(Central Islip, N.Y., June 9, 2017) – The Long Island Ducks were defeated by the Bridgeport Bluefish 5-4 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
Bridgeport took an early 4-0 lead with two-run innings in the second and third against Ducks starter John Brownell. RBI singles from Ozney Guillen, Sean Burroughs and Jose Gil highlighted the scoring.
Long Island cracked the scoreboard in the bottom of the third on an RBI single to right field by Anthony Vega off of Bluefish starter Cory Riordan. The Bluefish got the run back though in the seventh on a sacrifice fly to center from D’Arby Myers.
The Ducks closed to within 5-3 in the bottom of the seventh on an RBI double down the right field line from Vega and a sac fly to center by Elmer Reyes. A two-out RBI single to center by Vega in the ninth trimmed the deficit to one, but the Ducks were unable to pull even.
Riordan (4-2) picked up the win, pitching seven innings of three-run ball, allowing nine hits and a walk while striking out five. Brownell (4-1) suffered the loss, yielding five runs (four earned) on 11 hits in seven innings with three strikeouts. David Carpenter earned his 19th save of the season despite allowing a run on two hits in the ninth.
Vega and Dan Lyons each had three hits to lead the Flock, with Vega driving in three runs. Fehlandt Lentini added two hits and scored twice.
The Ducks and Bluefish continue their three-game set on Saturday night. Game time is slated for 6:35 p.m., with the Bethpage Ballpark gates opening at 5:35 (5:20 for full season ticket holders). Following the game, all fans in attendance will be treated to a Fireworks Spectacular. In addition, Ducks staff members will be handing out coupons for $10 off a purchase of $50 or more at Dick’s Sporting Goods to fans following the fireworks show. Right-hander Matt Larkins (0-5, 5.92) takes the mound for the Ducks against Bluefish righty Jonathan Albaladejo (3-4, 5.66).
Tickets to the game, and all Ducks home games, are available by visiting the Bethpage Ballpark box office, calling (631) 940-TIXX or CLICKING HERE. Those unable to make the game can follow all the action on the Long Island Ducks Broadcast Network. Live streaming HD video and audio will be available via BoxCast on the Ducks’ official Facebook page, YouTube channel and at LIDucks.com.
The Long Island Ducks are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Bethpage Ballpark. For further information, call (631) 940-DUCK or visit www.liducks.com.
About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)
The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 36 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 800 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment to metropolitan markets serving nearly 15% of the US population.
For more information, please visit www.atlanticleague.com.