Fossas fires gem, but Frogs stun 'Tugas, 2-1
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Despite not making a start since August 28, 2016, prior to July 21, RHP Aaron Fossas twirled eight innings of three-hit shutout ball. However, Florida scored two runs against the bullpen in the ninth, as the Fire Frogs stunned the Daytona Tortugas, 2-1, in front of 1,295 fans at
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Despite not making a start since August 28, 2016, prior to July 21, RHP Aaron Fossas twirled eight innings of three-hit shutout ball. However, Florida scored two runs against the bullpen in the ninth, as the Fire Frogs stunned the Daytona Tortugas, 2-1, in front of 1,295 fans at Jackie Robinson Ballpark on Tuesday night.
Daytona (20-27, 55-57) held a 1-0 lead entering the ninth. With nobody on and two out, 1B Drew Lugbauer (1-4, R, HR, RBI, SO) lofted a high drive to right. RF Andy Sugilio leaped at the fence, but it was out of his reach for a game-tying solo home run. The 22-year-old's 16th blast of the season tied the game up at one.
Two pitches later, LF Jefrey Ramos (2-4, R, SO) smashed a base-hit to center to keep Florida's (19-28, 44-69) rally going. On the very next offering, C Logan Brown (1-4, 2B, RBI) clocked a liner off the right-field fence. Ramos chugged around from first to put the Fire Frogs ahead, 2-1.
The Tortugas were unable to muster anything in the bottom of the ninth. RHP Brandon White (1.0 IP, SO) entered and hurled a perfect inning of relief to seal Florida's win and his fourth save of the year.
It was a scoreless contest through six and a half before Daytona cracked the scoreboard in the seventh. With a man at first and two out, DH Bruce Yari (1-4, 2B, RBI, SO) lifted a shot over the left fielder's head and off the wall. Sugilio (0-4, R) sped around to cross the plate, putting the Tortugas in front, 1-0.
Fossas (8.0 IP, 3 H, 6 SO) was marvelous for Daytona. The 26-year-old - making just his sixth career start out of 136 appearances - compiled eight scoreless frames, but ended up with a no-decision. RHP Connor Bennett (1.0 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 2 ER, SO) suffered a blown save and his first Florida State League loss.
Florida's RHP Brooks Wilson (8.0 IP, 6 H, R, ER, 2 BB, 8 SO) was stellar, too. The Stetson University alum lasted a career-long eight innings and garnered his third victory of the campaign.
The six-game homestand draws to a close on Wednesday, as Daytona is expected to hand the ball to RHP Mac Sceroler (4-3, 3.99 ERA) in the series finale. Florida is scheduled to counter with RHP Walter Borkovich (2-4, 4.46 ERA).
The Tortugas Pre-Game Show will kick off the broadcast at 6:50 p.m. ET, leading up to the 7:05 p.m. ET start at Jackie Robinson Ballpark. Wednesday evening's contest can be heard on www.daytonatortugas.com or via the TuneIn Radio and MiLB First Pitch apps.
Fun and community will be center stage with another Wishful Wednesday presented by VyStar Credit Union. Each Wednesday home game, the Tortugas celebrate, recognize, and help raise awareness and funds for local charities around Volusia County. Fans are encouraged to bring their four-legged furry friends for a "nine-inning vacation" of their own for a Bark in the Park Night presented by NextHome at the Beach. For just $2, patrons can purchase a "pooch pass" to have their pup join them at the game.
Multi-game plans and single-game tickets are still currently available and can be purchased online at www.daytonatortugas.com, or by calling the Tortugas' Ticket Office at (386) 257-3172.
ABOUT THE DAYTONA TORTUGAS
The Daytona Tortugas are the High-A Affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and a member of the Florida State League. The Tortugas play at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in downtown Daytona Beach, Fla. Jackie Robinson Ballpark also plays host to Bethune-Cookman University, the Beijing Shougang Eagles of National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) and many large community events and initiatives throughout the season.