Mazzilli’s three-hit, three-RBI day leads Ducks past Patriots
(Central Islip, N.Y., Aug. 20, 2019) – The Long Island Ducks defeated the Somerset Patriots 6-4 on Tuesday night in the second game of a four-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
Mike Ohlman’s RBI single to right field gave the Patriots a 1-0 lead in the top of the first. Daniel Fields responded with an RBI groundout in the bottom of the inning, scoring D’Arby Myers, who had tripled, tying the game at one.
It stayed that way until the bottom of the fourth when L.J. Mazzilli uncorked a mammoth solo home run to left-center field off Patriots starter Zack Dodson. However, a two-out, two-run single to left by Rey Navarro in the sixth off Ducks starter Darin Downs put Somerset back on top 3-2. Ohlman’s RBI single to center in the seventh increased the visitor’s lead to two.
Long Island stormed back with four runs in the bottom of the eighth to take a 6-4 lead. An RBI single to center by Lew Ford, a two-run single to center by Mazzilli, and a bases loaded walk to Hector Sanchez did the damage.
Neither starter factored into the decision. Downs pitched six innings of three-run ball, allowing five hits and four walks while striking out seven. Dodson lasted seven and one-third innings, yielding three runs on seven hits with one strikeout. Ismael Cabrera (1-0) earned the win with two innings of relief, allowing a run on two hits and a walk with three strikeouts. Luis Cruz (2-4) took the loss, conceding three runs on two hits and two walks without recording an out. Pedro Beato picked up his third save with a scoreless ninth inning.
Mazzilli led the Flock at the plate with three hits, three RBIs and a run. Myers added two hits and two runs, while John Apostolo also chipped in with two hits.
The Ducks and Patriots continue their four-game series on Wednesday night. Game time is slated for 6:35 p.m., with the West Gate of Bethpage Ballpark opening at special time of 4:50 for a pre-game charity softball game. It’s a Weekend Wednesday at the ballpark! All fans will be invited to enjoy the normally-exclusive Duck Club restaurant and bar on the club level behind home plate. The Duck Club will feature half-price wings and half-price domestic Bud Lights throughout the game. In addition, those visiting the concession stands on the main concourse will be able to take advantage of both food and drink specials. Right-hander Seth Simmons (6-7, 4.43) toes the rubber for the Ducks against Patriots righty Tyler Cloyd (0-1, 3.75).
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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