Deibinson Romero’s seventh-inning RBI single proves to be the difference
(Central Islip, N.Y., July 1, 2019) – The Long Island Ducks defeated the Sugar Land Skeeters 4-3 on Monday night in the opener of a four-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
The Ducks struck for two first-inning runs against Skeeters starter and former Duck Carlos Pimentel on an RBI double by Kirk Nieuwenhuis and an RBI single by Deibinson Romero. It stayed that way until the bottom of the fifth when Vladimir Frias launched a leadoff solo home run to right, extending the lead to 3-0.
Sugar Land closed to within two in the top of the sixth when Blair Beck scored from third on a passed ball. One inning later, Jason Martinson lifted a two-run homer to left, tying the game at three.
Long Island reclaimed the lead in the bottom of the seventh on Romero’s two-out RBI single to left, scoring Ezequiel Carrera. The Skeeters loaded the bases in the ninth inning, but Enrique Burgos struck out the side to preserve the win.
Neither starter factored into the decision. Joe Iorio pitched six innings for the Ducks, allowing an unearned run on three hits while striking out five. Pimentel lasted five innings, yielding three runs on five hits and two walks with six strikeouts. Cody Mincey (3-0) picked up the win despite allowing two runs on two hits and a walk in one inning. Danny Reynolds (0-1) took the loss, yielding a run on a hit and two walks in one inning. Burgos earned his eighth save of the season with a scoreless ninth, striking out three while conceding a hit and a walk.
Romero led the Flock with two hits and two RBIs, while L.J. Mazzilli added two hits as well.
The Ducks and Skeeters continue their four-game set on Tuesday 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 The Rinx at Hidden Pond Park. It’s also a Teal Tuesday, and the Ducks will be wearing their brand new teal-colored 20th Anniversary Season jerseys and caps during the game. In addition, select 20th Anniversary merchandise will be available at discounted prices in the Waddle In Shop during the game. Right-hander Pedro Beato (Ducks debut) takes the mound for the Ducks against Skeeters righty Troy Scribner (1-3, 4.87).
Tickets to the game, and all Ducks home games, can be purchased by visiting the 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 video and audio will be available via BoxCast on LIDucks.com, Facebook Live and the Ducks official YouTube channel.
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)
With eight teams in the Mid-Atlantic and Texas, 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 900 players to MLB organizations while drawing more than 40 million fans to its affordable, family-friendly ballparks throughout its 22-year history.
For more information, please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.
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