(Central Islip, N.Y., June 1, 2018) – The Long Island Ducks were defeated by the New Britain Bees 15-6 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
The Ducks took an early 1-0 lead in the first inning on Taylor Ard’s sacrifice fly to right field off Bees starter Kyle Simon. However, the Bees responded with a six-run second inning against Ducks starter John Brownell. Jamar Walton’s three-run home run to right and James Skelton’s two-run homer to right highlighted the scoring.
Skelton’s two-run double to right in the third extended New Britain’s lead to 8-1. Both teams then traded single runs over the next five half-innings, putting the Bees ahead 10-4 after five innings. Travis Snider and Emilio Bonifacio collected RBI groundouts for the Ducks, while Walton hit his second homer of the night for the visitors. Deibinson Romero’s three-run homer to left in the seventh and Jason Rogers’ two-run double in the ninth rounded out the scoring for the Bees.
Simon (3-2) picked up the win, pitching six innings, allowing five runs (four earned) on eight hits and two walks with two strikeouts. Brownell (2-4) took the loss, surrendering eight runs on nine hits and a walk in two and two-thirds innings while striking out two.
Bonifacio finished with two hits and two RBI, while Jordany Valdespin added two hits and three runs. Fields also chipped in with two hits, an RBI and a run.
The Ducks and Bees 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 CityMD Urgent Care. 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 (1-3, 8.80) takes the mound for the Ducks against Bees righty Rainy Lara (2-2, 3.66).
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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