Newport, Rhode Island.
(Monday June 11, 2007) – The Pittsfield Dukes traveled to Newport to shed
their winless record, but came up on the short end of a 3-0 decision in this
Southern Division NECBL match-up.
Jose Medoza (University of Maine) made his first appearance and start for
the Dukes and looked good, going five innings allowing just one unearned run
on five hits while striking out two and walking four.
Mendoza allowed a first inning run to the reigning division champions, but
did not allow another run for the remainder of his appearance.
Pitching Coach Ryan Fecteau said of the lefty’s first performance, “actually
did not look like he had his best stuff today, but he managed to pitch his
way out of some jams and battled out there. He did a great job keeping us in
the ball game through five innings.” He continued, “it shows a lot about his
make-up as pitcher when you can keep one of the best teams in the league to
one run without your best stuff.”
The Dukes tied the game at one apiece when Jeff Rustico (American
International College) took a bases loaded walk from Gulls starter Jared
Yecker (St. John’s) in the top of the fourth, plating Alex Hassan.
In the top of the fifth the Dukes would move ahead on the scoreboard for
this first time this season. Adam Tempesta (University of Massachusetts)
drilled a leadoff double into right-centerfield against his former NECBL
team. Following a sacrifice bunt from Tyler Stampone (Holy Cross), Kel’ii
Zablan (Southern Utah University) lined a base hit through the middle of a
drawn in infield, making the score 2-1.
The Dukes scratched across a run in the bottom of the fifth when Jeff
Rustico.
The Gulls put a two spot on the board, scoring both off of Duke’s reliever
Mike DiCato (University of Massachusetts) only one of which being earned.
Duke’s pitching allowed just the one earned run on the evening.
The Dukes in search of that elusive first win again Tuesday as they travel
to Danbury to take on the Westerners in another NECBL South Division contest
beginning at 7 pm.
Season tickets for the Dukes are available now. Tickets can be purchased
online at www.pittsfielddukes.com or by calling (413) 447-DUKE.
The Dukes appreciate your support. GO DUKES!!!
