Brignac Extends On-Base Streak, Another Quality Start For Van Hekken

(New Britain, CT– May 16, 2018) – The Lancaster Barnstormers (12-5) defeated the New Britain Bees (5-12) in both games of a single-admission doubleheader at New Britain Stadium on Wednesday afternoon, winning game one 4-2 while taking the nightcap 2-0, with each game lasting seven innings of play.

In game one, New Britain starting pitcher Rainy Lara (0-2) suffered the loss, allowing four runs on seven hits (one home run) in six innings pitched, walking one and striking out three. Lancaster starting pitcher Nate Reed (3-0) earned the win after firing five scoreless innings on three hits allowed, walking one and striking out six while hitting a batter. Matt Reynolds retired both batters he faced in the home half of the seventh inning for his team-leading fourth save of the season.

Trailing 2-0 in their final turn at bat, New Britain got to within 4-2 on a pinch-hit RBI single off the bat of Manny Ramirez, Jr. that scored Jonathan Galvez, and a run-scoring base knock produced by Darren Ford that allowed Nate Irving to cross the plate. The Bees had the tying-run in scoring position with two down in Ford, but the comeback fell just short as Reynolds induced Deibinson Romero to pop out to second baseman Rico Noel to end the ballgame. Galvez led the way for New Britain with a pair of hits, his fourth multi-hit game of the campaign, tying him with Ford for the club lead in that category.

In game two, New Britain starting pitcher Andy Van Hekken (0-3) was tagged with the tough luck loss despite his second consecutive quality start, surrendering one run on four hits across six innings pitched, walking two while striking out three and throwing a wild pitch. Lancaster starting pitcher Steve Johnson (2-1) picked up the victory after not allowing a run in six innings on the mound while giving up three hits, walking one and striking out seven. John Anderson close the game out of the Barnstormers bullpen for his first save of the campaign.

Lancaster took a 1-0 lead versus Van Hekken in the top of the third inning after Vladimir Frias led off the frame with a double and scored from second base on a bunt single by Carlos Garcia and a throwing error from Deibinson Romero. The visitors added an insurance run in the top of the seventh to make it 2-0 in their favor on an RBI fielder’s choice off the bat of Matt Hibbert. Reid Brignac drew a free pass earlier in the ballgame in his first plate appearance in the middle of the first inning, extending his on-base streak to a team-high 13 consecutive games overall. Romero had two-hits in the losing effort for the Bees. Photo provided courtesy of Jessica Muller.

New Britain concludes their three-game midweek series with the Lancaster Barnstormers at New Britain Stadium on Thursday, May 17^th. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 P.M. Be sure not to miss out on Miller Lite Thirsty Thursday! All domestic drafts are just three dollars at every concession stand! 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)

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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