June 14th, 2024
Zebulon, N.C.- The Carolina Mudcats (37-22) played host to the Fredericksburg Nationals (32-29) in Friday’s contest at Five County Stadium. The Mudcats entered today with a magic number of 3 to clinch the first half title. The Mudcats sent Bishop Letson (0-3) to the mound who entered tonight with a 3.10 ERA in 29 innings pitched. The Nationals sent Jarlin Susana (1-6) to the mound who entered tonight with a 6.44 ERA in 36.1 innings pitched.
The Mudcats scored first in the bottom of the first inning with 2 runs. The scoring started with a 2 run single to left field by Yhoswar Garcia which gave the Mudcats a 2-0 lead. The Nationals responded in the top of the second with 4 runs to take the lead. The scoring started with a sacrifice fly to center by Everett Cooper III which cut the lead to 2-1. Then a bases loaded double by Elijah Green cleared the bases which gave the Nationals a 4-2 lead.
The Nationals expanded their lead in the top of the 6th with a double to left field by Jared McKenzie which expanded the lead to 5-2. The Mudcats left the bases loaded in the bottom of the 9th.
The Mudcats magic number stayed at 3 after tonight’s action. The win for the Nationals went to Jarlin Susana who pitched five innings while allowing 2 runs. The lose for the Mudcats went to Bishop Letson who gave up 4 runs in 5 innings. The save for the Nationals went to Anthony Arguelles who pitched one scoreless inning. The Mudcats return to action tomorrow at 5 pm against the Nationals.
Manager Stanley met with the media after the game. When asked about the production of the bottom of the lineup Manager Stanley said:
“Look, for me, we’re looking for good, competitive at bats, out of everybody every night, whether you’re hitting first or you’re hitting 9th, that’s sort of what we’re looking for. So good job by the bottom tonight, hopefully some more guys contribute tomorrow.”
When asked about the performance of the bullpen tonight Manager Stanley said:
“Just them throwing strikes and being on the attack. I think that’s the key for most guys at this level, is to come into the game, be ready to go and attack hitters.”