Ducks Take Game 2 Behind Mazzaro’s Dominant Outing

Former big leaguer Vin Mazzaro continued his September dominance Wednesday night, tossing eight strong innings, while only allowing one unearned run. The outing led the Long Island Ducks to a convincing 8-1 victory over the High Point Rockers in game 2, giving them a 2-0 series lead.

Rockers starter Craig Stem was roughed up by the red hot Ducks lineup, getting tagged for six earned runs in just 5 1/3 innings. Trailing 1-0 in the top of the 3rd, Steve Lombardozzi gave the Flock the lead with a 2-run triple in the right-center gap and Lew Ford followed with a RBI single to extend their lead to 3-1. Then in the 6th, Ford ripped a RBI double down the left field line and L.J. Mazzilli launched a 2-run homer to left to give Long Island a comfortable 6-1 lead.

That lead was more than enough for Mazzaro, who kept the Rockers off-balance all night long. He finished with 10 strikeouts on the night, a season-high for the 32-year-old. Since transitioning to a starter, the righty has posted a brilliant 1.89 ERA. He has also not allowed an earned run in his last 28 2/3 innings.

The Road Ahead

The Ducks, with a 2-0 series lead, will now have three chances to close out the High Point Rockers at home at Bethpage Ballpark. Game 3 will be played on Friday night at 6:35 ET. The Ducks will send righty Seth Simmons (8-8, 3.86) to the hill and High Point will oppose him with their ace, Joe Van Meter (10-6, 2.30). Should Long Island defeat the Rockers, they will advance to the Atlantic League Championship Series for the fourth season in a row.