Patriots Sneak by Ducks in Terrific Pitcher’s Duel

(Central Islip, N.Y., May 25, 2018) – The Long Island Ducks were defeated by the Somerset Patriots 2-1 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.

Aaron Dudley opened the scoring in the first inning, as his sacrifice fly to left field gave the Patriots a 1-0 lead. Jordany Valdespin answered in the bottom of the inning with a game-tying leadoff solo home run to right off Patriots starter Cory Riordan.

It stayed that way until the top of the sixth when Somerset jumped back in front. Back-to-back doubles by Julio Borbon and Endy Chavez produced the eventual game-winning run.

Riordan (2-1) earned the win, pitching eight innings of one-run ball, allowing just three hits while striking out four. Ducks starter John Brownell (2-3) suffered the hard-luck loss, yielding only two runs on five hits and a walk over seven innings with four strikeouts. Ryan Kelly collected his fifth save of the year with a scoreless ninth, striking out two.

The Ducks and Patriots 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, which will light the sky above the center field wall. 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 Jake Dunning (1-2, 4.84) takes the mound for the Ducks against Patriots righty David Kubiak (Season Debut).

Tickets to the game, and all 2018 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 38 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 900 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.

For more information, please visit www.atlanticleague.com.

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