York, Penn. – The Somerset Patriots (31-24) allowed a late lead get away in a tough 4-3 loss to the York Revolution (29-28) Friday night at PeoplesBank Park.
The Revolution took an early 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first on a two-run single from Melky Mesa. The Patriots tied up the ballgame in the top of the fourth one a two-run error by York first baseman Michael Burgess. Mike Fransoso grounded the ball to first, it ricocheted off Burgess’ shin and rolled into foul territory, allowing two runs to score.
The game remained tied at 2-2 until Somerset broke through again in the top of the ninth inning. Fransoso sliced an RBI triple to the left field corner to give the Patriots their first lead of the ballgame.
“I was just trying to string together a solid at-bat and get [Justin Pacchioli] into scoring position,” said Fransoso. “I got to a 3-2 count and with Patch’s legs, all I needed to do was put the ball in play and he got it done.”
That lead was short-lived, however, when Michael Burgess (9) hit a walk-off two-run home run in the bottom of the ninth to win the game for York.
Grant Sides (2-0) got the win after allowing a run over one inning of relief. Ryan Kelly (1-2) allowed two runs without recording an out to take the loss.
Somerset’s magic number to clinch a first half championship now stands at four over the New Britain Bees after their loss to the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. The Long Island Ducks also lost Friday night, dropping the magic number of them to three.
The Patriots and Revolution continue their four-game series with a split doubleheader on Saturday. RHP Trevor Foss (2-4, 4.60 ERA) takes the mound for Somerset in game one against York southpaw Jonathan Sanchez (0-0, 0.00 ERA). Game two features Patriots’ lefty Rick Teasley (3-2, 3.15 ERA) against Revs righty Mitch Atkins (4-3, 5.12 ERA). Game one kicks off at 12:00 p.m. while first pitch of game two is set for 6:35 p.m.
The 2018 Somerset Patriots season presented by Ford continues on Friday, July 6th when the Patriots return to TD Bank Ballpark to take on the Road Warriors at 7:05 pm. For tickets, visit www.somersetpatriots.com
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