Skelton Extends On-Base Streak

(New Britain, CT– June 8, 2018) – The Somerset Patriots (24-13) defeated the New Britain Bees (15-24) 12-5 on Thursday night in New Britain Stadium to even up the four-game series at a victory apiece.

Bees starting pitcher Andy Van Hekken (1-4) pitched three innings, allowing six runs on nine hits en route to the loss, Van Hekken striking out two and walking three while tossing a wild pitch. Somerset starting pitcher David Kubiak (2-0) had a fantastic evening on the mound, tossing seven scoreless innings on just two hits allowed, walking one and striking out eight.

Somerset jumped all over New Britain early and often in the top half of the first inning. Julio Borbon opened the game with a double off Van Hekken, followed by another Alfredo Rodriguez double that brought Borbon home. Three batters later, Yovan Gonzalez slapped a single into left field to bring across another run. Danny Dorn bounced  into an RBI fielder’s choice and Justin Pacchioli smacked a sac fly into center field as the Patriots ended the top of the first already owning a 4-0 lead. The bleeding didn’t stop early for New Britain, as Mike Fransoso got into the scoring action with an RBI double that plated Pacchioli. Adam Weisenburger followed that with another RBI base knock of his own, extending the Patriots lead to 6-0. Devin Burke came in to replace Van Hekken and pitched well until facing his final batter in Dorn, who launched a two-strike pitch over the right field wall that scored three more runs to give Somerset a sizable 9-0 advantage. Justin Trapp drove in another run off of reliever Mike Hepple to put double digits on the scoreboard for the Patriots in the seventh frame. Finally, in the ninth Trapp added yet another RBI single, and right after Craig Massey hit into a fielder’s choice to give New Britain its largest deficit of the season at 12-0. The Bees tried their best to rally with their final three outs. James Skelton extended his on-base streak to a season-best 13 consecutive games overall working two walks, the latter coming in the bottom of the ninth. Skelton eventually came around to score on a Vinny Siena RBI single into center field that broke the scoring seal for the Bees. With Siena and Jonathan Galvez on base, Jason Rogers sent a line drive over the left field wall for a three-run blast to cut the deficit to12-4. The final run came across when Josh Thole doubled into the right centerfield and came around to score on a Jamar Walton single, giving the game its final score of 12-5. Walton led the way for New Britain with three hits. Photo provided courtesy of Jessica Muller.

The Bees are back at New Britain Stadium Saturday, June 9^th as they continue their series with the Liberty Division leading Somerset Patriots. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 P.M. It’ll be First Responder’s Night, as all first responders get into the ballpark for free with their proof of occupation. Family members of first responders can get in for just five dollars! Then close out the night with a spectacular post-game fireworks show, presented by Schaller Auto Group & Coors Light. And don’t forget five dollar Coors Light drafts at any 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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