Late Rallies Lead Somerset Past Long Island

(Central Islip, N.Y., July 21, 2018) – The Long Island Ducks were defeated by the Somerset Patriots 6-4 on Saturday night in the middle game of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.

Matt Oberste put the Patriots ahead in the first inning with a two-out RBI single off Ducks starter Tyler Badamo. Lew Ford’s two-out RBI double in the bottom of the first off Patriots starter Cory Riordan tied the game at one.

Long Island then took a 3-1 advantage in the third on back-to-back RBI singles by Taylor Ard and Ramon Cabrera. Somerset closed to within a run in the fifth on a two-out RBI single by Alfredo Rodriguez. However, a lead-off solo home run to right by Travis Snider in the bottom of the inning restored the Ducks two-run lead at 4-2.

The Patriots pulled even at four in the sixth following a single, two walks and a two-out error that scored Endy Chavez and Yovan Gonzalez. Two more runs for the visitors in the seventh on a first-pitch leadoff homer by Rodriguez and an RBI fielder’s choice by Mike Fransoso gave Somerset a 6-4 lead.

Neither starter factored into the decision. Badamo pitched five and one-third innings, yielding four runs (two earned) on 10 hits and a walk while striking out four. Riordan lasted just two innings, giving up a run on three hits and a walk. Chase Huchingson (4-0) picked up the win with a scoreless inning of relief, while Carlos Pimentel (0-3) took the loss, surrendering two runs on four hits in one inning. Ryan Kelly collected his 14th save with a scoreless ninth, striking out two.

Snider, Ford, Ard and Jordany Valdespin each had two hits to lead the Flock.

The Ducks and Patriots wrap up their three-game set on Sunday evening. Game time is slated for 5:05 p.m., with the Bethpage Ballpark gates opening at 4:05 (3:50 for full season ticket holders). The first 1,500 fans in attendance will receive Yellow and Navy Baseballs, courtesy of Yellow Dog Lawn Care. It’s also a Sunday Family Funday! Prior to the game, fans will be invited onto the field an autograph session with the Ducks from 4:20 to 4:35. After the game, kids and kids at heart can take part in Kids Run the Bases, presented by Bethpage Federal Credit Union. Right-hander Matt Larkins (5-2, 3.64) toes the rubber for the Ducks against Patriots southpaw Duane Below (6-2, 2.86).

Tickets to the game, and all Ducks home games, are available by visiting the Bethpage Ballpark box office, calling (631) 940-TIXX, CLICKING HEREor downloading the Ducks mobile app. 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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