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WINTER PARK, Fla. (June 28, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats endured a rough start to the week with an 11-3 loss to the Winter Park Diamond Dawgs at Alfond Stadium Tuesday night.
“It kind of snowballed for us,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “We swung the bats well, but they made the plays defensively that they needed to. Their pitcher did a nice job settling in and from then, their bullpen did a good job.”
The Rats (6-10-1) started strong as leadoff hitter Alex Mendez (South Florida) hit a 1-2 pitch for a double and scored on a TJ Gavlik (North Florida) double in the first.
Winter Park’s (12-3) Dustin Demuth (Indiana University) scored on a passed ball in the second to tie the game. Demuth added another run in the fourth on a pitcher’s error. Michael Danner (Polk State College) hit a solo home run and B.J. Zimmerman (State College of Florida) scored on a catcher’s error in the fourth to give the Dawgs a 4-1 lead going into the fifth.
Sanford scored two runs in the fifth. Mendez hit his second double of the night, which also scored Tyler Doughty (Florida Tech). Dominic Attanasio (Clemson) hit a single to plate Mendez to make it a 4-3 game.
“We’re swinging the bat really well. We’re moving guys over, we’re starting to make more productive outs,” Piercefield said. “Overall, we’ve just got to keep working on minimizing when things start to go awry.”
Winter Park loaded the bases on two straight walks and a single in the home half of the fifth. Danner sent Michael Reed (Auburn University) and Omar Cotto (Southern Cal) home on a double before stealing home. Ted Blackman (Coastal Carolina) also crossed home in the fifth to make it 8-3.
Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) took the mound in relief to close the fifth and staunch the flow. He then pitched two more scoreless innings, striking out three and walking one in three innings of work.
The Dawgs added three more runs in the eighth. Reed hit a double to plate Alex Cruz (Georgia Tech) and Brad Hutton (Ohio State), while Stephen Holden scored on a single from Cotto.
The Rats will try to regroup with a contest against the Winter Haven Loggerheads (7-10) at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Wednesday night. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m.
“Tomorrow the guys are going to have kind of a long day,” Piercefield said. "Some will help with a special needs group in Altamonte Springs and others are going to the Boys and Girls Club. Hopefully things start rolling the right way for us tomorrow.”
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Sanford Closes Week With Loss to Leesburg
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LEESBURG, Fla. (June 26, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats ended their week with a 7-3 loss to the Leesburg Lightning at Pat Thomas Stadium Sunday night.
“Playing on the road against a quality team is always difficult,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “We came out and didn’t play a clean game defensively.”
Four Rats errors could have been the difference. The Lightning scored three runs on two errors and advanced to scoring position on two more.
“Our bullpen did a great job throwing quality pitches for ground balls,” Piercefield said. “We just didn’t field them cleanly often enough.”
Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) started on the mound for Sanford and through 2 2/3 innings, struck out three. Taylor Smith (Rollins), pitching in relief, continued his domination of Leesburg. In 1 1/3 innings, he struck out three in a row (including one to shut down a bases-loaded jam he inherited), walked none, and gave up zero hits.
Offensively, the Rats (6-9-1) finished the night with nine hits, but the Lightning (11-5) seemed to always be ready with a quick defensive reaction to limit Sanford’s scoring.
“We didn’t get many guys in scoring position, and when we did we couldn’t push them across,” Piercefield said. “The guys getting thrown out moving to bases, that’s on me - that’s River Rat baseball. We never assume a play is over, stay aggressive, and make them make a play. Tonight, they did.”
Christian Coburn (College of Central Florida) and Mike Albaladejo (Florida Atlantic) scored in the first on a single from Mike Miller (Dallas Baptist) for Leesburg.
Alex Mendez (South Florida) scored the first run for the Rats in the top of the fourth on a double from Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) to make it 2-1.
Tyler Kellmann (Lake Sumter CC) scored on a third baseman error in the sixth that also advanced Chase Durham (Howard College). Durham then scored on a Coburn sacrifice fly. Thomas Sicking (Texas Pan-American) scored on a Jacob Tillotson (Florida) single to push the score to 5-1.
The Lightning continued their rout one inning later as Troy Drummond (Delaware State), pinch running for Miller, and Kellmann scored on a catcher’s error.
Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) and Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) scored the game’s final two runs on a Leesburg shortstop error.
“We still finished the week with a winning record, and we’re looking forward to next week,” Piercefield said.
Sanford’s next game is against the first-place Winter Park Diamond Dawgs (11-3) at Alfond Stadium Tuesday night. First pitch is slated for 7pm.
LEESBURG, Fla. (June 26, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats ended their week with a 7-3 loss to the Leesburg Lightning at Pat Thomas Stadium Sunday night.
“Playing on the road against a quality team is always difficult,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “We came out and didn’t play a clean game defensively.”
Four Rats errors could have been the difference. The Lightning scored three runs on two errors and advanced to scoring position on two more.
“Our bullpen did a great job throwing quality pitches for ground balls,” Piercefield said. “We just didn’t field them cleanly often enough.”
Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) started on the mound for Sanford and through 2 2/3 innings, struck out three. Taylor Smith (Rollins), pitching in relief, continued his domination of Leesburg. In 1 1/3 innings, he struck out three in a row (including one to shut down a bases-loaded jam he inherited), walked none, and gave up zero hits.
Offensively, the Rats (6-9-1) finished the night with nine hits, but the Lightning (11-5) seemed to always be ready with a quick defensive reaction to limit Sanford’s scoring.
“We didn’t get many guys in scoring position, and when we did we couldn’t push them across,” Piercefield said. “The guys getting thrown out moving to bases, that’s on me - that’s River Rat baseball. We never assume a play is over, stay aggressive, and make them make a play. Tonight, they did.”
Christian Coburn (College of Central Florida) and Mike Albaladejo (Florida Atlantic) scored in the first on a single from Mike Miller (Dallas Baptist) for Leesburg.
Alex Mendez (South Florida) scored the first run for the Rats in the top of the fourth on a double from Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) to make it 2-1.
Tyler Kellmann (Lake Sumter CC) scored on a third baseman error in the sixth that also advanced Chase Durham (Howard College). Durham then scored on a Coburn sacrifice fly. Thomas Sicking (Texas Pan-American) scored on a Jacob Tillotson (Florida) single to push the score to 5-1.
The Lightning continued their rout one inning later as Troy Drummond (Delaware State), pinch running for Miller, and Kellmann scored on a catcher’s error.
Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) and Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) scored the game’s final two runs on a Leesburg shortstop error.
“We still finished the week with a winning record, and we’re looking forward to next week,” Piercefield said.
Sanford’s next game is against the first-place Winter Park Diamond Dawgs (11-3) at Alfond Stadium Tuesday night. First pitch is slated for 7pm.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
River Rats Roll Suns in The Villages
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THE VILLAGES, Fla. (June 22, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats earned their first win over the DeLand Suns in an 8-3 game at The Villages Wednesday night.
Sanford starting pitcher Ryan Heinz (George Washington) took the mound after missing two starts due to back tightness and pitched into the sixth inning, striking out four and walking just one. Heinz allowed two Suns runs in the first inning and one in the sixth.
“The first inning started out a little rough but you settle in out there,” Heinz said. “I just wanted to come in today and find the strike zone. I threw a lot of fastballs, not too many off-speed pitches, and hit the zone. Command is everything.”
“Ryan did a great job tonight,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “Ryan said his back was bothering him so we gave him time to recover. He was able to take the ball and attack hitters. After the first inning he settled down, got ahead of guys, got the leadoff hitter out, and really kept us in the game.”
The Rats’ bats helped, too. Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) led the second inning off with a double, followed by a Kyle Foti (Flagler) double to score Mazur, the first of six runs the Rats would score that inning.
“Johnny has been a spark plug for us the whole year,” Piercefield said. “He’s able to lay down a drag bunt, but also has enough to hit doubles. He really keeps our lineup energized.”
Tyler Doughty (South Florida) singled and Blake Boyd (Nova Southeastern) walked to load the bases.
Alex Mendez (South Florida) and TJ Gavlik (North Florida) then took RBI walks to make it 4-2 for Sanford. Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) hit a single to score Mendez, and Gavlik was able to score on a wild pitch to make it 6-2.
“Offensively, the guys are starting to figure out what kind of players they are and putting together great approaches,” Piercefield said. “In that second inning, we were able to find a bunch of holes.”
Sanford (6-8-1) and DeLand (7-7) both scored in the sixth. Boyd scored a second run on a Fortunato double for Sanford, while Kevin Lindheim (Stetson) scored for DeLand on a Brad Carlton (Stetson) sacrifice fly to make the score 7-3.
Sanford’s final run of the game came in the seventh when Mazur, after stealing second, was plated by a Doughty double.
“We had a great turnout tonight and it was a great experience. DeLand’s a quality team, and anytime you’re able to go out and get a win on the road, it’s a good night,” Piercefield said.
Sanford’s next game is against the Orlando Freedom (3-12) at Orel Hershiser Field at The First Academy Thursday (June 23) night. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m. Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) is the probable starter for Sanford.
THE VILLAGES, Fla. (June 22, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats earned their first win over the DeLand Suns in an 8-3 game at The Villages Wednesday night.
Sanford starting pitcher Ryan Heinz (George Washington) took the mound after missing two starts due to back tightness and pitched into the sixth inning, striking out four and walking just one. Heinz allowed two Suns runs in the first inning and one in the sixth.
“The first inning started out a little rough but you settle in out there,” Heinz said. “I just wanted to come in today and find the strike zone. I threw a lot of fastballs, not too many off-speed pitches, and hit the zone. Command is everything.”
“Ryan did a great job tonight,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “Ryan said his back was bothering him so we gave him time to recover. He was able to take the ball and attack hitters. After the first inning he settled down, got ahead of guys, got the leadoff hitter out, and really kept us in the game.”
The Rats’ bats helped, too. Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) led the second inning off with a double, followed by a Kyle Foti (Flagler) double to score Mazur, the first of six runs the Rats would score that inning.
“Johnny has been a spark plug for us the whole year,” Piercefield said. “He’s able to lay down a drag bunt, but also has enough to hit doubles. He really keeps our lineup energized.”
Tyler Doughty (South Florida) singled and Blake Boyd (Nova Southeastern) walked to load the bases.
Alex Mendez (South Florida) and TJ Gavlik (North Florida) then took RBI walks to make it 4-2 for Sanford. Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) hit a single to score Mendez, and Gavlik was able to score on a wild pitch to make it 6-2.
“Offensively, the guys are starting to figure out what kind of players they are and putting together great approaches,” Piercefield said. “In that second inning, we were able to find a bunch of holes.”
Sanford (6-8-1) and DeLand (7-7) both scored in the sixth. Boyd scored a second run on a Fortunato double for Sanford, while Kevin Lindheim (Stetson) scored for DeLand on a Brad Carlton (Stetson) sacrifice fly to make the score 7-3.
Sanford’s final run of the game came in the seventh when Mazur, after stealing second, was plated by a Doughty double.
“We had a great turnout tonight and it was a great experience. DeLand’s a quality team, and anytime you’re able to go out and get a win on the road, it’s a good night,” Piercefield said.
Sanford’s next game is against the Orlando Freedom (3-12) at Orel Hershiser Field at The First Academy Thursday (June 23) night. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m. Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) is the probable starter for Sanford.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Sanford Stops Late Leesburg Rally, Snaps Losing Streak
Read this article at the FCSL website.
LEESBURG, Fla. (June 21, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats held off an eighth-inning rally and broke a three-game losing skid with a 4-3 victory over the Leesburg Lightning at Pat Thomas Stadium Tuesday night.
“We try to teach that belief of ‘expect to win’ when we come onto the field,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “We don’t hope. We don’t pray. We don’t wish. We expect to win, and today we were able to execute against a very good team. Any time you can go on the road against the number one team in the standings and get a win, it’s very satisfying and a great way to start the week.”
Both starting pitchers put up five shutout innings, but Sanford struck first in the sixth. TJ Gavlik (North Florida) led off with a double, his second base hit of the night and just the third overall for the Rats.
“Austin Liput (USC-Upstate) came right behind him and moved Gavlik to third [on a 4-3 groundout] followed by Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) hitting a sacrifice fly to centerfield, just how you’d draw it up,” Piercefield said. “Anytime you’re able to score first, and on the road, and when both pitchers are doing well, it makes it a lot easier than when you’re playing from behind.”
Sanford (5-8-1) added some insurance runs in the seventh, largely due to two defensive errors. Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) reached first on a pitcher’s error. Blake Boyd (Nova Southeastern) reached base on a single, and Alex Mendez (South Florida) hit a ground-rule double to score Haverstick. A shortstop’s error then allowed Boyd and Mendez to score, and Gavlik to reach first.
“That allowed our bullpen to do their thing,” Piercefield said.
Leesburg’s (9-4) Nic Kovacs (Lake Sumter CC) pitched 6 2/3 innings, striking out four and walking none, but took the loss after giving up four runs.
Sanford starter Taylor Smith (Rollins) allowed just one hit over seven shutout innings of work, and struck out eight. Smith retired 11 consecutive batters between the third and sixth innings.
“We had a great pitching performance tonight from Smith,” Piercefield said. “He was able to keep their guys off balance. When you get a starting pitcher that’s able to do that, you’re going to be in a lot of games.”
Smith’s seven innings marked his deepest work of the season thus far.
“The thing with Smith has been pitch counts,” Piercefield said. “Tonight, he was able to attack hitters, so he was able to stay in the game and compete.”
Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island), pitching in relief for Sanford, did allow Patrick Hicks (Dallas Baptist), Thomas Sicking (Texas Pan-American), and Christian Coburn (College of Central FL) to score in the bottom of the eighth, but Adam Maxon (Jacksonville) came in for Sanford in the ninth and shut the door on Leesburg, striking out two and inducing a grounder to first to end the game.
Sanford continues their road game slate against the DeLand Suns (7-6) at The Villages. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m. JR Edwards is the probable starter for Sanford.
LEESBURG, Fla. (June 21, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats held off an eighth-inning rally and broke a three-game losing skid with a 4-3 victory over the Leesburg Lightning at Pat Thomas Stadium Tuesday night.
“We try to teach that belief of ‘expect to win’ when we come onto the field,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “We don’t hope. We don’t pray. We don’t wish. We expect to win, and today we were able to execute against a very good team. Any time you can go on the road against the number one team in the standings and get a win, it’s very satisfying and a great way to start the week.”
Both starting pitchers put up five shutout innings, but Sanford struck first in the sixth. TJ Gavlik (North Florida) led off with a double, his second base hit of the night and just the third overall for the Rats.
“Austin Liput (USC-Upstate) came right behind him and moved Gavlik to third [on a 4-3 groundout] followed by Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) hitting a sacrifice fly to centerfield, just how you’d draw it up,” Piercefield said. “Anytime you’re able to score first, and on the road, and when both pitchers are doing well, it makes it a lot easier than when you’re playing from behind.”
Sanford (5-8-1) added some insurance runs in the seventh, largely due to two defensive errors. Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) reached first on a pitcher’s error. Blake Boyd (Nova Southeastern) reached base on a single, and Alex Mendez (South Florida) hit a ground-rule double to score Haverstick. A shortstop’s error then allowed Boyd and Mendez to score, and Gavlik to reach first.
“That allowed our bullpen to do their thing,” Piercefield said.
Leesburg’s (9-4) Nic Kovacs (Lake Sumter CC) pitched 6 2/3 innings, striking out four and walking none, but took the loss after giving up four runs.
Sanford starter Taylor Smith (Rollins) allowed just one hit over seven shutout innings of work, and struck out eight. Smith retired 11 consecutive batters between the third and sixth innings.
“We had a great pitching performance tonight from Smith,” Piercefield said. “He was able to keep their guys off balance. When you get a starting pitcher that’s able to do that, you’re going to be in a lot of games.”
Smith’s seven innings marked his deepest work of the season thus far.
“The thing with Smith has been pitch counts,” Piercefield said. “Tonight, he was able to attack hitters, so he was able to stay in the game and compete.”
Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island), pitching in relief for Sanford, did allow Patrick Hicks (Dallas Baptist), Thomas Sicking (Texas Pan-American), and Christian Coburn (College of Central FL) to score in the bottom of the eighth, but Adam Maxon (Jacksonville) came in for Sanford in the ninth and shut the door on Leesburg, striking out two and inducing a grounder to first to end the game.
Sanford continues their road game slate against the DeLand Suns (7-6) at The Villages. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m. JR Edwards is the probable starter for Sanford.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Rats' Rally is Too Little, Too Late
Read this article at the FCSL website.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 19, 2011) – Despite a four-run ninth inning, the Sanford River Rats fell to the DeLand Suns 8-6 at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Sunday night.
The River Rats entered the ninth inning down 8-2, but quickly energized the fans as Ryan Woodrey (Nova Southeastern) walked, followed by Tyler Doughty (Florida Tech) and Blake Boyd (Nova Southeastern) both singling to load the bases with no outs. Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) then hit a two-RBI double to score Woodrey and Doughty to cut the lead in half, 8-4. TJ Gavlik (North Florida) then singled to score Boyd, followed by a James Ramsey (South Florida) groundout that scored Fortunato.
With the score now 8-6, one out, and a runner in scoring position, Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) represented the tying run, but he flied out to centerfield. Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) was then the last hope for Sanford, but a pop-up to shortstop ended the rally and the game.
“It’s always frustrating to lose, but it’s one of those where the guys kept battling and putting up runs,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “Another game where we had a chance; we had the tying run at the plate in the ninth inning. Offensively, we were able to score six runs on 10 hits. Defensively, we were relatively solid. We got another solid effort by the bullpen. Adam Maxon came in and gave us a lift, so did Adam Albers. Flipped up some zeros and gave us a chance to stay in the game.”
Deland (7-5) starting pitcher Eric Green (St. Petersburg CC) earned the win after five innings of work in which he struck out nine, while walking only two and allowing one run. Bennie Sanchez (SCAD) took the loss for Sanford (4-8).
“Eric’s got a great arm. He did a nice job mixing locations to keep our guys off balance,” Piercefield said.
Stephen Bellantoni (USC-Aiken) and Brandon Turner (Bethune Cookman) scored the first two runs for DeLand in the first. Austin Jackson (Florida Southern) scored one in the second to make it 3-1. Austen Barber (Winthrop) and Aaron Silbar (Columbia University) crossed home in the fourth to make it 5-1.
Gavlik scored the first run for the Rats. Following a triple in the first inning, Ramsey hit an RBI single to plate Gavlik to make it 2-1. The other run prior to the ninth came as Boyd hit an RBI single to score Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) in the seventh to cut the lead to 5-2.
It was a special day for the Rats despite the loss, as many of the players’ fathers came to see their sons play on Father’s Day.
“It’s always great to see our guys be able to perform in front of their families,” Piercefield said. “That’s always special for a father to see his son play. We were excited to have them be a part of our festivities tonight.”
Sanford will be off Monday. Their next game will be at Leesburg’s (9-3) Pat Thomas Stadium on Tuesday, June 21, which will mark the first time the Rats will play there this summer. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 19, 2011) – Despite a four-run ninth inning, the Sanford River Rats fell to the DeLand Suns 8-6 at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Sunday night.
The River Rats entered the ninth inning down 8-2, but quickly energized the fans as Ryan Woodrey (Nova Southeastern) walked, followed by Tyler Doughty (Florida Tech) and Blake Boyd (Nova Southeastern) both singling to load the bases with no outs. Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) then hit a two-RBI double to score Woodrey and Doughty to cut the lead in half, 8-4. TJ Gavlik (North Florida) then singled to score Boyd, followed by a James Ramsey (South Florida) groundout that scored Fortunato.
With the score now 8-6, one out, and a runner in scoring position, Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) represented the tying run, but he flied out to centerfield. Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) was then the last hope for Sanford, but a pop-up to shortstop ended the rally and the game.
“It’s always frustrating to lose, but it’s one of those where the guys kept battling and putting up runs,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “Another game where we had a chance; we had the tying run at the plate in the ninth inning. Offensively, we were able to score six runs on 10 hits. Defensively, we were relatively solid. We got another solid effort by the bullpen. Adam Maxon came in and gave us a lift, so did Adam Albers. Flipped up some zeros and gave us a chance to stay in the game.”
Deland (7-5) starting pitcher Eric Green (St. Petersburg CC) earned the win after five innings of work in which he struck out nine, while walking only two and allowing one run. Bennie Sanchez (SCAD) took the loss for Sanford (4-8).
“Eric’s got a great arm. He did a nice job mixing locations to keep our guys off balance,” Piercefield said.
Stephen Bellantoni (USC-Aiken) and Brandon Turner (Bethune Cookman) scored the first two runs for DeLand in the first. Austin Jackson (Florida Southern) scored one in the second to make it 3-1. Austen Barber (Winthrop) and Aaron Silbar (Columbia University) crossed home in the fourth to make it 5-1.
Gavlik scored the first run for the Rats. Following a triple in the first inning, Ramsey hit an RBI single to plate Gavlik to make it 2-1. The other run prior to the ninth came as Boyd hit an RBI single to score Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) in the seventh to cut the lead to 5-2.
It was a special day for the Rats despite the loss, as many of the players’ fathers came to see their sons play on Father’s Day.
“It’s always great to see our guys be able to perform in front of their families,” Piercefield said. “That’s always special for a father to see his son play. We were excited to have them be a part of our festivities tonight.”
Sanford will be off Monday. Their next game will be at Leesburg’s (9-3) Pat Thomas Stadium on Tuesday, June 21, which will mark the first time the Rats will play there this summer. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m.
River Rats Fall Hard to Diamond Dawgs
Read this article at the FCSL website.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 18, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats fought hard, but still fell 10-6 to the Winter Park Diamond Dawgs at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Saturday night.
“Tonight was a tough night, obviously,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “Winter Park came out and started off hot and it kind of got to us. We were able to change the approach and get a little more aggressive and move guys into scoring position, and we did a great job executing in those situations.”
Sanford allowed four runs through the first three innings, while scoring none of their own, but battled back through the next three frames to tie the game at 5-5 by the bottom of the sixth.
Ted Blackman (St. Petersburg College) scored the first run of the game for Winter Park (7-2-1) in the first. Dustin Demuth (Indiana University) hit a solo home run to left field in the second. Omar Cotto (Southern Cal) and Blackman both scored in the third to make it 4-0.
The Rats began their rally with Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) and TJ Gavlik (North Florida) scoring runs to make it 4-2 in the bottom of the fourth. Austin Liput (USC Upstate), who has been an RBI machine for the River Rats so far this year, had an RBI single to score James Ramsey (South Florida) in the fifth to bring the Rats within one.
Another Demuth run in the top of the sixth made it 5-3 going into the bottom of the frame, but Gavlik crossed home again in front of Tyler Doughty (Florida Tech) on a two-run RBI single from Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) to knot it up at 5-5.
Justin Pickens (Stetson), pitching in relief for starter Ray Hanson (UCF), allowed a single to start the seventh, but the Rats’ defense turned a double play with the next batter. Pickens struck out Alex Cruz (Georgia Tech) to end the seventh.
Unfortunately, the Diamond Dawgs turned their own double play in the seventh and carried that momentum into the top of the eighth to score five runs and put the game out of reach for Sanford.
Demuth scored his third run of the night, and Michael Reed (Auburn University) scored one of his own on a two-RBI double from Blackman. Austin Chubb (Florida Southern) added another run with an RBI double to score Blackman. Finally, B.J. Zimmerman (State College of Florida) scored Chubb, but in trying to stretch for the double, was cut down on a quick throw from catcher Kyle Foti (Flagler) to Liput to end the inning.
Sanford had the bases loaded in the ninth, but was unable to capitalize, as they only scored one run to end the scoring at 10-6.
“Hopefully tomorrow we’ll put on a great show for the fans in Sanford and hopefully everyone has a great Father’s Day,” Piercefield said.
Sanford (3-6-1) will host the DeLand Suns (6-5) on Sunday, June 19. First pitch is slated for 5 p.m.; Bennie Sanchez (SCAD) will get the start.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 18, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats fought hard, but still fell 10-6 to the Winter Park Diamond Dawgs at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Saturday night.
“Tonight was a tough night, obviously,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “Winter Park came out and started off hot and it kind of got to us. We were able to change the approach and get a little more aggressive and move guys into scoring position, and we did a great job executing in those situations.”
Sanford allowed four runs through the first three innings, while scoring none of their own, but battled back through the next three frames to tie the game at 5-5 by the bottom of the sixth.
Ted Blackman (St. Petersburg College) scored the first run of the game for Winter Park (7-2-1) in the first. Dustin Demuth (Indiana University) hit a solo home run to left field in the second. Omar Cotto (Southern Cal) and Blackman both scored in the third to make it 4-0.
The Rats began their rally with Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) and TJ Gavlik (North Florida) scoring runs to make it 4-2 in the bottom of the fourth. Austin Liput (USC Upstate), who has been an RBI machine for the River Rats so far this year, had an RBI single to score James Ramsey (South Florida) in the fifth to bring the Rats within one.
Another Demuth run in the top of the sixth made it 5-3 going into the bottom of the frame, but Gavlik crossed home again in front of Tyler Doughty (Florida Tech) on a two-run RBI single from Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) to knot it up at 5-5.
Justin Pickens (Stetson), pitching in relief for starter Ray Hanson (UCF), allowed a single to start the seventh, but the Rats’ defense turned a double play with the next batter. Pickens struck out Alex Cruz (Georgia Tech) to end the seventh.
Unfortunately, the Diamond Dawgs turned their own double play in the seventh and carried that momentum into the top of the eighth to score five runs and put the game out of reach for Sanford.
Demuth scored his third run of the night, and Michael Reed (Auburn University) scored one of his own on a two-RBI double from Blackman. Austin Chubb (Florida Southern) added another run with an RBI double to score Blackman. Finally, B.J. Zimmerman (State College of Florida) scored Chubb, but in trying to stretch for the double, was cut down on a quick throw from catcher Kyle Foti (Flagler) to Liput to end the inning.
Sanford had the bases loaded in the ninth, but was unable to capitalize, as they only scored one run to end the scoring at 10-6.
“Hopefully tomorrow we’ll put on a great show for the fans in Sanford and hopefully everyone has a great Father’s Day,” Piercefield said.
Sanford (3-6-1) will host the DeLand Suns (6-5) on Sunday, June 19. First pitch is slated for 5 p.m.; Bennie Sanchez (SCAD) will get the start.
Friday, June 17, 2011
River Rats Suffer Second Loss to Suns
Read this article at the FCSL website.
DELAND, Fla. (June 16, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats fell 4-2 to the DeLand Suns at Melching Field at Conrad Park Thursday night.
“Anytime you only give up four runs to a team in this league you feel pretty good about yourself, especially on the defensive side,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “They made some solid plays defensively, though, and were able to limit us that way.”
Chad Rood (Stetson) earned the win for the Suns after throwing six innings in which he walked one and allowed the only two Sanford runs of the night.
“A lot of credit goes to Rood. He did a nice job settling in after the first and really kept our hitters off balance,” Piercefield said.
Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) and Austin Liput (USC Upstate) each scored a run in the first inning after a left fielder error moved them to scoring position and Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) hit a single to score them.
Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) got the start for the River Rats and despite seven innings in which he struck out four, the three runs allowed in the bottom of the second got him the loss.
“He did a great job through seven innings, flipping up a lot of zeros which gave us a chance to stay in the ballgame,” Piercefield said. “He’s a quality arm. He’s done a great job in his three starts for us. He pitched to contact, pounded the strike zone, and got a couple of double plays. We’ve become accustomed to expecting that out of him. He comes out and gives our team a chance to win.”
Adam Maxon (Jacksonville) pitched in relief in the eighth, but despite striking out two batters, the Suns (5-5) dinged him for one more run to make it 4-2.
The River Rats (4-6) will enjoy their second straight three-game home stand this weekend. Their next game is at home against the Winter Haven Loggerheads (4-6) on Friday (June 17) night. First pitch is slated for 7pm. Pitcher of the Week Ray Hanson will get the start.
DELAND, Fla. (June 16, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats fell 4-2 to the DeLand Suns at Melching Field at Conrad Park Thursday night.
“Anytime you only give up four runs to a team in this league you feel pretty good about yourself, especially on the defensive side,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “They made some solid plays defensively, though, and were able to limit us that way.”
Chad Rood (Stetson) earned the win for the Suns after throwing six innings in which he walked one and allowed the only two Sanford runs of the night.
“A lot of credit goes to Rood. He did a nice job settling in after the first and really kept our hitters off balance,” Piercefield said.
Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) and Austin Liput (USC Upstate) each scored a run in the first inning after a left fielder error moved them to scoring position and Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) hit a single to score them.
Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) got the start for the River Rats and despite seven innings in which he struck out four, the three runs allowed in the bottom of the second got him the loss.
“He did a great job through seven innings, flipping up a lot of zeros which gave us a chance to stay in the ballgame,” Piercefield said. “He’s a quality arm. He’s done a great job in his three starts for us. He pitched to contact, pounded the strike zone, and got a couple of double plays. We’ve become accustomed to expecting that out of him. He comes out and gives our team a chance to win.”
Adam Maxon (Jacksonville) pitched in relief in the eighth, but despite striking out two batters, the Suns (5-5) dinged him for one more run to make it 4-2.
The River Rats (4-6) will enjoy their second straight three-game home stand this weekend. Their next game is at home against the Winter Haven Loggerheads (4-6) on Friday (June 17) night. First pitch is slated for 7pm. Pitcher of the Week Ray Hanson will get the start.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
River Rats Win Over Orlando
Read this article at the FCSL website.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 15, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats notched a 7-3 win over the Orlando Freedom in the two teams’ first meeting of the year at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium on Tuesday night.
“It all starts with the leadoff guy,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “Execution is all we preach. We can’t control outcomes. We’re able to continue to get guys in scoring position and tonight we were able to drive them in.”
Leadoff hitter Alex Mendez (South Florida) got the night started with a first-pitch single, a steal (his sixth of the season), and a run scored on a wild pitch - all in the first inning.
“Offensively we swung the bats well,” Piercefield said. “[Orlando starting pitcher] Corben Madden (Seminole State College) is a quality pitcher who keeps you off-balance. Our guys were able to make an adjustment and put some more guys on base and put some pressure on them.”
TJ Gavlik (North Florida) scored on an RBI triple from Austin Liput (USC Upstate) in the third to make it 2-1 in Sanford’s favor.
Gavlik and Mendez also had runs in the seventh, a four-run affair that broke the game open for the River Rats. Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) scored Gavlik on a single and Liput scored Mendez on a sacrifice fly to make it 4-1 before Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) launched an 0-1 pitch over the left field wall for the second two-run Rats homer in as many games.
“The guy owned me three at-bats before that,” MacGeorge said, who struck out the at-bat prior. “He had me off-balance all night, but then he just kind of left it up and I got a good part of the bat on it.”
“He got a pitch up in the zone and didn’t miss it,” Piercefield said. “It’s always nice to see your guys have that kind of success and it was able to propel us to a victory tonight.”
Catcher Ryan Woodrey (Nova Southeastern) capped the Rats’ scoring with a run scored on a wild pitch in the eighth. Orlando (1-9) added two more runs in the ninth before a double play and a fly out ended the game.
Sanford starter JR Edwards (Lehigh) earned the win for his six innings of work.
“Another nice job on the mound from Edwards,” Piercefield said. “He went six innings and gave up one run. He did a great job and helped us keep the bullpen fresh for a long week.” Edwards also fanned five and issued zero walks.
Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) is the probable starter for Sanford (4-5) in their next game at DeLand’s (4-5) Melching Field at Conrad Park Thursday night. First pitch is slated for 7pm.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 15, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats notched a 7-3 win over the Orlando Freedom in the two teams’ first meeting of the year at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium on Tuesday night.
“It all starts with the leadoff guy,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “Execution is all we preach. We can’t control outcomes. We’re able to continue to get guys in scoring position and tonight we were able to drive them in.”
Leadoff hitter Alex Mendez (South Florida) got the night started with a first-pitch single, a steal (his sixth of the season), and a run scored on a wild pitch - all in the first inning.
“Offensively we swung the bats well,” Piercefield said. “[Orlando starting pitcher] Corben Madden (Seminole State College) is a quality pitcher who keeps you off-balance. Our guys were able to make an adjustment and put some more guys on base and put some pressure on them.”
TJ Gavlik (North Florida) scored on an RBI triple from Austin Liput (USC Upstate) in the third to make it 2-1 in Sanford’s favor.
Gavlik and Mendez also had runs in the seventh, a four-run affair that broke the game open for the River Rats. Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) scored Gavlik on a single and Liput scored Mendez on a sacrifice fly to make it 4-1 before Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) launched an 0-1 pitch over the left field wall for the second two-run Rats homer in as many games.
“The guy owned me three at-bats before that,” MacGeorge said, who struck out the at-bat prior. “He had me off-balance all night, but then he just kind of left it up and I got a good part of the bat on it.”
“He got a pitch up in the zone and didn’t miss it,” Piercefield said. “It’s always nice to see your guys have that kind of success and it was able to propel us to a victory tonight.”
Catcher Ryan Woodrey (Nova Southeastern) capped the Rats’ scoring with a run scored on a wild pitch in the eighth. Orlando (1-9) added two more runs in the ninth before a double play and a fly out ended the game.
Sanford starter JR Edwards (Lehigh) earned the win for his six innings of work.
“Another nice job on the mound from Edwards,” Piercefield said. “He went six innings and gave up one run. He did a great job and helped us keep the bullpen fresh for a long week.” Edwards also fanned five and issued zero walks.
Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) is the probable starter for Sanford (4-5) in their next game at DeLand’s (4-5) Melching Field at Conrad Park Thursday night. First pitch is slated for 7pm.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Sanford Stunned by Late Leesburg Rally
Read this article at the FCSL website.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 10, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats played eight innings of shutout baseball before giving up three runs in the ninth to fall 3-2 to the Leesburg Lightning at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Saturday night.
“It’s always tough when you lose, and especially when you play well,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “There are a bunch of positives to draw out of tonight, though. We played well enough to win the ball game, but you can never control outcomes. All you can control is how you go about the game and I think our guys did a great job of that.”
Right fielder James Ramsey (South Florida) scored both of Sanford’s runs. The first came on a sacrifice fly from second baseman Austin Liput (USC Upstate) in the fourth. The second was a solo home run in the eighth that put the Rats up 2-0.
River Rats (3-5) starting pitcher Bennie Sanchez (SCAD) gave up just two hits and two walks through six shutout innings. Neither Adam Maxon (Jacksonville) nor Adam Albers (St. Leo University) allowed runs in their one inning each of relief, and a series sweep seemed all but in hand going into the ninth inning.
Robert Stegbauer (Lincoln Memorial) took the mound to close out the game for Sanford, but walked Chase Durham (Howard College) and gave up singles to Tom Sicking (Texas Pan-American) and Mike Albaladejo (Florida Atlantic) to load the bases with no outs. Stegbauer was charged with the loss facing four batters in the top of the ninth.
Leesburg (7-1) third baseman Tyler Kellman (Lake Sumter CC) hit a two-RBI single to plate Durham and Sicking to tie the game. Right fielder Brandon Singer (Seminole State CC) had a fielder’s choice RBI to score Albaladejo and gave Leesburg the 3-2 lead.
Justin Pickens (Stetson) then took the mound and recorded three outs, including a strikeout to end the inning.
Despite getting two men on base in the home half of the ninth, Sanford couldn’t capitalize and took the heartbreaking loss.
Leesburg’s Michael Clutterbuck (Macomb CC) got the winning nod for the Lightning in three innings of work, striking out three. Dallas Baptist’s Carlton Patton shut the door on the Rats to pick up the save.
“We’re starting to come in the right direction, but we took another one-run loss,” Piercefield said. “It’s something the guys can continue to build on. These kinds of stretches… only help the team grow and get closer. We’re going to come out Tuesday refreshed and ready to go into week three.”
The River Rats have Sunday and Monday off before heading on the road to play Winter Park at Alfond Stadium at Harper-Shepherd Field Tuesday, June 14. The first pitch is slated for 7pm.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 10, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats played eight innings of shutout baseball before giving up three runs in the ninth to fall 3-2 to the Leesburg Lightning at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Saturday night.
“It’s always tough when you lose, and especially when you play well,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “There are a bunch of positives to draw out of tonight, though. We played well enough to win the ball game, but you can never control outcomes. All you can control is how you go about the game and I think our guys did a great job of that.”
Right fielder James Ramsey (South Florida) scored both of Sanford’s runs. The first came on a sacrifice fly from second baseman Austin Liput (USC Upstate) in the fourth. The second was a solo home run in the eighth that put the Rats up 2-0.
River Rats (3-5) starting pitcher Bennie Sanchez (SCAD) gave up just two hits and two walks through six shutout innings. Neither Adam Maxon (Jacksonville) nor Adam Albers (St. Leo University) allowed runs in their one inning each of relief, and a series sweep seemed all but in hand going into the ninth inning.
Robert Stegbauer (Lincoln Memorial) took the mound to close out the game for Sanford, but walked Chase Durham (Howard College) and gave up singles to Tom Sicking (Texas Pan-American) and Mike Albaladejo (Florida Atlantic) to load the bases with no outs. Stegbauer was charged with the loss facing four batters in the top of the ninth.
Leesburg (7-1) third baseman Tyler Kellman (Lake Sumter CC) hit a two-RBI single to plate Durham and Sicking to tie the game. Right fielder Brandon Singer (Seminole State CC) had a fielder’s choice RBI to score Albaladejo and gave Leesburg the 3-2 lead.
Justin Pickens (Stetson) then took the mound and recorded three outs, including a strikeout to end the inning.
Despite getting two men on base in the home half of the ninth, Sanford couldn’t capitalize and took the heartbreaking loss.
Leesburg’s Michael Clutterbuck (Macomb CC) got the winning nod for the Lightning in three innings of work, striking out three. Dallas Baptist’s Carlton Patton shut the door on the Rats to pick up the save.
“We’re starting to come in the right direction, but we took another one-run loss,” Piercefield said. “It’s something the guys can continue to build on. These kinds of stretches… only help the team grow and get closer. We’re going to come out Tuesday refreshed and ready to go into week three.”
The River Rats have Sunday and Monday off before heading on the road to play Winter Park at Alfond Stadium at Harper-Shepherd Field Tuesday, June 14. The first pitch is slated for 7pm.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
River Rats Roll Lightning, 8-1
Read this at the FCSL website.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 10, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats handed the Leesburg Lightning their first loss of the season in an 8-1 romp at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Friday night.
“The game starts and ends with pitching,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “To limit a team like that to five hits is a great job. We were able to limit their offense and came out the better team that way.”
Ray Hanson (Central Florida) picked up the win in his first start for Sanford (3-4), allowing just one run on three hits in six innings of work.
“I struck out two guys and the defense did the rest,” Hanson said. “It was just one of those nights that where no matter where I put it it’d be a ground ball or they’d miss it.”
Of the 18 outs recorded while Hanson was on the mound, only one made it to the outfield, while 12 were groundouts to the infielders. Hanson also had four three-up three-down innings.
“He’s got a great arm and gets ahead of hitters,” Piercefield said. “He gives us a chance to win every time he goes out, just like all our pitchers do. He’s got a chance to be in the front of the rotation.”
The only run Hanson gave up was in the fourth when Jacob Tillotson (Florida) came home on a fielder’s choice to make it 1-0.
“He may have been a little upset about that, but when you get in a situation like that, you are going to score, so for him to limit them to one run there was huge,” said Piercefield. “The team fed off of that and we were able to roll off some quality at-bats.”
And roll they did. Sanford put up three in the home half of the fourth after Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) doubled and Tyler Doughty (Florida Tech) walked. TJ Gavlik (North Florida) hit an RBI single to score MacGeorge. Doughty was able to score after an Alex Mendez (South Florida) grounder, and James Ramsey (South Florida) hit an RBI single to score Gavlik to put the Rats up 3-1.
Sanford blanked Leesburg (6-1) in the fifth and scored two more as Doughty and Gavlik notched two more RBIs, scoring Ryan Woodrey (Nova Southeastern) and Doughty respectively.
Ramsey and Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) both singled to start the bottom half of the sixth, and two wild pitches allowed Ramsey to score and Haverstick to reach third. Woodrey laid down a sacrifice bunt to score Haverstick and MacGeorge followed with an RBI single to plate Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech).
“We don’t take records into account,” Piercefield said of the previously undefeated Lightning. “We see nine guys trying to beat us and we go from there, whether they’re wearing a Lightning jersey or a New York Yankees jersey, we’re going to go out and execute the game of baseball.”
The Lightning will again play the River Rats in Sanford Saturday, June 11 at 7 p.m.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 10, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats handed the Leesburg Lightning their first loss of the season in an 8-1 romp at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Friday night.
“The game starts and ends with pitching,” River Rats Head Coach Stephen Piercefield said. “To limit a team like that to five hits is a great job. We were able to limit their offense and came out the better team that way.”
Ray Hanson (Central Florida) picked up the win in his first start for Sanford (3-4), allowing just one run on three hits in six innings of work.
“I struck out two guys and the defense did the rest,” Hanson said. “It was just one of those nights that where no matter where I put it it’d be a ground ball or they’d miss it.”
Of the 18 outs recorded while Hanson was on the mound, only one made it to the outfield, while 12 were groundouts to the infielders. Hanson also had four three-up three-down innings.
“He’s got a great arm and gets ahead of hitters,” Piercefield said. “He gives us a chance to win every time he goes out, just like all our pitchers do. He’s got a chance to be in the front of the rotation.”
The only run Hanson gave up was in the fourth when Jacob Tillotson (Florida) came home on a fielder’s choice to make it 1-0.
“He may have been a little upset about that, but when you get in a situation like that, you are going to score, so for him to limit them to one run there was huge,” said Piercefield. “The team fed off of that and we were able to roll off some quality at-bats.”
And roll they did. Sanford put up three in the home half of the fourth after Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle) doubled and Tyler Doughty (Florida Tech) walked. TJ Gavlik (North Florida) hit an RBI single to score MacGeorge. Doughty was able to score after an Alex Mendez (South Florida) grounder, and James Ramsey (South Florida) hit an RBI single to score Gavlik to put the Rats up 3-1.
Sanford blanked Leesburg (6-1) in the fifth and scored two more as Doughty and Gavlik notched two more RBIs, scoring Ryan Woodrey (Nova Southeastern) and Doughty respectively.
Ramsey and Dan Haverstick (Rhode Island) both singled to start the bottom half of the sixth, and two wild pitches allowed Ramsey to score and Haverstick to reach third. Woodrey laid down a sacrifice bunt to score Haverstick and MacGeorge followed with an RBI single to plate Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech).
“We don’t take records into account,” Piercefield said of the previously undefeated Lightning. “We see nine guys trying to beat us and we go from there, whether they’re wearing a Lightning jersey or a New York Yankees jersey, we’re going to go out and execute the game of baseball.”
The Lightning will again play the River Rats in Sanford Saturday, June 11 at 7 p.m.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Sanford Rolls to First Home Win
Read this at the FCSL website.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 9, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats defeated the Winter Park Diamond Dawgs 6-3 for their first win of the season at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Thursday night.
"Anytime you're at home, you want to put on a show for the fans," River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. "We played the same game we have all year and tonight the ball fell on our side."
Sanford (2-4) starting pitcher Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) earned the win after pitching into the seventh, walking just one and striking out four.
"He did a great job locating the ball and was really able to take control of each at-bat."
Winter Park's (4-2) Drew Packard (Villanova) took the loss, pitching just 3 1/3 innings and allowing three runs.
Kevin Gude (Polk State College) came in to relieve Packard in the fourth and pitched effectively, striking out five and walking none.
Despite that, Gude has the dubious distinction of allowing Sanford's first home run of the season, a solo shot to right center from centerfielder Alex Mendez (South Florida) in the fifth, to make it 4-0 for the Rats.
"I felt I barreled it up pretty good," Mendez said. "It was a 3-0 pitch, and he put it right where I like it. We talk about getting the pitch that you like and I just capitalized on it."
"His homer kind of set the tone a little bit," Piercefield said.
Mendez figures into an interesting note defensively: Winter Park second baseman Michael Reed (Auburn) was 0-4, with all four of his outs coming on fly balls to Mendez.
"I had no idea about that one," Mendez said with a laugh.
Sanford allowed Winter Park three total runs in the sixth and seventh to cut their lead, 4-3, but a three-hit, two-run seventh for Sanford in which eight batters made plate appearances ended the game's scoring.
Robert Stegbauer (Lincoln Memorial) came to the mound to close the ninth for Sanford, but it wasn't easy.
With the bases loaded, Winter Park second baseman Todd Hankins (Seminole State College) blasted a long ball to left field that just curved foul.
"In the book, it's a long strike," Piercefield said. "It could’ve changed the game, but it didn't seem to affect Stegbauer."
After a mound visit from Piercefield to remind Stegbauer he was in control, he struck Hankins out swinging.
"We're going to put it right back on tomorrow and just play our game," Piercefield said looking forward.
The River Rats host the Leesburg Lightning for the final two games of a three-game home stint Friday and Saturday. Both games are scheduled to start at 7pm.
"Being at home definitely provides an advantage with our crowd. We've got great fans and great support," Piercefield said.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 9, 2011) – The Sanford River Rats defeated the Winter Park Diamond Dawgs 6-3 for their first win of the season at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Thursday night.
"Anytime you're at home, you want to put on a show for the fans," River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. "We played the same game we have all year and tonight the ball fell on our side."
Sanford (2-4) starting pitcher Brandon Cowan (Lincoln Memorial) earned the win after pitching into the seventh, walking just one and striking out four.
"He did a great job locating the ball and was really able to take control of each at-bat."
Winter Park's (4-2) Drew Packard (Villanova) took the loss, pitching just 3 1/3 innings and allowing three runs.
Kevin Gude (Polk State College) came in to relieve Packard in the fourth and pitched effectively, striking out five and walking none.
Despite that, Gude has the dubious distinction of allowing Sanford's first home run of the season, a solo shot to right center from centerfielder Alex Mendez (South Florida) in the fifth, to make it 4-0 for the Rats.
"I felt I barreled it up pretty good," Mendez said. "It was a 3-0 pitch, and he put it right where I like it. We talk about getting the pitch that you like and I just capitalized on it."
"His homer kind of set the tone a little bit," Piercefield said.
Mendez figures into an interesting note defensively: Winter Park second baseman Michael Reed (Auburn) was 0-4, with all four of his outs coming on fly balls to Mendez.
"I had no idea about that one," Mendez said with a laugh.
Sanford allowed Winter Park three total runs in the sixth and seventh to cut their lead, 4-3, but a three-hit, two-run seventh for Sanford in which eight batters made plate appearances ended the game's scoring.
Robert Stegbauer (Lincoln Memorial) came to the mound to close the ninth for Sanford, but it wasn't easy.
With the bases loaded, Winter Park second baseman Todd Hankins (Seminole State College) blasted a long ball to left field that just curved foul.
"In the book, it's a long strike," Piercefield said. "It could’ve changed the game, but it didn't seem to affect Stegbauer."
After a mound visit from Piercefield to remind Stegbauer he was in control, he struck Hankins out swinging.
"We're going to put it right back on tomorrow and just play our game," Piercefield said looking forward.
The River Rats host the Leesburg Lightning for the final two games of a three-game home stint Friday and Saturday. Both games are scheduled to start at 7pm.
"Being at home definitely provides an advantage with our crowd. We've got great fans and great support," Piercefield said.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Winter Haven Tops Sanford for Second Straight Time
Read this post at the FCSL website.
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. (June 8, 2011) - For the second game in a row, late scoring put the game out of reach as the Sanford River Rats fell 7-4 against the Winter Haven Loggerheads at Chain of Lakes Park Wednesday night.
"You've got to give Winter Haven a lot of credit," River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. "They put a lot of pressure on the defense like we do and they took advantage of a couple of defensive mistakes."
Jacob Newberry (High Point) got the win for Winter Haven and Jeff Dally (UCF) earned a save for his ninth inning of work.
Sanford starter JR Edwards (Lehigh) took the loss despite some solid work on the mound in the first 4 2/3 innings. Edwards had five strikeouts on the night including a three up, three down third inning.
Ray Hanson (UCF) came in to pitch in relief after Winter Haven scored four runs in the fifth to go up 5-1, and retired seven consecutive batters with just 28 pitches.
"We're excited to have him on the club," Piercefield said. "He kept us in the ballgame with a chance to win it tonight."
Offensively, another new River Rat made an immediate impact too. Keaton Stroud (Embry-Riddle) had a two RBI single in the sixth to get the Rats within two.
An error by the Winter Haven third baseman in the seventh allowed Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) to score and cut the Loggerheads' lead to one, but Winter Haven scored two more in the eighth to put the game out of reach for Sanford.
"The game of baseball takes care of itself," Piercefield said. "Tomorrow's just another game and we're going to play Sanford River Rat baseball."
Sanford (1-4) will return to Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium as the River Rats host the hot-hitting Winter Park Diamond Dawgs on Thursday, June 9 with first pitch at 7 p.m.
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. (June 8, 2011) - For the second game in a row, late scoring put the game out of reach as the Sanford River Rats fell 7-4 against the Winter Haven Loggerheads at Chain of Lakes Park Wednesday night.
"You've got to give Winter Haven a lot of credit," River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. "They put a lot of pressure on the defense like we do and they took advantage of a couple of defensive mistakes."
Jacob Newberry (High Point) got the win for Winter Haven and Jeff Dally (UCF) earned a save for his ninth inning of work.
Sanford starter JR Edwards (Lehigh) took the loss despite some solid work on the mound in the first 4 2/3 innings. Edwards had five strikeouts on the night including a three up, three down third inning.
Ray Hanson (UCF) came in to pitch in relief after Winter Haven scored four runs in the fifth to go up 5-1, and retired seven consecutive batters with just 28 pitches.
"We're excited to have him on the club," Piercefield said. "He kept us in the ballgame with a chance to win it tonight."
Offensively, another new River Rat made an immediate impact too. Keaton Stroud (Embry-Riddle) had a two RBI single in the sixth to get the Rats within two.
An error by the Winter Haven third baseman in the seventh allowed Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) to score and cut the Loggerheads' lead to one, but Winter Haven scored two more in the eighth to put the game out of reach for Sanford.
"The game of baseball takes care of itself," Piercefield said. "Tomorrow's just another game and we're going to play Sanford River Rat baseball."
Sanford (1-4) will return to Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium as the River Rats host the hot-hitting Winter Park Diamond Dawgs on Thursday, June 9 with first pitch at 7 p.m.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
River Rats Fall Short in Loss to Winter Haven
Read this article at the FCSL website.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 7, 2011) - The Sanford River Rats tied the game three different times, but could never take a lead before falling 5-4 to the Winter Haven Loggerheads at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Tuesday night.
"We're just as easily 3-1 as we are 1-3," River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. "We've lost these three games by a total of five runs. The effort that these guys have put forth has been tremendous."
Sanford (1-3) starting pitcher Taylor Smith (Rollins College) and reliever Adam Albers (Saint Leo) both put forth tremendous effort from the mound. Smith struck out six and walked none in five innings of work.
Albers came in to a bases loaded jam in the sixth and struck out the first two batters he saw to close the inning.
Albers had to relieve Ryan Heinz (George Washington) after Heinz walked two and allowed an RBI single that gave the Loggerheads a 4-3 advantage.
"Ryan's back was a little tight," Piercefield said. "But Adam came in and, like he's done in his last two outings, slammed the door."
Alex Mendez (USF) had an RBI triple for the River Rats' first run followed by a sacrifice bunt from Blake Boyd (Nova Southeastern) to score Mendez for the tie.
Boyd's second RBI, a sacrifice fly to deep right to send Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) home, came in the fifth and tied the game once again at three.
After Albers slammed the door on the Loggerheads in the sixth, Sanford yet again tied the game with what was nearly a triple from Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle). Kyle Foti (Flagler) scored on MacGeorge's blast, but MacGeorge was called out at third.
Drew Leonard (Millsaps College), pinch running for Garrett Horan (Dickinson College), scored the winning run on a sacrifice bunt from Kevin Clements (Trinity) in the ninth.
Sanford managed to get Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) to third in the ninth on two passed balls but were unable to capitalize.
"It's frustrating that they're not getting to see the results that they want," Piercefield said. "But this is only going to make us a better team."
Piercefield isn't hitting the panic button, however. "Our goal is to create consistency, so to make big changes doesn't make too much sense."
Sanford travels to Chain of Lakes Park to take on Winter Haven (2-2) Wednesday at 7 p.m.
SANFORD, Fla. (June 7, 2011) - The Sanford River Rats tied the game three different times, but could never take a lead before falling 5-4 to the Winter Haven Loggerheads at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium Tuesday night.
"We're just as easily 3-1 as we are 1-3," River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. "We've lost these three games by a total of five runs. The effort that these guys have put forth has been tremendous."
Sanford (1-3) starting pitcher Taylor Smith (Rollins College) and reliever Adam Albers (Saint Leo) both put forth tremendous effort from the mound. Smith struck out six and walked none in five innings of work.
Albers came in to a bases loaded jam in the sixth and struck out the first two batters he saw to close the inning.
Albers had to relieve Ryan Heinz (George Washington) after Heinz walked two and allowed an RBI single that gave the Loggerheads a 4-3 advantage.
"Ryan's back was a little tight," Piercefield said. "But Adam came in and, like he's done in his last two outings, slammed the door."
Alex Mendez (USF) had an RBI triple for the River Rats' first run followed by a sacrifice bunt from Blake Boyd (Nova Southeastern) to score Mendez for the tie.
Boyd's second RBI, a sacrifice fly to deep right to send Pat Fortunato (Rhode Island) home, came in the fifth and tied the game once again at three.
After Albers slammed the door on the Loggerheads in the sixth, Sanford yet again tied the game with what was nearly a triple from Ian MacGeorge (Embry-Riddle). Kyle Foti (Flagler) scored on MacGeorge's blast, but MacGeorge was called out at third.
Drew Leonard (Millsaps College), pinch running for Garrett Horan (Dickinson College), scored the winning run on a sacrifice bunt from Kevin Clements (Trinity) in the ninth.
Sanford managed to get Johnny Mazur (Florida Tech) to third in the ninth on two passed balls but were unable to capitalize.
"It's frustrating that they're not getting to see the results that they want," Piercefield said. "But this is only going to make us a better team."
Piercefield isn't hitting the panic button, however. "Our goal is to create consistency, so to make big changes doesn't make too much sense."
Sanford travels to Chain of Lakes Park to take on Winter Haven (2-2) Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Sanford Falls to DeLand After Rough Outing
DELAND, Fla. (June 5, 2011) - The Sanford River Rats fell to the DeLand Suns 6-5 after the Suns rallied for a four-run seventh inning in DeLand Sunday night.
Sanford reliever Steven Chaffee (Wingate) was on the mound for two-thirds of that seventh, and took the loss.“Our pitching staff did another great job tonight, but one inning sometimes can make or break you,” River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. “Chaffee located pitches, but they put great swings on them. They swung the bats well so a lot of credit goes to DeLand for sticking to their approach.”
DeLand catcher Galen Smith (Cleveland State CC) hit a double to start the Suns’ seventh. Centerfielder Stephen Bellantoni (USC-Aiken) singled, followed by another single from JT Warmoth (Embry-Riddle) that scored Smith. Shortstop Aaron Silbar (Columbia) hit DeLand’s third consecutive single before Andre Colon (St. Thomas) hit a two-RBI double to put the Suns up by one, a deficit that Sanford could not overcome.
Andre’s twin brother Steven Colon (St. Thomas) was on the mound for DeLand and picked up the win. Dane Stone (St. Thomas) earned the save for the Suns, striking out the last two Sanford batters.
“Our game plan offensively was the same approach we’re going to take most of the year: whatever they’re going to give us, we’re going to take,” Piercefield said. “Whether that’s a bunt hit, hit and run, or a stolen base.”
The small ball plan was evident Sunday. TJ Gavlick (North Florida) laid down a sacrifice bunt in the second, and Ryan Woodrey’s (Nova Southeastern) bunt in the fifth turned into a safe trip to first on an error by DeLand’s pitcher.
“Our guys have really bought in to playing small ball,” Piercefield said. “It’s tough to defend, and we’re always trying to put pressure on the defense. The guys did a great job of it today: we scored five runs. Typically that’s enough to win ballgames.”
It wasn’t all dink-and-dunk, however. Austin Liput (USC Upstate) hit a two-RBI triple in the fifth to give the Rats a 4-2 lead.
“Tuesday we’re going to go out and we’re going to battle again,” Piercefield said. “Good teams are always put in these situations. It’s a matter of learning from them so that the next time they present themselves it’s second nature and we come through with the big inning.”
Sanford’s next contest on Tuesday, June 7 is a rematch at Historic Sanford Memorial Park between the River Rats and Winter Haven Loggerheads set for 7 p.m.
Sanford reliever Steven Chaffee (Wingate) was on the mound for two-thirds of that seventh, and took the loss.“Our pitching staff did another great job tonight, but one inning sometimes can make or break you,” River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. “Chaffee located pitches, but they put great swings on them. They swung the bats well so a lot of credit goes to DeLand for sticking to their approach.”
DeLand catcher Galen Smith (Cleveland State CC) hit a double to start the Suns’ seventh. Centerfielder Stephen Bellantoni (USC-Aiken) singled, followed by another single from JT Warmoth (Embry-Riddle) that scored Smith. Shortstop Aaron Silbar (Columbia) hit DeLand’s third consecutive single before Andre Colon (St. Thomas) hit a two-RBI double to put the Suns up by one, a deficit that Sanford could not overcome.
Andre’s twin brother Steven Colon (St. Thomas) was on the mound for DeLand and picked up the win. Dane Stone (St. Thomas) earned the save for the Suns, striking out the last two Sanford batters.
“Our game plan offensively was the same approach we’re going to take most of the year: whatever they’re going to give us, we’re going to take,” Piercefield said. “Whether that’s a bunt hit, hit and run, or a stolen base.”
The small ball plan was evident Sunday. TJ Gavlick (North Florida) laid down a sacrifice bunt in the second, and Ryan Woodrey’s (Nova Southeastern) bunt in the fifth turned into a safe trip to first on an error by DeLand’s pitcher.
“Our guys have really bought in to playing small ball,” Piercefield said. “It’s tough to defend, and we’re always trying to put pressure on the defense. The guys did a great job of it today: we scored five runs. Typically that’s enough to win ballgames.”
It wasn’t all dink-and-dunk, however. Austin Liput (USC Upstate) hit a two-RBI triple in the fifth to give the Rats a 4-2 lead.
“Tuesday we’re going to go out and we’re going to battle again,” Piercefield said. “Good teams are always put in these situations. It’s a matter of learning from them so that the next time they present themselves it’s second nature and we come through with the big inning.”
Sanford’s next contest on Tuesday, June 7 is a rematch at Historic Sanford Memorial Park between the River Rats and Winter Haven Loggerheads set for 7 p.m.
Friday, June 3, 2011
River Rats Suffer 5-2 Loss on Opening Night
SANFORD, Fla. (June 2, 2011) - The Sanford River Rats opened the 2011 season with a 5-2 loss to the defending Florida Collegiate Summer League Champion Winter Park Diamond Dawgs Thursday night at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium.
Despite the loss, “There were a lot of positives tonight,” River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. “These guys played extremely hard tonight.”
River Rats (0-1) starting pitcher JR Edwards was charged with the loss giving up four earned runs on seven hits in four complete innings on the bump.
Jeremy Strawn started on the mound for Winter Park (1-0) and earned the win after he threw five shutout innings. He recorded eight strikeouts, including six consecutively, while allowing three hits.
“He did an excellent job,” Piercefield said of Strawn. “Guys like that are going give everybody trouble because he was able to throw all three pitches for strikes.”
Ryan Heinz and Adam Albers combined for five innings of relief work for Sanford and prevented the Diamond Dawgs from further scoring.
“The bullpen came in for five innings of shutout baseball against one of the better lineups we ar going to face,” said Piercefield.
“Defense kept doing what it was doing,” Piercefield said about fielding, including a 5-4-3 double play to end the sixth inning, and a hard throw from right fielder James Ramsay to catcher Andrew Valencia to tag Michael Danner six feet from the plate in the ninth.
“We threw up a zero in the error column. That’s always nice,” Piercefield said. “We also swung the bat well. As the game progressed, our at-bats got continually better.”
The River Rats had their best scoring opportunity in the sixth with bases loaded after Austin Liput reached by way of walk, followed by an Andrew Valencia one-out double and a Ramsay walk. Unfortunately for Sanford, Winter Park turned a double play of their own - a 4-6-3 that ended the inning.
Third baseman TJ Gavlick scored the first run for Sanford in the seventh. The second River Rats run came in the eighth as Liput crossed the plate on a Ramsay RBI double. Liput led off with a hit ground ball along the first base line that hit first base and bounced into the outfield allowing him to reach second. In the following at-bat, Ramsay tacked on another double for the Rats driving in Liput, 5-2.
“We’re gonna get after it on Saturday,” Piercefield said. “As the game went along, you saw everyone settle in. If we can maintain that, we’re going to be a powerhouse for the league.”
The River Rats will hit the road as they face the Winter Haven Loggerheads on Saturday, June 4 at Chain of Lakes Field. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m.
Read this article on the FCSL website here.
Despite the loss, “There were a lot of positives tonight,” River Rats Head Coach Steve Piercefield said. “These guys played extremely hard tonight.”
River Rats (0-1) starting pitcher JR Edwards was charged with the loss giving up four earned runs on seven hits in four complete innings on the bump.
Jeremy Strawn started on the mound for Winter Park (1-0) and earned the win after he threw five shutout innings. He recorded eight strikeouts, including six consecutively, while allowing three hits.
“He did an excellent job,” Piercefield said of Strawn. “Guys like that are going give everybody trouble because he was able to throw all three pitches for strikes.”
Ryan Heinz and Adam Albers combined for five innings of relief work for Sanford and prevented the Diamond Dawgs from further scoring.
“The bullpen came in for five innings of shutout baseball against one of the better lineups we ar going to face,” said Piercefield.
“Defense kept doing what it was doing,” Piercefield said about fielding, including a 5-4-3 double play to end the sixth inning, and a hard throw from right fielder James Ramsay to catcher Andrew Valencia to tag Michael Danner six feet from the plate in the ninth.
“We threw up a zero in the error column. That’s always nice,” Piercefield said. “We also swung the bat well. As the game progressed, our at-bats got continually better.”
The River Rats had their best scoring opportunity in the sixth with bases loaded after Austin Liput reached by way of walk, followed by an Andrew Valencia one-out double and a Ramsay walk. Unfortunately for Sanford, Winter Park turned a double play of their own - a 4-6-3 that ended the inning.
Third baseman TJ Gavlick scored the first run for Sanford in the seventh. The second River Rats run came in the eighth as Liput crossed the plate on a Ramsay RBI double. Liput led off with a hit ground ball along the first base line that hit first base and bounced into the outfield allowing him to reach second. In the following at-bat, Ramsay tacked on another double for the Rats driving in Liput, 5-2.
“We’re gonna get after it on Saturday,” Piercefield said. “As the game went along, you saw everyone settle in. If we can maintain that, we’re going to be a powerhouse for the league.”
The River Rats will hit the road as they face the Winter Haven Loggerheads on Saturday, June 4 at Chain of Lakes Field. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m.
Read this article on the FCSL website here.
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