Corey Oswalt – Rumble Ponies (Mets Minors)

One week after being named the Eastern League Pitcher of the Year, Corey Oswalt led the Binghamton Rumble Ponies to a 1-0 series lead over the Trenton Thunder in the Eastern Division Championship Series at NYSEG Stadium. Oswalt was brilliant, firing seven solid innings of five-hit ball while striking out seven. The Rumble Ponies defeated Trenton 4-1.

Oswalt did have a few struggles at the beginning of the game, allowing four of the first eight batters he faced get on base. He then retired 17 of the final Thunder batters he faced. The rookie showcased his dominance from before the postseason began. He has a 2.28 ERA this season, the best in the league, while his 12 wins ranked second. After a rocky start, he seemed comfortable against the Trenton batters. It’s not surprising, as he posted a 1-0 record in 13 innings against them in the regular season.

Several young Rumble Ponies were also able to help Corey Oswalt out. Peter Alonso, one of the Mets’ best hitting prospects, and Matt Oberste both struck with two-run doubles. Tyler Bashlor earned the save, extending the Rumble Ponies’ bullpen scoreless streak to 29.1 innings. Their last run allowed came on August 26th.

The last time the Rumble Ponies were in the playoffs was in 2014. The last and only time these two teams faced off in the playoffs was in 2013. The Thunder swept the then-Binghamton Mets three games to none. With game one out of the way, the Rumble Ponies hope to do the same to Trenton. 

Binghamton will look to expand their lead in the series as they host Trenton on Thursday for game two. First pitch is at 6:35pm and RHP Ricky Knapp faces RHP Brody Koerner. Tickets for Binghamton’s playoff schedule can be purchased at the NYSEG Stadium box office, online on www.bingrp.com and over the phone at (607) 722-FUNN.