De Aza’s Hit By Pitch With The Bases Loaded Wins It

(New Britain, CT– May 15, 2019) – The New Britain Bees (7-9) defeated the Lancaster Barnstormers (6-11) 5-4 in walk-off fashion in the bottom half of the ninth inning at New Britain Stadium on Wednesday night to even up the three-game midweek series at a victory apiece. The win was New Britain’s first in 2019 in their final turn at the plate.

New Britain starting pitcher Zach Stewart tallied a no-decision in the ballgame, allowing three runs (one earned run) on six hits in five innings pitched, walking and striking out two while tossing a wild pitch. Lancaster starting pitcher John Anderson also did not factor in the game’s final outcome, surrendering four runs (three earned runs) on seven hits in four and two-thirds innings on the mound, striking out two.

Down 2-0 in the bottom half of the fifth inning, the Bees batted around, scoring four runs on six hits to take their first lead of the night 4-2, highlighted by RBI singles produced by Logan Moore and Jason Rogers (Moore’s of the infield variety) and a sacrifice fly off the bat of Darren Ford. The Barnstormers cut the deficit in half at 4-3 in the top of the sixth, and tied the game at four in the top of the ninth frame when Michael Martinez plated Darian Sandford with a sacrifice fly of his own after Sandford began the rally with a leadoff walk. In the last of the ninth, Moore opened up the inning with a free pass versus losing pitcher Andury Acevedo (0-1), and moved into scoring position at second base by way of a Ford sacrifice bunt. Back to back intentional walks to Alexi Amarista and Jason Rogers loaded the bases with Bees, setting the stage for Alejandro De Aza, who sent the Hardware City faithful home with smiles on their faces as he was hit by a pitch thrown from reliever Bryan Harper, and the celebration was on as Moore crossed the plate with the winning run, making a winner out of Jose Rosario (2-1) despite the blown save. De Aza and Jonathan Galvez each had two hits en route to the victory. Photo provided courtesy of Joe Doll.

The Bees conclude their series with the Lancaster Barnstormers at New Britain Stadium on Thursday, May 15^th. First pitch is scheduled for 10:35 A.M. It will be the first School Day Game of the season, presented by Whitson’s Catering. CLICK HERE for tickets.

About the New Britain Bees

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

About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

With eight teams in the Mid-Atlantic and Texas, the ALPB is a leader in baseball innovation and a player gateway to Major League Baseball. Through its exclusive partnership with MLB, the Atlantic League tests Major League Baseball rules and equipment initiatives. The Atlantic League has sent over 900 players to MLB organizations while drawing more than 40 million fans to its affordable, family-friendly ballparks throughout its 22-year history.  For more information, please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.

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