Wood Ducks Swept by the Pelicans

KINSTON, NC - The Wood Ducks (9-17, 44-52) closed their 26 consecutive game stretch with a dud on Monday, falling 2-0 to the Pelicans (12-13, 46-49). Myrtle Beach spoiled Steven Bruce's third consecutive quality start while the Down East offense was kept in check.

Bruce worked into the seventh inning with one earned run and five strikeouts in the loss. He lowered his ERA back under four in the loss to 3.59. It is the second time in his last three starts, and fifth start overall Bruce did not receive any run support. 
LeDarious Clark followed up yesterday's performance with another multi-hit effort. He knocked two singles, drew a walk, and stole third base on the night as well. He was left on base all three times he reached as the DEWDs left nine runners aboard.
The Woodies trailed 1-0 in the seventh and Steven Bruce was pulled with one out and a man on third. Originally, Spike Owen opted for Robby Rowland from the bullpen. However the right-hander had to exit during his warm-ups with an injury. Locke St. John was forced into the game with very little preparation, but he induced a ground ball with the infield in to cut down the runner at home.
The Pelicans added an unearned run in the eighth after a pair of walks but St. John still limited the damage by leaving the bases loaded. Down East just could not cash-in with runners in scoring position, finishing the night 0-for-6 in run-scoring opportunities and now 3-for-37 (.081) during the losing streak.
Tuesday is the first off day of the second half for the Wood Ducks. They will hit the road on Wednesday to open a six-game road trip with three games in Frederick and three in Buies Creek. The Wood Ducks return home on Tuesday, July 24th to open a six-game home stand with Lynchburg and Frederick.