Patriots Take Sole Possession Of First Place With 4-1 Win Over Ducks

Bridgewater, NJ – The Somerset Patriots (32-19) defeated the Long Island Ducks (31-20) 4-1 at TD Bank Ballpark on Wednesday evening. With the win, the Patriots have taken sole possession of first place in the Liberty Division first half standings.

The Patriots jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the third inning on RBI singles by Ramon Flores and Edwin Espinal.

Scott Kelly’s sacrifice fly in the bottom of the fourth inning put Somerset up 3-0.

The Ducks struck for their lone run in the bottom of the eighth inning on an RBI double by L.J. Mazzilli that cut the lead to 3-1.

Somerset increased their lead in the bottom of the eighth inning on an error by Mazzilli that allowed pinch runner Justin Pacchioli to score.

Thomas Dorminy (2-4) earned the win with a scoreless five innings pitched, scattering three hits and striking out three batters. Closer Mike Antonini pitched a scoreless ninth inning to extend his league lead to 21 saves on the season.

“We’ve just been keeping them off balance. Attacking the zone and working off a good game plan,” said Antonini of the performance by Somerset’s pitching staff this series. “We’re gelling at the right time and adding some pieces and everything feels like it’s coming together.”

Darin Downs (0-2) suffered the loss, allowing two runs on six hits in three innings pitched.

The 2019 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home with a 7:05 pm game against the Long Island Ducks at TD Bank Ballpark on Thursday, June 20th. The game features Post Game Fireworks presented by Centenary University. For tickets, stop by the box office located at TD Bank Ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.