Late Rally Dooms Patriots In 2-1 Loss

Central Islip, NY- The Somerset Patriots (16-6, 51-34) allowed a late Long Island Ducks (12-8, 42-41) rally in a 2-1 loss Tuesday night at Bethpage Ballpark.

Justin Pacchioli opened up the scoring in the top of the fourth inning on a two-out RBI double. The Patriots remained in front until a Ramon Cabrera sacrifice fly tied it in the bottom of the seventh inning. 

That was the only run that starting pitcher Vince Molesky allowed over his seven strong innings. The first-year Patriot yielded just four hits and two walks with four strikeouts.

“I just wanted to build off of my last outing,” said Molesky after the game. “Tonight our defense picked me up big time and helped me keep my pitch count low. The biggest part against that strong of a lineup is to pitch ahead, and I feel I was able to do that tonight.”

Long Island grabbed their first lead on a two-out RBI double from Travis Snider in the bottom of the eighth. Somerset then stranded the tying run in scoring position in the ninth to end the game.

Jake Fisher (5-5) earned the win after allowing just one run over eight innings with four hits, two walks and seven strikeouts. Logan Kensing (2-3) yielded a run in one inning of relief to take the loss. Francisco Rodriguez (18) tossed a scoreless ninth to earn the save.

The Patriots and Ducks conclude their three-game series Wednesday night. Somerset southpaw Duane Below (6-2, 3.54 ERA) takes the mound against Long Island righty Tyler Badamo (4-6, 4.38 ERA). First pitch at Bethpage Ballpark is scheduled for 6:35 p.m.

The 2018 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue on the road until Thursday, August 2nd when the Patriots return to TD Bank Ballpark for an 11:05 a.m. game against the New Britain Bees. The game includes Bark In The Park Night. For tickets, visit www.somersetpatriots.com. 

About The Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 38 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 900 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment. 

For more information, please visit www.atlanticleague.com.

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