Utica Brewers Drop Road Game Against Syracuse

Rome, NY (WIBX) - The Syracuse Jr. Chiefs scored early, then held on against the Utica Brewers to maintain their lead in the New York Collegiate Baseball League's Eastern Division.

Syracuse (6-2) struck early, loading the bases with two walks and a single. Shortstop Alexander Sanchez then hit another single, scoring two runs.

After a shaky first inning, Tim Murdick, starting pitcher for the Brewers (6-6), settled down and didn't allow another run until the bottom of the sixth inning. Syracuse's designated hitter, Zach Lauricella, hit a triple to start the frame, then scored off an error by Utica's second baseman, Brett Dennis.

A second triple by Ryan Sonberg scored Sanchez Jr., giving Syracuse a 4-0 lead heading into the seventh inning. Murdick was replaced by relief pitcher David Sharpe, who threw two and a third innings and allowed one hit.

Down by four in the top of the eighth, the Brewers finally struck. After being issued two walks and a sacrifice hit to start the frame, Kenny Durling hit a single to score Jesse Pintado. Brett Dennis then hit a sacrifice fly to score Brian Pruett and tighten the game up, 4-2.

The score would remain unchanged though, as Kevin Carroll would collect his first save of the season, holding Utica to one hit and two walks.

Utica will take on the Syracuse Salt Cats tonight at 7, at Donovan Stadium. The first 500 fans through the gates will receive a free pair of thunder sticks.