Downs allows just two runs while bullpen preserves early lead
(York, Pa., July 9, 2021) – The Long Island Ducks defeated the York Revolution 5-2 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at PeoplesBank Park.
James Harris scored from third base on a wild pitch by Ducks starter Darin Downs in the second inning to give the Revolution a 1-0 lead. The Ducks answered with three runs in the third off Revolution starter Duke von Schamann to go in front 3-1. Breland Almadova scored on an error, and both L.J. Mazzilli and Sal Giardina picked up RBI singles.
York pulled to within 3-2 in the fifth on an RBI single off the left field wall by Melky Mesa. It stayed that way until the top of the ninth when a fielding error on a groundout off the bat of Mazzilli scored Almadova and Vladimir Frias, pushing the Ducks lead back up to 5-2.
Downs did not factor into the decision, tossing four and one-third innings of two-run ball, allowing five hits and two walks while striking out five. Brady Dragmire (4-0) earned the win, tossing one and two-thirds scoreless innings of relief, yielding three hits while striking out one. Von Schamann (2-4) suffered the loss, conceding three runs (two earned) on six hits over seven innings with three strikeouts. Michael Tonkin earned his league-leading ninth save of the season with a 1-2-3 ninth inning, striking out two.
Frias, Mazzilli and Almadova each had two hits to lead the Flock offensively. Long Island’s bullpen combined to pitch four and one-third scoreless innings, giving up just three hits and a walk while striking out six.
The Ducks and Revolution continue their three-game series on Saturday night. First pitch is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at PeoplesBank Park. Fans can follow all the action on the Long Island Ducks Broadcast Network. Live streaming HD video and audio will be available via BoxCast on LIDucks.com in the Ducks Video Center on the homepage as well as on the Ducks official Facebook page and YouTube channel. Right-hander Brendan Feldmann (1-1, 6.31) takes the mound for the Ducks against Revolution lefty Austin Nicely (3-3, 4.12).
Long Island returns home on Tuesday, July 13, to open a three-game set against the West Virginia Power. Game time is slated for 6:35 p.m., with the Fairfield Properties Ballpark gates opening at 5:35 (5:20 for full season ticket holders). If the Ducks turn a triple play during the game, one lucky fan will win $25,000. To be eligible to win, simply sign up prior to first pitch at the Ticket Kiosk, located on the main concourse next to customer service. Tickets to the game, and all Ducks home games, can be purchased by visiting the Fairfield Properties Ballpark box office, calling (631) 940-TIXX or CLICKING HERE.
The Long Island Ducks are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, a Professional Partner League of Major League Baseball, and play their home games at Fairfield Properties Ballpark. For further information, visit LIDucks.com or call (631) 940-DUCK (3825).
About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)
With teams throughout the Mid-Atlantic, the ALPB is a leader in baseball innovation and a player gateway to Major League Baseball. Through its exclusive partnership with MLB, the Atlantic League tests Major League Baseball rules and equipment initiatives. The Atlantic League has sent over 1,000 players to MLB organizations while drawing more than 42 million fans to its affordable, family-friendly ballparks throughout its 24-year history. For more information, please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.
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