Eighth-inning homers prove to be difference in pitcher’s duel
(Central Islip, N.Y., May 24, 2019) – The Long Island Ducks shut out the Sugar Land Skeeters 2-0 on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at Bethpage Ballpark.
Both starters traded zeroes over the first seven innings of the game. Ducks starter Darin Downs pitched seven scoreless innings, allowing just five hits and two walks while striking out nine batters. Skeeters starter Mitch Talbot tossed seven shutout frames as well, yielding four hits while striking out seven.
The Ducks broke the scoreless deadlock in the bottom of the eighth against Sugar Land reliever Kevin Comer. David Washington’s leadoff solo home run to right field, and Rey Fuentes’ two-out solo blast to right put the Flock ahead 2-0.
George Kontos (2-0) earned the win, pitching two scoreless innings of relief, allowing one hit and one walk while striking out two. Comer (1-1) suffered the loss, surrendering two runs on two hits in one inning of relief.
Fuentes led the Flock offensively with two hits on the night.
The Ducks and Skeeters 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 Flushing Bank. 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. Right-hander Joe Iorio (1-0, 0.53) takes the mound for the Ducks against Skeeters righty Lucas Irvine (1-1, 4.00).
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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