The Somerset Patriots defeated the Bridgeport Bluefish 3-2 before 7,528 fans at TD Bank Ballpark on Monday evening. The Bluefish took a 1-0 lead in the top of the second inning on a solo home run by designated hitter Jesse Hoorelbeke (19).
Bridgeport added a run in the top of the third inning after shortstop Ryner Bautista reached on a fielder’s choice and scored on an RBI triple by center fielder Adam Greenberg for a 2-0 lead.
Somerset took the lead with three runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Catcher Jason Belcher walked, second baseman Teuris Olivares walked, and first baseman Joe Burke was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Left fielder Elliott Ayala followed with a two-run single to tie the game. Designated hitter Jon Nelson then drove home Burke with an RBI double for the 3-2 advantage.
Patriots starter Josh Miller (9-4) got the win after allowing two earned runs on six hits and three strikeouts in seven innings pitched. Bluefish starter Dan Reichert (12-9) suffered the loss after surrendering three earned runs on nine hits in eight innings pitched. Patriots closer Bret Prinz picked up his 19th save of the season after tossing a scoreless ninth inning.
The 2009 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford will continue at home on Tuesday night with a 6:35 pm game against the Bridgeport Bluefish. The game includes a chance for fans to Win $10,000 at the ballpark courtesy of Heineken Premium Light and 80’s Night. For tickets, stop by the Patriots Ticket Office located at the ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.
