and Olivares.

Lancaster cut the lead to 3-1 in the top of the third inning when shortstop Lloyd Turner doubled and second baseman Danny Bravo followed with an RBI double to score Turner.

The Barnstormers cut the lead to one in the top of the third inning. Catcher Jed Morris singled, designated hitter Ryan Mulhern doubled, and first baseman Bryan Sabatella hit a sacrifice fly to center to score Morris.

Lancaster tied the game in the top of the fifth inning when Bravo walked, advanced to second on a wild pitch, and scored on an RBI single by right fielder L.J. Biernbaum to make the score 3-3.

Somerset took the lead in the bottom of the sixth inning after designated hitter Noah Hall singled and first baseman Josh Pressley doubled to score Hall. Right fielder Matt Hagen followed with a single to score Pressley and advanced to second base on a wild pitch. Anderson walked, stole second, and scored on an RBI single by Olivares. Granato hit a sacrifice fly to make the score 7-3.

The Patriots added to their lead in the bottom of the eighth inning after Anderson doubled, advanced to third on a wild pitch, and scored on an RBI single by Olivares. Granato followed with a single advancing Olivares to second base. Left fielder Joe Burke hit a fly ball that was dropped by left fielder Michael Woods to score both Olivares and Granato to make the score 10-3.

Patriots reliever Tip Fairchild (1-0) picked up the win with three innings pitched, allowing two hits, and four strikeouts. Barnstormers starting pitcher Tom Cochran (2-2) suffered the loss, surrendering six runs on eight hits in 5.1 innings pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with an 11:05 am game on Tuesday afternoon against the Lancaster Barnstormers. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

Using a much different batting order, the Revs struck for two runs in the first inning, grabbing an early 2-0 lead. Brandon Pinckney led off the game with a single to left, Ryan Goleski walked, and Matt Padgett singled to right to load the bases with no outs. Tom Collaro then drove in the first run on a fielder’s choice, and Jason Aspito singled to left field, plating the second run.

Dan Foli (0-3) came out with two scoreless innings, but the Patriots broke through with three in the third, going ahead 3-2. Jon Nelson led off the inning with a triple off the center field fence, and Mike Rodriguez plated him with the first run on a single up the middle. Rodriguez then stole second, advanced to third on an error, and scored on Joe Burke’s sac fly to left. Noah Hall followed with a walk, stole second, and scored on Jeff Nettles’ bloop single to put Somerset ahead.

The Revs quickly responded with the tying run in the bottom of the third. Padgett doubled to right with one out, chasing spot starter Scott Van Es. Collaro then shot an RBI single through the right side against reliever Casey Cahill to knot things up at 3-3.

Somerset had a two-run answer in the fourth, however, taking a 5-3 lead on Jason Belcher’s RBI single and a sac fly from Rodriguez. They added one more in the fifth on a sac fly by Matt Hagen, and two more in the seventh on a homer to left-center by Nettles.

Josh Miller (2-2) earned the win with six scoreless innings of relief. He was scheduled to start, but was initially held in case the game was called due to rain.

Aspito went 2-for-3 for the Revs with a double and an RBI, his second straight multi-hit game. Padgett was 2-for-5 with a double and a run, extending his hitting streak to seven games. Keoni DeRenne saw his nine-game hitting streak come to an end, going 0-for-2 with two walks.

Brian Holliday fired 1.1 scoreless innings for the Revs, and Travis Hughes worked a 1-2-3 ninth out of the Revolution bullpen. Hughes struck out two, and has now retired all six batters faced in a Revs uniform with four strikeouts.

Andy Shibilo made his York debut in relief, and allowed two in the seventh on the Nettles homer, but responded with a 1-2-3 eighth, and retired the final five that he faced.

The Revs will look to salvage a game in the series on Sunday at 1 p.m. when Corey Thurman squares off against Jim Magrane. Gates open at noon for the Team Autograph Session and Catch on the Field. Sunday is also the one-day-only Kids Eat Free event, Bark in the Park where one well-mannered dog is admitted free to the game with its owner, and Pink Jersey Day presented by Heritage Valley Federal Credit Union, raising cancer awareness. Kids Run the Bases after the game presented by rabbittransit. There will also be a “Meet and Eat” after the game with team members at the historic Elks Lodge on 223 North George Street in York.

BUY TICKETS NOW! or call 717-801-HITS today!

The Riversharks broke the scoreless tie in the fourth inning, as first baseman Brett Bonvechio reached base with a two out triple. The next batter was Vito Chiaravolloti, who singled to left and drove home his team-leading twelfth RBI of the season, giving Camden a 1-0 advantage.

The Patriots answered right back in the fifth inning. Leadoff hitter Matt Hagen made it to first base with an infield single, and then scored courtesy of and RBI double by Jason Belcher that tied the game at 1-1. Two batters later, left fielder Mike Rodriguez singled to center field, driving in Belcher, and giving Somerset the lead.  The Patriots added one more run in the inning, as Noah Hall singled to left field, and gave the Patriots a 3-1 lead when Rodriguez came around to score.

Camden took back one run in the bottom of the seventh inning. Chiaravolloti lead off with a double to left field, and then advanced to third base with the aid of a perfectly placed bunt by Wayne Lydon. Third baseman Brian Burgamy then stepped to the plate and laced a single to left field, scoring Chiaravolloti from third and cutting the deficit in half.

Somerset added an insurance run in the top of the ninth inning, as Riversharks reliever Tracy Thorpe struggled to find the strike zone. Thorpe walked two batters, and then gave up an RBI single to first baseman Joe Burke before finding his way out of the inning.

With a 4-2 lead, Somerset brought in closer Travis Minix to seal the game. Despite allowing one run on an RBI groundout by Jeffrey Vincent, Minix was able to shut down Camden and hold on for the 4-3 win, picking up his fifth save of the season in the process.

The Riversharks and Patriots will play game two of their three game series tomorrow night at 7:05pm. Right handed pitcher Brian Lawrence (2-0, 0.45 ERA) will take the mound for the Riversharks and will be opposed by Kip Bouknight (1-1, 2.30 ERA) from Somerset. Limited seating is still available.  Call 1-866-SHARKS-9 or visit www.riversharks.com to purchase tickets.

Box Score

The Automated ScoreBook

Somerset at Camden

May 12, 2009 at Camden, NJ (Campbell’s Field)

Somerset 4 (8-8)

Player                    AB  R  H RBI BB SO PO  A LOB

——————————————————

Rodriguez, M lf……….  3  1  1  1   1  2  1  0   0

Burke, J 1b…………..  5  0  2  1   0  0 10  0   0

Hall, N rf……………  5  0  1  1   0  0  1  0   3

Pressley, J dh………..  3  0  0  0   1  0  0  0   3

Nettles, J 3b…………  4  0  1  0   0  1  2  3   1

Hagen, M 2b…………..  4  1  1  0   0  1  4  4   0

Belcher, J c………….  4  1  1  1   0  0  7  0   0

Granato, A ss…………  3  1  0  0   1  1  1  3   1

Smith, S cf…………..  3  0  1  0   1  1  1  0   0

Magrane, J p………….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Prinz, B p…………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Minix, T p…………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Totals……………… 34  4  8  4   4  6 27 10   8

Camden 3 (9-8)

Player                    AB  R  H RBI BB SO PO  A LOB

——————————————————

Walker, C cf………….  4  0  0  0   1  1  2  0   2

Abernathy, B 2b……….  4  0  1  0   0  0  0  4   1

Majewski, V rf………..  4  0  0  0   0  1  2  0   0

Spivey, J ss………….  4  0  1  0   0  2  3  3   0

Bonvechio, B 1b……….  4  1  2  0   0  0  9  1   2

Chiaravollot dh……….  3  1  2  1   1  1  0  0   0

Lydon, W lf…………..  3  1  1  0   0  0  3  0   2

Burgamy, B 3b…………  3  0  1  1   1  1  1  0   0

Torres, F c…………..  3  0  0  0   0  1  6  0   0

Vincent, J ph………..  1  0  0  1   0  0  0  0   0

Drese, R p……………  0  0  0  0   0  0  1  3   0

Guerrero, J p………..  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  0   0

Thorpe, T p………….  0  0  0  0   0  0  0  1   0

Totals………………. 33  3  8  3   3  7 27 12   7

Score by Innings                    R  H  E

——————————————-

Somerset………… 000 030 001 -  4  8  0

Camden………….. 000 100 101 -  3  8  2

——————————————-

E – Walker, C(2); Abernathy, B(1). DP – Somerset 1; Camden 1. LOB – Somerset

8; Camden 7. 2B – Burke, J(4); Belcher, J(1); Smith, S(3); Spivey, J(4);

Chiaravollot(4). 3B – Bonvechio, B(2); Lydon, W(2). SH – Rodriguez, M;

Lydon, W.

Somerset               IP  H  R ER BB SO AB BF

———————————————–

Magrane, J……….  7.0  6  2  2  2  4 25 28

Prinz, B…………  1.0  1  0  0  0  1  4  4

Minix, T…………  1.0  1  1  1  1  2  4  5

Camden                 IP  H  R ER BB SO AB BF

———————————————–

Drese, R…………  7.0  7  3  3  2  4 27 30

Guerrero, J………  1.0  0  0  0  0  2  3  3

Thorpe, T………..  1.0  1  1  1  2  0  4  6

Win – Magrane, J (1-0).  Loss – Drese, R (1-3).  Save – Minix, T (5).

WP – Magrane, J(1).

Umpires – HP: Dave Perry  1B: Mayhue Edwards  3B: Dan Wilson

Start: 7:07 pm   Time: 2:36   Attendance: 1006

Weather: Sunny and cool

Game notes:

Next game pitchers:

Somerset – Bouknight (1-1)

Camden – Lawrence (2-0)

Game: CAM5120

York took an early 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Center fielder Kennard Jones singled and scored on an RBI fielder’s choice by right fielder Jason Aspito.

Somerset answered with seven runs in the bottom of the third inning. Shortstop Teuris Olivares doubled, center fielder Sean Smith walked, and right fielder Noah Hall drew a walk to load the bases. First baseman Josh Pressley then drew a bases loaded walk to plate Olivares to tie the game. Third baseman Jeff Nettles hit a two-run single to take the lead. After second baseman Matt Hagen drew a walk to load the bases again, Anderson followed with a grand slam (1) for a 7-1 lead.

York cut the lead to 7-2 with a run in the top of the fourth inning. Left fielder Ryan Goleski singled and later scored on a sacrifice fly by catcher Luis Taveras.

The Patriots added seven more runs to the lead in the bottom of the fourth inning. Smith, right fielder Mike Rodriguez, and Hall all singled to load the bases. Pressley followed with a grand slam (3) to right center field. Nettles and Hagen then singled and Brandon Johnson was pit in as a pinch runner for Nettles. Olivares followed with an RBI double and left fielder Jon Nelson hit an RBI single. Smith closed out the scoring with a sacrifice fly to make the score 14-2.

Somerset added a run in the bottom of the sixth inning on a bases loaded walk to Pressley and the final run on a solo home run by Rodriguez (1) for the 16-2 final.

Patriots starter Josh Miller (1-2) picked up the win, allowing two earned runs on five hits and seven strikeouts in six innings pitched. York starter Dave Gassner (0-3) suffered the loss, allowing 11 runs, four earned, on ten hits in three innings pitched.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Monday, May 18th when the Patriots return to TD Bank Ballpark for a 7:05 pm game against the Lancaster Barnstormers. The game includes Computer and Electronic Recycling Night courtesy of Village Office and Hannah Montana Night. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS ON-LINE!

The announced crowd of 6,411 at Citibank Park, were given the lead for good in the bottom of the seventh inning, when Johnny Hernandez launched a Jared Gothreaux (0-2) fastball over the right field fence.  The victory for Long Island (5-4) gave manager Gary Carter, his first victory at home.

“It was a nice win to come back after the tough loss last night”, said Ducks Manager Gary Carter.

The start of the game was not a positive one, as Long Island starter and Ronkonkoma native B.J. LaMura had a difficult time in the first inning.  He seemed to have trouble getting his pitches in and when he did, the Patriot bats connected.  Two runs came home as a result of a Jeff Nettles single to left field, and a Matt Hagen double that just stayed away from the third base line.

Once the first inning was over, LaMura settled in and retired 10 Patriots in a row, before Anthony Granato reached on an error in right field by Raul Gonzalez.  In five and one third innings, LaMura gave up five hits and walked two, while striking out 3.

“I thought he did real well.  I know with a lot of family here, he started tough, but he settled down after that”, said Ducks Manager Gary Carter.  “He has earned another start.”

After Somerset’s Gothreaux got through the first nine batters with out getting allowing a Long Island batter to reach base, the Ducks cut the deficit to one on a broken bat bloop single by Raul Gonzalez, scoring Ray Navarette.

Gothreaux got into another groove allowing only one more hit over the next two and two-third innings, before walking Raul Gonzalez, and then giving up the home run to Hernandez.

Joe Valentine pitched a scoreless 7^th before the Ducks took the lead, to earn his second victory of the season.  Dan Miceli pitched a hitless eighth and Bill Simas closed the game for his fourth save of the season.  For the Ducks, it gives them a chance for Carter to experience a ‘happy recap’.

“Each game is a battle”, said Carter, but knows that it is good to get some good home cooking.  “You always want to play good in front of the big home crowd.  We know that we will get 6,000 a night at home, and hopefully tomorrow, we will win the series.

A victory on a fireworks night is always fun for the fans and the players alike.  Note: There are 10 of these planned for this season.

Quacker Notes: Who is hot?  Outfielder Johnny Hernandez, a former Cardinals farmhand, is batting .500 before tonight’s game, with 2 doubles, 2 triples and 6 runs batted in.  Now, add a home run.  Who is not?  Lew Ford, the former Minnesota Twin, has struggled so far.  He is 5 for 29 to start the season. “He may be battling himself right now”, said Carter after the game; “But he is a major leaguer that has been successful, and I believe that he will get out of it.”  Preston Wilson had his hitting streak stopped at seven games.  Ray Navarette’s streak is now at eight.

Brian Adams (1-1) was rocky in the first inning, allowing three runs, but settled in to pitch five innings, scattering eight hits with five strikeouts. Paul Bush emerged in relief with three dominant innings, giving up just one hit and fanning four. Randy Leek (0-2) gave up six runs on 11 hits and took the loss of Long Island. Travis Minix pitched a scoreless ninth to earn his third save of the season.

Ray Navarrete opened the scoring for the Ducks with a no-doubter over the left field wall in the first. But the momentum would change along with the weather, as the bottom of the first inning was interrupted by a one hour, 26 minute rain delay. The Ducks added to their lead when play resumed on an RBI double by Johnny Hernandez to take a 3-0 lead after one.

Somerset struck back with runs in the second and third innings, before taking the lead with a two-run homer in the fifth from Matt Hagen. The Patriots padded their edge with two runs in the sixth on an RBI double from Sean Smith and run-scoring hit by Noah Hall.

The Ducks continue their homestand on Saturday when they host the defending league champion Somerset Patriots. Game time is 7:05 p.m., and the Citibank Park gates open at 6:05 p.m. Righthander and Long Island native B.J. LaMura makes the start for Long Island against Somerset’s Jared Gothreaux. Following the game, all fans in attendance will be treated to a Grucci Fireworks Extravaganza, courtesy of New York Community Bank. Fans unable to attend can tune into all the action on WNYG 1440 AM or online at www.liducks.com, with Ducks radio voice Chris King and David Weiss calling the play-by-play.

The Long Island Ducks play their home games at Citibank Park and are in their 10^th Anniversary Season in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. For further information, visit www.liducks.com, or call (631) 940-3825.

The Riversharks took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Second baseman Michael Abernathy doubled and scored on an RBI groundout by first baseman Vito Chiaravalloti.

Camden added two runs to the lead in the top of the third inning. Catcher Jason Jacobs doubled and scored on an error that allowed center fielder Christopher Walker to reach safely. Walker later scored on an error for a 3-0 lead.

The Patriots cut the lead to 3-2 in the bottom of the sixth inning. First baseman Josh Pressley singled and scored on a two-run home run by second baseman Matt Hagen (1).

Camden answered with two runs in the top of the seventh inning. Left fielder Wayne Lydon reached on an error and designated hitter Manny Mejia singled. After Jeffrey Vincent was put in as a pinch runner for Mejia, catcher Frederick Torres drove in Lydon with an RBI single. Vincent came around to score on a fielder’s choice that allowed Walker to reach first safely for a 5-2 lead.

Somerset cut the lead to one run again in the bottom of the seventh inning. Center fielder Sean Smith singled and scored on a two-run home run by designated hitter Noah Hall (1) to make the score 5-4.

The Riversharks put the game out of reach with four unearned runs on two Patriots errors in the top of the ninth inning.

Camden starter Nate Bump (1-0) picked up the win, allowing two earned runs on seven hits and five strikeouts in six innings pitched. Patriots starter Brian Adams (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing three runs, two earned, on four hits and four strikeouts in six innings pitched. Tracy Thorpe earned his first save of the season, pitching 1.1 scoreless innings with a strikeout.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue with a 1:35 pm game on Sunday, April 26th against the Camden Riversharks at TD Bank Ballpark. The first 1,500 kids in attendance will receive a Youth Jersey courtesy of Raritan Valley & Belle Mead Orthodontics. The game includes Kids Opening Day with an Autograph Session and a chance for kids to Run The Bases after the game. The Patriots will include Autism Awareness Day at the ballpark. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Patriots continued the celebration by defeating the Camden Riversharks 4-1 before 6,237 fans at TD Bank Ballpark.   The Patriots broke a 1-1 tie with three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning. Shortstop Anthony Granato walked, center fielder Sean Smith singled, and designated hitter Noah Hall followed with a two-run triple. Third baseman Jeff Nettles then singled home Hall for a 4-1 advantage.   The Patriots took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Hall walked, first baseman Josh Pressley walked, and second baseman Matt Hagen singled home Hall for the early lead.   Camden tied up the game with a run in the top of the fifth inning. Left fielder Wayne Lydon singled, stole second, and scored on an RBI single by shortstop Kyle Haines.   Patriots reliever Ryan Basner (1-0) picked up the win with a scoreless inning pitched with a strikeout. Camden reliever Shaun Parker (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing two earned runs on a hit in 0.1 innings pitched. Travis Minix earned the save with a scoreless ninth inning pitched.   Patriots starter Jim Magrane pitched 5.2 innings and allowed an earned run on four hits and three strikeouts in a no decision.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue with a 7:05 pm game on Friday, April 24^th against the Camden Riversharks at TD Bank Ballpark. The first 2,000 fans in attendance will receive a Championship T-Shirt courtesy of Middlesex County College. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, Click Here!

The Patriots broke a 1-1 tie with three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning. Shortstop Anthony Granato walked, center fielder Sean Smith singled, and designated hitter Noah Hall followed with a two-run triple. Third baseman Jeff Nettles then singled home Hall for a 4-1 advantage.

The Patriots took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Hall walked, first baseman Josh Pressley walked, and second baseman Matt Hagen singled home Hall for the early lead.

Camden tied up the game with a run in the top of the fifth inning. Left fielder Wayne Lydon singled, stole second, and scored on an RBI single by shortstop Kyle Haines.

Patriots reliever Ryan Basner (1-0) picked up the win with a scoreless inning pitched with a strikeout. Camden reliever Shaun Parker (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing two earned runs on a hit in 0.1 innings pitched. Travis Minix earned the save with a scoreless ninth inning pitched.

Patriots starter Jim Magrane pitched 5.2 innings and allowed an earned run on four hits and three strikeouts in a no decision.

The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue with a 7:05 pm game on Friday, April 24th against the Camden Riversharks at TD Bank Ballpark. The first 2,000 fans in attendance will receive a Championship T-Shirt courtesy of Middlesex County College.  For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700.

The victory gave Brian Tolberg (1-0) his first win of the season. Tolberg pitched six innings, allowing two runs on two hits and no walks. He struck out three in only his second start of the season.

Somerset made sure early on that its pitcher would not have to worry about run support. First Baseman Josh Pressley tied teammate Brandon Larson for the league lead and the team record for home runs with a three-RBI blast in the first inning. Pressley has 29 home runs this season and has tallied eight RBI so far in this series.

Barnstormer pitcher Ben Fritz (3-1) gave up six earned runs in his five-plus innings of work. Fritz allowed nine hits and three walks before being pulled in favor of Eric Ackerman.

The Patriots tacked on five more runs in the sixth, including two unearned against Ackerman on a throwing error by short stop Mike Caruso.

Lancaster’s only runs came in the third inning on catcher David Castillo’s two-run homer to center field.

Jason Richardson, Steve Kelly and Casey Cahill combined for three innings of shutout relief pitching for Somerset, but no save was awarded.

The offensive output by the home team was assisted by right fielder Ryan Radmanovich and catcher Tyler Anderson, who combined for two runs and two RBI. Third baseman Matt Hagen was 1-3, adding two stolen bases (30) for the Patriots.

Somerset closes out the home portion of the regular season Wednesday at 7:05 p.m. against the Barnstormers. The team finishes out the schedule in Newark starting Thursday. Wednesday is “Fan Appreciation Night” at Commerce Bank Park, featuring an appearance by the Zooperstars.

The Somerset Patriots jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning and, with pitcher Brian Adams (W, 11-7) on the mound for eight solid innings, never looked back through the 10-5 victory.

Adams, in his longest start of the season, faced 34 batters and gave up three runs on 10 hits. He walked one and struck out five.

His Lancaster counterpart, Mac Nelson (L, 1-1), did not fare as well. Nelson was pulled in the third inning after giving up five runs and loading the bases. In his two and two-thirds innings of work, Nelson walked four, struck out one and gave up six hits that lead to six earned runs.

The Patriots began the evening when Nelson walked lead off man Elliott Ayala and second baseman Teuris Olivares. Designated hitter Joe Burke, a new addition to the team, bunted the runners over for first baseman Josh Pressley, who doubled into right field for two RBI. Pressley went 3-4, with two runs and five RBI. Third baseman Matt Hagen singled to left, scoring Pressley. Hagen then stole second base, and recent Somerset addition Anthony Granato looped a single into right field, sending Hagan home. Catcher Travis Anderson ended the inning when he slapped a single off of the short stop’s glove and left fielder Mike Woods threw Granato out at the plate.

The Barnstormers refused to take a dive, though. Lancaster threatened in the third inning, sending four base runners against Adams, but none were able to score. In the fifth inning, center fielder Gary Harris hit a fielder’s choice single, bringing Argenis Tavarez in for the first Barnstormer point of the evening.

Lancaster tacked on two more runs in the sixth, including an RBI triple by second baseman Lloyd Turner. With the hit, Turner set the Atlantic League single season record for triples with 12.

The Patriots answered back with a four-run eighth inning. Somerset recorded four hits and four runs (three earned) off relief pitcher Wes Wilkerson, making the score 10-3.

John Hunton came in the ninth to close the game for the Patriots. Lancaster instead rallied when Hunton walked Tavarez and Wood. DH Matt LeCroy doubled off the right field wall, scoring both runners. When he crossed the plate, Woods set the single season record for runs scored at 114, besting Billy Hall’s former record of 113. The rally ended when the next batter, right fielder Bryan Sabatella, grounded into a 6-3 double play. Hunton did not qualify for a save.

The Barnstormers were led by Woods, who was 3-4 with a walk and a run. Along with Pressley’s big performance, the Patriots were helped by Olivares, who went 2-4 with one walk, two runs and one RBI. The RBI came with the bases loaded in the third, extending Olivares’ streak to nine RBI in his nine appearances this season with the bases loaded.

Tuesday, the two teams match up again in Bridgewater. The 7:05 p.m. start features Ben Fritz (3-0) for the Barnstormers against Brian Tolberg (0-0) of the Patriots on “Irish Night,” “Halloween Night,” and “Rally Towel Night.”

CENTRAL ISLIP, NY — When the Ducks collectively drove to the ballpark Sunday morning, the playoff picture looked murky. Six losses in the past seven games, including a three-game losing streak, cut the Flock’s lead in the Liberty Division standings to just a half-game entering a doubleheader against York.

But Randy Leek helped the Ducks take the opener and a late rally gave them an extra-inning win, salvaging a 3-6 record on the road trip. That sweep propelled the Ducks to a late season surge that lost momentum Thursday night after it blew a four-run lead.

Staff ace Randy Leek fell apart in the sixth and the lineup failed to push across any more runs after the fourth inning as the Patriots averted a four-game sweep with a 6-4 win. The Ducks saw its five-game winning streak end along with a chance to post its second consecutive four-game sweep over Somerset.

Southern Maryland defeated Newark, cutting the Ducks lead to just 2 ½ games in the Liberty Division with 10 regular season contests remaining.

“You can’t think about clinch or think about where you’re going to do it,” manager Dave LaPoint said. “It’s one game; one-inning at a time right now. If we look too far ahead, we’ll get into a bad rut. I don’t think anyone is looking past tomorrow.”

Leek was on his way to becoming the first Atlantic League pitcher to win 12 games this year before breaking down following five scoreless. Nursing a 4-0 lead, the Levittown native loaded the bases to start the sixth before striking out Teuris Olivares.

Brandon Larson, who hit three homers and drove in five runs in a loss to the Ducks the previous game, cleared the bases with a three-run double into the left-centerfield gap.

Matt Hagen completed the comeback attempt, ripping a one-out RBI single to center off Tony Price (0-1) to build a 5-4 Somerset lead. Hagen’s hit scored Larson and allowed Somerset to win on Long Island for the first time in eight games. The Ducks magic number to reach the playoffs remained stagnant at nine, meaning any combination of nine wins or Southern Maryland losses would secure a postseason appearance.

Set-up man Jason Richardson used his fastball to neutralize the Ducks last rally after walking Jamie Pogue and allowing a single to Haverbusch to start the eighth. Dennis Donovan, who entered the game for the injured Juan Francia, failed in three attempts to move the runners over, striking out on a bunt attempt.

Ray Navarrete also struck out on a heater and Pete Rose Jr. hit a soft pop fly to center to end the threat. Richardson (9-2) struck out three in two innings to get the win.

The Ducks jumped on Somerset starter Brian Tollberg early, scoring two in the third thanks to Bryant Nelson’s RBI fielder’s choice that plated Juan Francia. Shortstop Elliot Ayala’s throwing error on the double play attempt skipped past first base, allowing Ray Navarrete to score from second base.

Kevin Haverbusch expanded the lead the next inning, taking reliever Josh Brey’s fastball over the wall in left for a two-run shot. His 12th homer of the season made it 4-0.

If Leek (11-3) maintains his normal rest, he will get two more starts, giving him a chance to set the franchise record for single season victories. He still needs one more to tie Pat Ahearne’s franchise record of 12 victories, set in 2006. The southpaw is on pace to pitch the final game of the regular season if it a must-win scenario.

“He pitched good but he’s coming back a day early,” said LaPoint, who pitched Leek on three days’ rest. “We still had a chance to win the game. The effort was there. It’s tough to sweep them two series in a row.”

The loss dropped the Ducks home record to 41-27. That stands in contrast to a 25-37 road ledger. LaPoint’s team will now play its final three games at Citibank Park before ending the season with a three-game set in Camden and a four-game set against Bridgeport.

Considering the road woes and the fact the Bluefish are just 4 1/2 games back, the regular season finale Sept. 21 could be suspenseful. But LaPoint insisted the disparity in home vs. road record isn’t causing him sleepless nights.

“We have the type of team where home or road doesn’t make a difference,” LaPoint said. “Stats really don’t matter at this time. They are a lot of people playing at a higher level. All throughout the year, you have players going in and out. You’re in flux most of the year.

“Now you know who you got and who you’re going with. So it shouldn’t matter.”

Should the Ducks clinch a playoff spot for the fifth consecutive season, Game 1 of the best-of-three first-round series would be held at Citibank Park on Sept. 23 with the final two games held at Camden’s Campbell’s Field. The Riversharks own the home field advantage.

The Patriots took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Shortstop Elliott Ayala was hit by a pitch, moved to second on a sacrifice bunt, and scored on an RBI single by first baseman Josh Pressley.

Bridgeport tied up the game with a run in the top of the third inning. Designated hitter Wilson Batista singled and later scored on an RBI single by shortstop Alex Prieto.

Somerset regained the lead with two runs in the bottom of the third inning. Left fielder Mike Lockwood singled, third baseman Matt Hagen singled, and Radmanovich followed with an RBI single. Hagen would come home on a double play that gave the Patriots a 3-1 lead.

The Bluefish cut the lead to one with a run in the top of the fourth inning on a solo home run by right fielder Ryan Bear (8).

The Patriots scored three runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Pressley singled, Lockwood singled, and Radmanovich then hit a three-run home run (6) to make the score 6-2.

Somerset added a run in the bottom of the fifth inning. Ayala walked and scored on an RBI double by second baseman Teuris Olivares for a 7-2 advantage.

The Patriots broke the game open even more with ten runs in the bottom of the sixth inning. Lockwood single, Hagen singled, and catcher Travis Anderson drew a walk to load the bases. Center fielder Sean Smith then drove in two runs with a double. Ayala’s RBI single plated Anderson and Olivares singled home Smith. With the bases still loaded, Pressley, Lockwood, and Hagen drew back-to-back-to back walks to keep the bases loaded. Radmanovich then cleared the bases with his second home run of the game, a grand slam (7) over the train tracks in right field for a 17-2 lead.

Bridgeport added four runs in the last two innings to make it a 17-6 final score. Patriots starter Brian Adams (10-6) picked up the win, allowing two runs, one earned, on five hits and nine strikeouts in six innings pitched. Bluefish starter Mark Romanczuk (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing three earned runs on eight hits in three innings pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home on Monday night with a 6:05 pm game against the Camden Riversharks. The game includes a Labor Day Fireworks Extravaganza presented by News 12 New Jersey. Great seats are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Patriots struck first with three runs in the top of the first inning to take an early 3-0 lead. Shortstop Teuris Olivares ripped a one out solo home run (6) to left and after third baseman Brandon Larson drew a walk, first baseman Josh Pressley crushed a two run home run to right center, his league leading 26th home run of the season.

The Blue Crabs answered with two runs in the bottom of the second inning to make it 3-2 when second baseman Chris Maples hit a two run home run (17) to left after a lead off single to left by third baseman Patrick Osborn.

Somerset added a run in the top of the fourth inning to extend their lead to 4-2 when catcher Jason Belcher ripped a two out double off the center field wall and scored on an RBI single to center by leftfielder Elliott Ayala.

The Patriots rallied for three runs in the top of the fifth inning to take a 7-2 lead. Olivares led off with a single to left and moved to second on a one out single to right by Pressley. Rightfielder Matt Hagen then lined a RBI single to center that plated Olivares and after a Blue Crabs throwing error, catcher Jason Belcher followed with a two run single to center that scored both Pressley and Hagen.

Southern Maryland scored four runs in the bottom of the eighth inning to cut the Patriots lead to 7-6. The Blue Crabs loaded the bases on a lead off double to left center by rightfielder John Ramistella, a single to left by designated hitter James Shanks and a walk by Osborn. Maples then cleared the bases with a grand slam home run (18) to left, his second of the game.

Patriots’ starter Aaron Fultz (4-4) picked up the win, allowing two runs on four hits while striking out six and walking four in six innings of work. Blue Crabs’ starter Jonathan Connolly (3-5) suffered the loss, allowing seven runs, six earned, on seven hits while walking two and striking out four in 4.1 innings pitched. Patriots’ closer Brian Reith pitched the final 1.2 scoreless innings for his 11th save of the year.

With the win the Patriots improved to 18-22 in the second half and 58-52 overall on 2008 season while the Blue Crabs dropped to 21-19 and 57-53.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Tuesday, August 26th when the Patriots return to Commerce Bank Ballpark for a 7:05 pm game against the York Revolution. The game includes Rulers (1st 1,500 Kids) presented by Staffing Alternatives. Great seats are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

Carl Everett continued his torrid hitting, moving up all three Triple Crown categories by blasting a solo homer to start the sixth. Everett’s 23rd homer off Steve Keller tied the seven-inning contest at 2. Ray Navarrete followed with a double and advanced to third on Richard Hidalgo’s groundout.

Damian Rolls saw his 22-game hitting streak end in ignominious fashion, striking out to waste a quality chance. Rolls finished 0-3, though Sandora picked him up by lacing an opposite-field single to right to plate Navarrete and open a one-run lead.

By Atlantic League rules, twinight twin-bills consist of two seven-inning games. Ducks starter Abe Alvarez stayed in to close it out before nearly giving away the lead. Somerset’s Travis Anderson belted a double to start the seventh, advancing to third on a sacrifice bunt.

Alvarez, who is emerging as a key rotation member, induced the biggest out of the game by forcing Elliot Ayala to ground out. Edgardo Alfonzo actually needed to leave his feet at shortstop to field the bounce off Ayala’s bat, but gloved it and fired a strike to Rose at first for the second out. Sean Smith flied out to shallow right, allowing the Ducks to extend its winning streak to five.

“Abe coming back the way he did, that was a great game he pitched,” manager Dave LaPoint said. “They’re doing it at the right time. The pitchers are going late into the games and saving the bullpen.

“They’re all doing their jobs right now.”

Somerset pulled ahead of the pitchers’ duel in the sixth. Alvarez had retired 10 of the last 11 batters he faced before Matt Hagen lifted a full-count offering into the Patriots bullpen in left. The two-out solo shot put the visitors up 2-1.

Alvarez’s only other mistake came in the third when Smith’s RBI single plated Vito Chiaravalloti to open the scoring. The southpaw still improved to 6-1 and lowered his ERA from the 3.58 mark with which he entered. Since coming to Long Island in trade with Camden for Jamal Strong, Alvarez has made the transition from reliever to starter. The former Red Sox pitcher notched his first complete game of the season, striking out five and walking three.

Everett started the evening just nine RBIs behind Pat Osborn for the league lead. The switch-hitting veteran also was fourth in average and moved just two homers behind Somerset’s Josh Pressley for the Atlantic League home run lead. The former major league All-Star still has an outside chance of the Atlantic League’s first Triple Crown with almost five weeks remaining in the regular season schedule.

The Patriots took a 4-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Center fielder Sean Smith singled and third baseman Brandon Larson was hit by a pitch. First baseman Josh Pressley followed with an RBI double to score Smith. Left fielder Matt Hagen then hit a two-run double and scored on an RBI single by catcher Jason Belcher.

York cut the lead in half with two runs in the top of the second inning. Third baseman Matt Padgett walked, designated hitter Matt Dryer singled, and both runners scored on a two run single by shortstop Keoni DeRenne to make the score 4-2.

Somerset added to the lead with a run in the bottom of the fourth inning. Smith singled and later scored on an RBI double by shortstop Teuris Olivares.

The Patriots made the score 7-2 with two more runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. Hagen doubled and scored on an RBI single by right fielder Elliott Ayala. Ayala would come around to score on an error.

Patriots starter Jim Magrane (5-9) picked up the win, allowing two earned runs on four hits in seven innings pitched. York starter Wayne Franklin (6-5) suffered the loss, allowing seven runs, six earned, on ten hits in six innings pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 5:05 pm game against the York Revolution on Sunday evening. The game includes T-Shirts (1st 2,000) courtesy of Flemington Department Store and Olympic Night. Great seats are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Patriots broke a scoreless tie with five runs in the top of the third inning to take a 5-0 lead. Somerset loaded the bases when second baseman Gera Alvarez reached on a bunt fielder’s choice to the mound, a one out single to left by centerfielder Elliott Ayala and a walk by shortstop Teuris Olivares. Leftfielder Michael Ryan then drew a bases loaded walk to force in Alvarez and designated hitter Josh Pressley followed by crushing a grand slam home run (14) to left that cleared the bases.

The Riversharks answered with a run in the bottom of the third inning to make it 5-1 when third baseman Gabe Suarez hit a lead off single to center, advanced to second on a single off the left field wall by catcher Cody Collet and came around to score on a one out RBI single to right by first baseman Ron Davenport.

Somerset added a pair of runs in the top of the fifth inning to extend their lead to 7-1. The Patriots loaded the bases when Olivares drew a lead off walk, Pressley reached on a fielder’s choice to shortstop and a hit-by-pitch to third baseman Matt Hagen. Olivares then scored on RBI groundout by rightfielder Ryan Radmanovich and Pressley would scamper home on a wild pitch later in the inning.

The Patriots added four more runs in the top of the seventh inning to take a commanding 11-1 lead. Pressley ripped a lead off double off the left field wall and came around to score when Hagen followed with a RBI double down the left field line. Somerset then loaded the bases when Radmanovich drew a walk and first baseman Vito Chairavalloti lined a single to left. Catcher Jason Belcher was hit-by-a-pitch to force in Hagen and then Alvarez hit a sacrifice fly to center that plated Radmanovich. Chiaravavalloti would score on a one out sacrifice fly to left by Olivares.

Camden got two runs back in the bottom of the eighth inning to cut the Patriots lead to 11-3. Shortstop Bobby Gandolfo led off with a single to center and moved into scoring position on a two out single to center by designated hitter Tyler Von Schell. Leftfielder Sheldon Fulse drove them both in with a two run double into the left field corner.

Somerset scored their final run in the top of the ninth inning to make it 12-3. The Patriots loaded the bases on three straight walks to Belcher, Alvarez and Ayala. Olivares then followed with a sacrifice fly to left that plated Belcher.

Patriots’ starter Jim Magrane (4-6) picked up the win, allowing one run on eight hits while striking out six and walking one in seven innings of work. Riversharks’ starter Frederico Baez (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing five runs on three hits while walking four and striking out one in 2.2 innings pitched.

With the win the Patriots improved to 3-2 in the second half and 43-32 overall on 2008 season while the Riversharks dropped to 1-4 and 41-34.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Wednesday, July 16th when the 2008 Atlantic League All-Star Game takes place at Commerce Bank Ballpark. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Patriots broke a 2-2 tie with two runs in the top of the sixth inning to take a 4-2 lead. Designated hitter Josh Pressley drew a lead off walk, advanced to second on a one out single to right by rightfielder Ryan Radmanovich and then stole third. Catcher Travis Anderson drove in Pressley with a RBI hit-and-run single to right which allowed Radmanovich to move to third and then second baseman David Housel delivered a sacrifice fly to right that plated Radmanovich.

Somerset added an insurance run in the top of the ninth inning to extend their lead to 5-2 when centerfielder Elliott Ayala drew a one out walk, stole second and third and then scored on a one out RBI single to right by shortstop Teuris Olivares.

Camden struck first with a run in the bottom of the first inning to take an early 1-0 lead when centerfielder Nic Jackson drew a lead off walk, advanced to second on a walk to leftfielder Sheldon Fulse and scored on a RBI single to center by rightfielder L.J. Biernbaum.

The Patriots got on the scoreboard with a pair of runs in the top of the third inning to take a 2-1 lead. Olivares led off by smacking a solo home run (3) to right to tie the game. Pressley then legged out a two out double to shallow center field and came around to score when first baseman Matt Hagen followed with a RBI double to right center.

The Riversharks tied the game at 2-2 with a run in the bottom of the fourth inning when third baseman Gabe Suarez hit a two out solo home run (1) to left.

Patriots’ starter Josh Brey (4-0) picked up the win, allowing two runs on five hits while striking out two and walking four in five innings of work. Riversharks’ starter Kevin Mannix (0-6) suffered the loss, allowing four runs on eight hits while walking one and striking out three in 5.1 innings pitched. Patriots’ closer Brian Reith pitched a 1-2-3 scoreless ninth inning for his fourth save of the season.

With the win the Patriots improved to 2-2 in the second half and 42-32 overall on 2008 season while the Riversharks dropped to 1-3 and 41-33.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Wednesday, July 16th when the 2008 Atlantic League All-Star Game takes place at Commerce Bank Ballpark. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Bears took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Second baseman Bobby Hill walked and later scored on an RBI single by shortstop Ramon Castro.

Somerset answered with a run in the bottom of the second inning. Right fielder Ryan Radmanovich doubled and scored on an RBI single by designated hitter Vito Chiaravalloti.

The Patriots took the lead with four runs on three home runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. First baseman Josh Pressley (12) and second baseman Matt Hagen (11) hit back-to-back home runs. After Chiaravalloti singled, center fielder Sean Smith hit a two-run home run (8) for a 5-1 lead.

Somerset extended the lead on a solo home run by third baseman Brandon Larson (14) in the bottom of the fifth inning.

Magrane (3-6) picked up the win, allowing just one earned run on five hits in nine innings. Bears starter Pat Stanley (8-2) suffered the loss, allowing six earned runs on nine hits in six innings pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Wednesday, July 16th when the 2008 Atlantic League All-Star Game takes place at Commerce Bank Ballpark. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Patriots took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Center fielder Sean Smith doubled and scored on an RBI double by shortstop Teuris Olivares.

Somerset scored three runs in the bottom of the third inning. Olivares walked, stole second, and scored on an RBI single by first baseman Josh Pressley. Second baseman Matt Hagen followed with a two-run home run to center (10) for a 4-0 lead.

The Patriots added three runs to the lead in the bottom of the fourth inning. Designated hitter David Housel walked and scored on a two-run home run by Smith (7). Left fielder Elliott Ayala then singled and scored on an RBI single by third baseman Brandon Larson for a 7-0 lead.

Newark got on the board with a run in the top of the fifth inning. Third baseman Mike Just walked and scored on an RBI double by center fielder Keith Reed.

The Bears cut the lead to 7-3 with two runs in the top of the sixth inning. Shortstop Ramon Castro reached on an error and first baseman Randall Simon singled. Both runners scored on errors.

Patriots starter Josh Brey (3-0) picked up the win, allowing an earned run on six hits in five innings pitched. Bears starter Frank Gracesqui (0-4) suffered the loss, allowing seven earned runs on eight hits in 3.2 innings pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 6:05 pm on Sunday night against the Newark Bears. The game includes a Post Game Fireworks Show presented by John Maltese Iron Works, Inc. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

Somerset tied up the game 6-6 in the bottom of the ninth inning on a solo home run by third baseman Brandon Larson (10).

The Ducks broke a 5-5 tie with a run in the top of the ninth inning. Shortstop Dennis Donovan doubled and scored on an RBI double by second baseman Ray Navarrete for a 6-5 lead.

Trailing 5-3 in the bottom of the eighth inning, Somerset rallied to tie up the game at 5-5. Left fielder Matt Hagen doubled and scored on a two-run home run by right fielder Ryan Radmanovich (3).

The Ducks rallied to break a 3-3 tie in the top of the eighth inning. Designated hitter Carl Everett singled and was pinch run for by Donaldo Mendez. Right fielder Jay Gibbons followed with an RBI double and later scored on a fielder’s choice for a 5-3 advantage.

The Ducks took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Navarrete singled and scored on an RBI single by Everett.

Somerset answered with a run in the bottom of the first inning on a solo home run by center fielder Sean Smith (4).

Long Island regained the lead with a run in the top of the third inning. Center fielder Nook Logan tripled and scored on an RBI single by Sanchez.

The Patriots made it a 3-2 game with two runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Larson singled and scored on a two-run home run by first baseman Josh Pressley (9), his fifth straight game with a home run.

The Ducks tied up the game in the top of the fifth inning. Sanchez singled and scored on an RBI double by Everett for a 3-3 tie.

Ducks reliever Joe Valentine (3-1) picked up the win, allowing an earned run on three hits in two innings pitched. Patriots reliever Brock Till (0-2) suffered the loss, allowing an earned run on two hits in an inning pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home on Wednesday night with a 7:05 pm game against the Long Island Ducks. The first 2,000 fans will receive a Ballpark History Card Strip courtesy of DeVry University. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Patriots got on the board in the bottom of the first inning. Center fielder Sean Smith doubled and scored on a two-run home run by designated hitter Josh Pressley (8). It was the fourth straight game that Pressley hit a home run.

Somerset added two runs to the lead in the bottom of the third inning. Shortstop Teuris Olivares doubled and scored on a two-run home run by third baseman Brandon Larson (9) to give the Patriots a 4-0 lead.

The Patriots continued to extend the lead with two runs in the bottom of the sixth inning. Left fielder Matt Hagen singled and scored on a two-run home run by first baseman Vito Chiaravalloti for a 6-0 advantage.

Van Hekken (3-1) picked up the win, allowing just two hits and six strikeouts in eight innings. Ducks starter Jon Searles (1-2) suffered the loss, allowing four earned runs on five hits and four strikeouts in 3.1 innings pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home on Tuesday night with a 7:05 pm game against the Long Island Ducks The game includes Beach balls for the first 1,000 kids in attendance and Health Fair Night courtesy of Somerset Medical Center. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Patriots took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the second inning. Third baseman Matt Hagen singled, stole second, and later scored on an RBI groundout by second baseman Teuris Olivares.

Somerset extended the lead to 4-0 in the bottom of the fourth inning. Designated hitter Brandon Larson reached on an error and scored on first baseman Josh Pressley’s two run home run (7) to center field. Pressley has hit a home run in each of the last three games. The third run was scored on a fielder’s choice RBI.

The Bluefish got on the board with a run on a solo home run by third baseman Jesse Horrelbeke (13) in the top of the ninth inning.

Patriots starter Jim Magrane (1-6) picked up his first win of the season, allowing an earned run on five hits and nine strikeouts in eight innings pitched. Bridgeport starter Barry Hertzler (3-3) suffered the loss, allowing four runs, two earned, on eight hits in eight innings. Casey Cahill earned his first save of the season with a scoreless ninth inning pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home on Monday night with a 7:05 pm game against the Long Island Ducks The game includes Faith Night courtesy of Somerset Council and Bark In The Park Night. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Bluefish took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Center fielder Travis Ezi singled and scored on an RBI double by third baseman Luis Lopez.

Somerset took a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the third inning. Second baseman David Housel walked, center fielder Sean Smith singled, and shortstop Teuris Olivares drove in both runners on a double. Third baseman Brandon Larson followed with an RBI double to plate Olivares.

The Patriots opened up the game with seven runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Left fielder Matt Hagen reached on a fielder’s choice and scored on an RBI double by catcher Jason Belcher. After Housel drew a walk, Smith cleared the bases with a three-run home run (3). Olivares then singled and stole second. First baseman Josh Pressley and designated hitter Vito Chiaravalloti each drew walks to load the bases. Right fielder Ryan Radmanovich drew a bases loaded walk to plate Olivares and Hagen followed with a two-run double to give Somerset a 10-1 lead.

Bridgeport cut the lead to 10-4 with three runs in the top of the sixth inning. First baseman Ryan Bear singled, shortstop Bobby Darula reached on a fielder’s choice, and shortstop Alex Prieto followed with a three-run home run (4).

Somerset added another three runs to the lead in the bottom of the eighth inning on a home run by Pressley (6), an RBI single by Belcher, and a bases loaded walk by Smith.

Patriots starter Josh Brey (2-0) picked up the win, allowing four earned runs on eight hits and five strikeouts in six innings pitched. Bluefish starter Ryan DiPietro (1-3) suffered the loss, allowing nine earned runs on seven hits in 3.2 innings pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home on Sunday afternoon against the Bridgeport Bluefish at 1:35 pm. The first 2,000 fans in attendance will receive an All-Star Cap courtesy of Tender Smiles 4Kids.Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

Trailing 4-3 in the top of the ninth inning, the Bluefish scored two runs to win 5-4. Center fielder Travis Ezi singled, second baseman Henry Mateo walked, and third baseman Luis Lopez followed with a two-run game-winning double.

The Patriots broke a 3-3 tie in the bottom of the eighth inning. Left fielder Matt Hagen tripled and scored on a sacrifice fly by shortstop Elliott Ayala for a 4-3 lead

Bridgeport took a 1-0 lead in the first at bat of the game on a solo home run by Ezi (9).

The Patriots answered with a solo home run in the bottom of the second inning from Hagen (7) to tie the game at 1-1.

Bridgeport took the lead in the top of the fifth inning. Shortstop Alex Prieto walked, Ezi singled, and Lopez singled to load the bases. First baseman Jesse Hoorelbeke then drew a bases loaded walk to score Prieto and right fielder Ryan Bear had an RBI groundout to score Ezi to make the score 3-1.

In the bottom of the sixth inning Somerset had back-to-back solo homeruns by right fielder Ryan Radmanovich (2) and Hagen (8), his second of the game, to tie the score at 3-3.

Bluefish reliever Franklin Perez (2-1) picked up the win, allowing an earned run on one hit in an inning pitched. Patriots reliever Brock Till (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing an earned run on one hit in 0.1 innings pitched. Eddy Ramos earned his third save of the season for the Bluefish with a scoreless ninth inning pitched.

Patriots starter Steve Kelly allowed three earned runs on five hits and seven strikeouts in seven innings in a no decision. Bridgeport starter Eric DuBose allowed three earned runs on nine hits and three strikeouts in seven innings for a no decision.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home on Friday night with a 7:05 pm game against the Bridgeport Bluefish. The game includes Fireworks courtesy of Celgene Cellular Therapeutics. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Bluefish struck first with a run in the bottom of the first inning to take an early 1-0 lead when second baseman Henry Mateo hit a one out solo home run (2) to left.

The Patriots answered with three runs in the top of the second inning to take a 3-1 lead. First baseman Vito Chiaravalloti led off by blooping a double down the right field line and came around to score on a two out RBI single up the middle by catcher Travis Anderson. Second baseman David Housel followed with a bloop single to left center and then shortstop Elliott Ayala ripped a two run double down the left field line that plated both Anderson and Housel.

Somerset plated five more runs in the top of the fourth inning to make it an 8-1 lead. The Patriots loaded the bases on a double off the left field wall by centerfielder Matt Hagen, a fielder’s choice to third off the bat of Anderson and a walk by Housel. Ayala followed by lining a two run single to center that to score Hagen and Anderson and then leftfielder Michael Ryan drew a walk. Third baseman Brandon Larson then hit a RBI fielder’s choice to shortstop where the Bluefish committed an error which allowed Housel and Ayala to score. After a two out single to left by Chiaravalloti, rightfielder Ryan Radmanovich delivered an RBI single to right that plated Ryan.

The Patriots tacked on a run in the top of the sixth inning to extend their lead to 9-1 when Chiaravalloti crushed a mammoth two out solo home run (8) to left.

Bridgeport scored their final run in the bottom of the ninth inning to make it 9-2 when catcher Brian Munhall led off with a single to center, moved to second on a single to right by leftfielder Bobby Darula and scored on a one out RBI single to left center by centerfielder Travis Ezi.

Patriots’ starter Andy Van Hekken (2-1) picked up the win, allowing one run on seven hits while striking out nine and walking none over seven innings. Bluefish starter Rafael Bergstrom (3-2) suffered the loss, allowing eight runs, six earned, on nine hits while walking two and striking out three in four innings of work.

With the win the Patriots improved to 28-18 on 2008 season while the Bluefish dropped to 24-23.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Thursday, June 19th when the Patriots return to Commerce Bank Ballpark for a 7:05 pm game against the Bridgeport Bluefish. The first 1,000 fathers will receive a Ballpark Photo Frame courtesy of ImClone Systems. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

Somerset broke a 5-5 tie with a run in the top of the tenth inning to take a 6-5 lead when third baseman Matt Hagen led off with a solo home run (5) to left.

The Patriots scored an unearned run in the top of the second inning to take an early 1-0 lead. Rightfielder Ryan Radmanovich drew a walk, advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt and a fielder’s choice and came around to score on a Revolution fielding error on a line drive to third off the bat of centerfielder Sean Smith.

Somerset added a run in the top of the third inning to extend their lead to 2-0 when leftfielder Michael Ryan led off with a single to right, advanced to third on a single off the left field wall by designated hitter Brandon Larson and scored on a sacrifice fly to left by first baseman Josh Pressley.

The Revolution rallied for three runs in the bottom of the fourth inning to take a 3-2 lead. First baseman Matt Dryer drew a lead off walk and came around to score on a two run home run (4) to left by centerfielder Matt Esquivel. Designated hitter Tyler Von Schell drew a one out walk, advanced to third on a double down the left field line by third baseman Jake Daubert and scored on a RBI double to left center by catcher Luis Taveras.

The Patriots answered with three runs in the top of the sixth inning to retake the lead at 5-3. Radmanovich led off by being hit by a pitch, he advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt and score on a RBI ground rule double to right by second baseman David Housel. Shortstop Elliott Ayala then lined a two out RBI single to left that plated Housel and Ryan followed with a RBI double to left center that scored Ayala.

York tied the game at 5-5 with a pair of runs in the bottom of the seventh inning when shortstop Keoni DeRenne hit a two out double down the right field line and came around to score on a two run home run (2) to left by leftfielder Chris Ashby.

Patriots’ reliever Casey Cahill (3-1) picked up the win, throwing a scoreless 0.1 of an inning allowing one intentional walk. Revolution reliever Nick McCurdy (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing one run on three hits while walking none and striking out two in 2.1 innings of work. Patriots’ reliever Brian Reith pitched a scoreless ninth for his first save of the 2008 season.

With the win the Patriots improved to 27-17 on 2008 season while the Revolution dropped to 16-29.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Thursday, June 19th when the Patriots return to Commerce Bank Ballpark for a 7:05 pm game against the Bridgeport Bluefish. The first 1,000 fathers will receive a Ballpark Photo Frame courtesy of ImClone Systems. Tickets are available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

The Patriots broke a 1-1 tie in the bottom of the tenth inning. Right fielder Sean Smith was hit by a pitch, shortstop Gera Alvarez was hit by a pitch, first baseman Josh Pressley walked to load the bases, and left fielder Matt Hagen hit a two-out game winning single for the 2-1 final.

The Blue Crabs took a 1-0 lead in the top of the fourth inning on a solo home run by center fielder Jeremy Owens (3).

Somerset answered with a run in the bottom of the sixth inning. Shortstop Gera Alvarez drew a walk, advanced to second on a passed ball, and scored on an RBI double by third baseman Brandon Larson to even up the score at 1-1.

Patriots reliever Jason Richardson (7-0) picked up the win with a scoreless inning pitched. Blue Crabs reliever Derrick DePriest (1-4) suffered the loss, allowing an earned run on a hit in 0.2 innings pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue at home on Friday night with a 7:05 pm game against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. The first 1,500 fans in attendance will receive a Ballpark Replica courtesy of Commerce Bank. Great seats are still available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.

Leek responded by pitching eight strong innings to pick up the victory May 30 in Southern Maryland. The Levittown native did one better last night, tossing a complete game. But the Ducks’ offense failed to capitalize on his outing, getting stymied by Camden’s Brian Reith in a 3-1 loss to the Patriots at Citibank Park.

After racking up 26 runs the past three games, the Ducks could only muster seven hits against Reith. The right-hander’s only blemish came on Kevin Haverbusch’s sixth-inning RBI single. Reith improved to 3-0, striking out three in a brisk 2:19 contest.

“He really came at us hard with a lot of hard stuff,” LaPoint said about Reith after he induced 12 fly outs. “He won the game tonight. He shut the door.”

Leek also hummed through Somerset’s lineup. The exception was hot-hitting Brandon Larson, who recorded two of his team’s seven hits and scored twice. Larson entered batting .331 and started the second by lining a single. A walk and a sacrifice bunt moved both runners into scoring position. Matt Hagen lifted a sacrifice fly to plate Larson and David Housel drove in the second run.

Plate umpire Kareh Valentine, who was behind the plate during a 20-walk game at Citibank Park last month, called a couple of borderline pitches balls early in the game. Leek looked agitated on the mound and said afterward some of those early calls contributed to his shaky start.

“I just let my emotions get to myself there,” Leek said. “I let some calls that I thought were bad get to my head and I didn’t make good pitches. That’s my own fault. That’s me letting the team down and I can’t do that.

“I just need to start throwing better early in games. It’s been my downfall this year and it hurt us again.”

Added LaPoint: “Leek got a couple of balls up there in the second inning and they happened to hit them where we weren’t standing.”

Larson added a key insurance run, ripping a solo homer to left in the fourth to extend the lead to 3-0.

“He doesn’t swing at bad pitches,” Leek said. “He doesn’t swing at balls. He’s a good hitter and keeps the bat in the zone a long time. I just fell behind him.”

LaPoint said working with Leek during side sessions helped improve his delivery. The tinkering resulted in a two-game stretch when the southpaw has allowed just four runs in 17 innings.

“He was just rushing a little bit,” LaPoint said. “I think his arm might have been tired and he was trying to do a little more with his body. We had to slow his motion down a little bit and get him to throw the pitches where he wants them.”

Considering three of the starters carried ERAs over six into the contest and Leek’s outing helped preserve an overworked bullpen. Leek’s ledger fell to 3-2 despite walking just two in front of 5,416 fans.

“We had a good work session when we went to Lancaster and got all the kinks ironed out and he’s been able to put it into play the last two starts,” LaPoint said. “Another typical great job by Randy. The bullpen thanks him.”

The Ducks still dropped below the .500 mark, falling to 19-20 and back into last place in the Liberty Division. Brock Till pitched the final two innings to pick up the save.

Before the contest, the Ducks signed Carlos Castillo. The 6-3, 245-pound righty pitched for the Road Warriors last season and will join the rotation. Castillo adds depth the staff. Clint Nageotte is bothered by a knee injury and Jamal Strong was placed on the inactive list to attend to personal issues.

“We desperately needed a spot starter,” LaPoint said. “He throws everything from an upper-80s fastball to a slow curve that is about 50 miles per hour. He throws strikes and that’s all we’re going to ask him to do.”

Mike Myers, who started the season pitching for a Long Island-based semi-pro team, was rocked in his three innings of work. The Patriots tagged him for 10 runs (seven earned), 10 hits and three walks. By the fourth inning, every Somerset starter reached base safely and scored at least one run with the exception of Matt Hagen.

Atrocious defense didn’t help matters. The Ducks committed three errors and could have been charged with at least five as they dropped to 18-19 and into last place in the Liberty Division. The Ducks have now alternated wins and losses in the past eight games and the club’s last winning streak of over two games was May 21.

Manager Dave LaPoint talked with Donaldo Mendez in his office following the game and citied the club’s overall effort as unsatisfactory. Mendez committed two of the three errors in Myers’ second professional start.

“We didn’t show up tonight as a team and he paid for it, too,” LaPoint said. “He [Myers] wasn’t getting much help behind him. He kept battling and I give him a lot of respect for that.”

Myers’ implosion came two days after Clint Nageotte couldn’t make it out of the second inning in a 14-3 loss in Southern Maryland. Jason Simontacchi is still on the inactive list but the Ducks are struggling to fill in the rotation spots behind Randy Leek and Manny Ulloa. Nageotte, Myers, and Steven Kent have failed to distinguish themselves, each logging an ERA over six.

Jon Searles, a quality No. 3 starter, was placed on the inactive list May 28. LaPoint hinted that help could be coming from outside the organization.

“You’re always looking for better pitching,” LaPoint said. “There is just nobody out there right now. We have to go with what we have.”

Mock cheers from the 5,615 in attendance at Citibank Park marked the only time the crowd was able to have an impact. The Ducks surrendered five runs in the first inning and went down 10-0 before the fifth.

All nine Somerset hitters recorded at least one base hit, including Gera Alvarez and Brandon Larson’s solo home runs. Myers lost the strike zone in the first, hitting a batter and walking another following a leadoff single. Larson worked a bases-loaded walk to score the first ring. Myers struck out the next hitter but then gave up Vito Chiaravalloti’s two-run single. Hagen’s RBI single capped the rally.

“I look back and think the 0-2 curveball on the first hitter when he gave up the first hit shook him up a little bit,” LaPoint said. “It [wrecked] his concentration and he doesn’t have enough experience to know how to settle himself down and get back into the game.

“It’s a learning process. We’ll keep working with him.”

Myers came out for the second and promptly allowed Elliott Ayala’s double. Michael Ryan’s one-out double brought home Ayala. The Wantagh native would allow two unearned runs in the third before finally taxing LaPoint’s patience in the fourth. Larson’s blast put another run on the board and a walk and single chased Myers.

Hagen greeted reliever Kevin Mannix by lining a RBI single and Travis Anderson walked to load the bases with none out. Two foul pop ups and a flyout ended the threat without any more runs. Catcher Jamie Pogue caught two of those pop flies right behind home plate, drawing sarcastic applause rarely heard in the Atlantic League.

The fans’ frustration was understandable considering a particularly egregious mental mistake earlier in the fourth. Hagen ripped a single with Josh Pressley on second and Chiaravalloti on first. Pressley originally intended to hold at third before racing home once the ball reached Brent Abernathy at second base.

Abernathy had a clear play at home but held on to the ball, which would have resulted in at least one out since Chiaravalloti was about 20 feet off the base. But Abernathy failed to notice the runner in front of him, leaving everyone safe as jeers rained on the field.

The Riversharks scored first with a run in the top of the first inning.
Center fielder Nic Jackson walked, moved to second on a single, advanced to third on an error, and scored on an RBI single by designated hitter Josh Rabe.

Somerset answered with a run in the bottom of the first inning to tie the game. Left fielder Michael Ryan walked and would later score on an RBI single by designated hitter Josh Pressley.

Somerset broke the game open with a seven run second inning for an 8-1 lead.
Right fielder Matt Hagen drew a walk, catcher Travis Anderson singled, and second baseman David Housel drew a walk to load the bases. Center fielder Elliott Ayala followed with an RBI infield single to score Hagen. Second baseman Gera Alvarez then drove in Anderson with an RBI single to keep the bases loaded. Ryan plated Housel on a bases loaded walk. Pressley then cleared the bases with a grand slam, his second of the season. The home run was Pressley’s fourth home run of the year.

Camden cut the lead to 8-4 with three runs in the top of the sixth inning.
Right fielder L.J. Biernbaum doubled and scored on an RBI single by first baseman Brett Bonvechio. Left fielder Ron Davenport followed with a two-run home run (2) to left field.

The Patriots extended the lead in the bottom of the seventh inning on a solo home run by Hagen (2) for a 9-4 lead.

The Riversharks scored in the top of the eighth inning on a sacrifice fly and in the top of the ninth on a solo home run by Jackson (2). Patriots starter Steve Kelly (3-2) picked up the win, allowing four earned runs on eight hits in seven innings pitched. Camden starter Vince Perkins (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing eight earned runs on five hits and six walks in two innings pitched.

The 2008 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Thursday, June 5th when the Patriots return to Commerce Bank Ballpark for a 7:05 pm game against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. The game kicks off Commerce Bank Ballpark’s 10th Anniversary Celebration with Ballpark Posters for the first 2,000 fans in attendance, courtesy of Barefoot Wine. The game is also NASCAR Night and Celebrate NJ Night. Great seats are still available by stopping by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, by calling (908) 252-0700, or on-line at www.somersetpatriots.com.