Fightins set single-season team home run record in loss

(Reading, Pa) - The Reading Fightin Phils (78-43) made history despite losing 2-1 to the Richmond Flying Squirrels (52-70). Dylan Cozens hit a home run in the bottom of the sixth that broke the single-season team record of 158 home runs. Reading also loses back-to-back games at home for the first time this season.  

Tyler Beede hit a RBI single off Tyler Viza in the top of the second to give Richmond a 1-0 lead. Dylan Cozens tied the game at 1-1 with his 35th home run of the season off Beede in the bottom of the sixth. He now has 107 runs batted in and it was his third straight game with a home run. The home run (159) broke the single-season team home run record by the 2004 Reading Phillies (158) and also tied his teammate Rhys Hoskins.

Viza left the game after two outs in the top of the seventh. Victor Arano entered the game and struck out Christian Arroyo to end the inning. Viza allowed just one run off seven hits (all singles) and three walks with four strikeouts. Miguel Nunez (4-2) entered the game in the top of the eighth. Tyler Horan hit a go-ahead home run off Nunez in the top of the ninth to give Richmond a 2-1 lead.  

Preston Claiborne earned his second save as he retired the side in the bottom of the ninth. Reading has now lost five out of their last six games. They have dropped to 15-16 in their last 31 games played. Nestor Molina (1-0) earned his first win by pitching a scoreless    

The Fightin Phils and Flying Squirrels wrap up their season-series on Thursday night. Fans can listen to the game on Sports Radio AM 1240/FM 98.5 and fightins.com beginning at 6:35 pm. Fans can also view the game on MiLB.tv beginning at 7:05 pm. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm.  

2016 playoff tickets are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium.