Two More Hits For Ford, Scoreless Inning For Burke In Debut

(Central Islip, NY– June 2, 2018) – The Long Island Ducks (16-16) defeated the New Britain Bees (13-20) 7-5 at Bethpage Ballpark on Saturday night to even up the three-game weekend series at a victory apiece.

New Britain starting pitcher Rainy Lara tallied a no-decision after giving up three runs on four hits in five innings of work, walking three and striking out five while firing a wild pitch. Long Island starting pitcher Jake Dunning also did not factor in the game’s final outcome after surrendering four runs on three hits in just two innings pitched, walking three and tossing a wild pitch.

New Britain went to work against Dunning in the top half of the second inning, scoring four runs on three hits for a quick 4-0 advantage, highlighted by a sacrifice fly from Jamar Walton that plated Jason Rogers after he led off the frame with a walk, an RBI single off the bat of Ozney Guillen that scored Matt Tuiasosopo after he also reached base by way of a free pass, and a two-run double from Darren Ford which drove in Guillen and James Skelton. Long Island responded in the home half of the sixth as they sent 12 batters to the plate, scoring seven runs on five hits to turn a 4-0 deficit into a 7-4 lead, with the big blow coming by way of a two-out, go-ahead two-run single from Emilio Bonifacio against losing pitcher Elvin Ramirez (0-2). The Bees got to within 7-5 in the top of the seventh, but the home team would prevent a potential game-tying rally from taking place as Francisco Rodriguez struck out the side in the top of the ninth for his team-leading sixth save of the campaign, making a winner out of reliever Wander Perez (2-1). The Ducks were able to come away with the victory despite the pitching staff allowing a total of 12 walks on the night. Despite the loss, Devin Burke was impressive out of the bullpen in his debut in a Hardware City uniform with a scoreless inning of relief. Ford and Guillen led the way for New Britain with a pair of hits each. Photo provided courtesy of Joe Doll.

The Bees return to New Britain Stadium on Monday, June 4^th when they welcome in the reigning Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Champion York Revolution for a four-game series. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 P.M. It will be another Dollar Monday, as the Bees will offer one dollar Field Box Tickets and one dollar Martin Rosol Hot Dogs to all guests! Stick around for Monday Bingo as well! 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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