Simmons strikes out seven in seven innings of one-run ball for Long Island
(Central Islip, N.Y., August 2, 2019) – The Long Island Ducks were defeated by the High Point Rockers 5-2 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
The Ducks drew first blood in the bottom of the third inning on an RBI single to center field from Vladimir Frias off Rockers starter Joe Van Meter. It stayed that way until the seventh when Michael Russell tied the game with a two-out RBI single to center off Ducks starter Seth Simmons.
One inning later, High Point plated four runs to take a 5-1 lead. Jared Mitchell’s RBI double, a sac fly from Quincy Latimore and two run-scoring errors did the damage. T.J. Rivera homered to left field in the bottom of the eighth, closing the gap to 5-2. However, the Ducks could not pull even.
Neither starter factored into the decision. Simmons pitched seven innings of one-run ball, allowing four hits and two walks while striking out seven. Van Meter lasted six innings, giving up a run on four hits and two walks with five strikeouts. Brian Clark (2-3) earned the win with a scoreless seventh inning, stranding the bases loaded. Mariel Checo (1-2) took the loss, yielding three runs (two earned) on one hit, one walk and one hit batsman. Ryan Kelly collected his fifth save of the season with a scoreless ninth.
Rivera and L.J. Mazzilli each had a pair of hits to lead the Flock offensively.
The Ducks and Rockers 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, presented by PSEG Long Island. 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 fireworks show. Right-hander Joe Iorio (5-1, 2.85) takes the mound for the Ducks against Rockers righty Edwin Carl (2-2, 3.12).
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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