(Central Islip, N.Y., Aug. 18, 2017) – The Long Island Ducks defeated the Lancaster Barnstormers 10-1 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
Long Island opened the scoring in the second on an RBI single to right field by Ruben Gotay. A five-spot in the fifth inning against Lancaster starter Joe Gardner extended the advantage to 6-0. A two-run home run to left-center by Anthony Vega, an RBI single by Marc Krauss and a two-run single by Elmer Reyes highlighted the inning.
The Ducks continued to pound away with a four-run seventh against reliever R.J. Hively. Gotay’s solo homer, and RBI single by Dan Lyons and RBI doubles from Vega and Delta Cleary Jr. did the damage.
Ducks starter Jake Dunning (2-0) earned the win, tossing five scoreless innings, allowing six hits and a walk while striking out six. Gardner (0-3) took the loss, giving up six runs on nine hits and three walks in four and one-third innings with four strikeouts. Zac Treece, Tyler Wilson and Dennis O’Grady each threw a scoreless inning of relief for Long Island.
Eight Ducks batters had at least one hit in the game, with seven of them registering multiple hits. Vega led the Flock with three hits, three RBI and two runs scored while also picking up a defensive assist in right field. Cleary Jr. added three hits, an RBI and a run, while Gotay and Reyes each had two hits and two RBI.
The Ducks and Barnstormers 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, presented by PSEG Long Island. 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 as they exit the ballpark following the fireworks show. Right-hander Alfredo Simon (2-3, 4.67) takes the mound for the Ducks against Barnstormers southpaw Luis Gonzalez (0-0, 1.80).
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 37 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.