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NEW BRITAIN, C.T. -- The Bees came up just short in tonight’s battle with the Westfield Starfires, losing 2-0 in the first Futures League game broadcasted live by the regional sports network, NESN.  The Bees were held hitless until the seventh inning and were unable to get a rally going, being shut out for the first time all season.

The bats remained quiet for both teams to start the game, but finally in the top of the fifth inning, Westfield was able to get out to a lead when Eric Callahan (Millersville University) hit a single into center field which scored Reggie Crawford (UConn) from second base.  The Starfires added another run in the top half of the sixth inning when Johnny Tuccillo hit a solo home run, his second of the season, to give the Starfires a 2-0 lead over the Bees.

The Bees had a few opportunities throughout the game to convert, but just were not able to drive in any runs.  New Britain’s biggest chance came in the bottom of the eighth inning when LT Pare (Merrimack College) entered the game for Westfield and struck out Mike Caruso (Fairfield University) to get out of a bases loaded jam and end the inning.  Again in the bottom of the ninth inning, there were bases loaded and Starfires closer, Reggie Crawford, was able to strike out husky teammate Zach Donahue (UConn) swinging and secure the win for Westfield.

The Bees started Joe Mancini (Boston College) who pitched three innings, giving up just one hit and no runs, while striking out and walking one batter each.  The damage went to Emmet Sheehan (Boston College) who entered after Mancini and threw three innings as well, but gave up two runs on four hits, and also striking out four batters.  Sheehan received the loss tonight for the Bees.  Drew Mead (Marymount University) finished the game for New Britain and struck out five Westfield batters in three innings of work.

The Starfires started Nick Dombkowski (University of Hartford) and he no-hit the Bees in his six innings on the mound.  Along with giving up no hits, Dombkowski also struck out nine batters and walked just three.  Dombkowski recorded his first win of the season.  Four other pitchers also saw relief action for Westfield tonight, including Reggie Crawford who struck out three batters on his way to his third save of the season.

The Bees drop to 10-16 on the season, while the Starfires improve to 10-14.  New Britain has two days off before playing another home game against the Worcester Bravehearts.  The Bees have won the last two matchups with Worcester.  First pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m. from New Britain Stadium. Click Here For Tickets.

About the New Britain Bees

The New Britain Bees are members of the Futures Collegiate Baseball League and play their home games at New Britain Stadium. For information on tickets packages, group outings and sponsorships call 860-826-BEES (2337) or visit NBBees.com.

About the Futures Collegiate Baseball League (FCBL)

The FCBL is made up of seven teams from various parts of New England, each of which plays 28 home games and 28 away games. Each franchise is made up of elite collegiate athletes competing in a minor league style format.  Each franchise provides high quality, affordable entertainment, in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. At least 50% of the players on each team must be from New England or attend college in New England. For further information, visit www.thefuturesleague.com.