Fields returns to starting lineup with a three-hit night
(Central Islip, N.Y., July 5, 2019) – The Long Island Ducks defeated the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs 5-3 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
The Blue Crabs jumped in front early after Tony Thomas hit a leadoff home run in the top of the first. The Ducks pulled even in the second when Daniel Fields lifted a two-out solo home run to left field.
David Washington put Long Island ahead with a solo homer to left-center field in the bottom of the fourth. However, Southern Maryland knotted the game at three after a two-run homer in the top half of the seventh off the bat of Cory Vaughn. The game was not tied for long though, as the Ducks plated two runs in the bottom half of the inning. An RBI fielder’s choice by L.J. Mazzilli and a sacrifice fly by Washington highlighted the inning.
Neither starter factored into the decision. Long Island starter Travis Banwart pitched six innings, allowing three runs on seven hits with seven strikeouts. Kyle Simon tossed six innings, yielding three runs on five hits and four walks while striking out four. Michael Tonkin (2-0) got the win for the Ducks, pitching three scoreless innings in relief, allowing no hits or walks while striking out five. Kevin Munson (1-2) was tagged with the loss, surrendering two runs (one earned) on two hits while striking out two in two innings of work.
Fields led the Flock offensively with three hits, two RBIs and a run. Washington added two RBIs and two runs as well.
The Ducks and Blue Crabs 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 over the center field wall, presented by Northwell Health as part of the Look North Inspiration Series. 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 game. Right-hander Joe Iorio (3-0, 2.67) takes the mound for the Ducks against Blue Crabs lefty Tommy Thorpe (0-2, 6.04).
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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