Renegades Top Lake Monsters

WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY- The duo of Hudson Valley relievers Joe Ryan and Simon Rosenblum-Larson proved to be the difference as the Renegades defeated the Lake Monsters 6-5 Friday night from Dutch Stadium. Both men combined to throw 4.2 scoreless innings while striking out 10.
The winning run for the Renegades came in the fifth on a sac fly to right from first baseman Jacson McGowan, however it was a five-run third-inning that got the ball rolling for Hudson Valley. RBI singles from second baseman Garrett Giovannelli and Tanner Dodson started the scoring for the Renegades while McGowan chipped in with another sacrifice fly. Designated hitter Erik Ostberg provided the big blow with a two-run single to left to give the Renegades a 5-1 lead.
Vermont stormed back thanks to a four-run fifth. RBI singles by designated hitter Payton Squier and centerfielder Anthony Churlin aided in the cause. In addition, a wild pitch from Renegades starter Michael Mercado scored a run before the Lake Monsters tied the game. Centerfielder Anthony Churlin crossed home plate before first baseman Aaron Arruda was tagged out on a stolen base attempt to knot the game up at five.
The scoring started in the first inning for Vermont. A single and fielding error with two out set the stage for leftfielder Noah Vaughn who grounded a single to right to put the Lake Monsters ahead 1-0.
Ryan relieved Hudson Valley starting pitcher Michael Mercado in the midst of that four-run fourth inning for Vermont and proceeded to strike out three men over two frames. After he departed in the seventh, it was Rosenblum-Larson who dominated Vermont hitters. In 2.2 innings he struck out seven hitters; a team-high for this year's staff. For their efforts, Ryan (1-0) was credited with the win, while Rosenblum-Larson (1) got the save.
Taking the loss for Vermont was starting pitcher Abdiel Mendoza (0-1) who allowed six earned runs in 4.1 innings pitched.
The Renegades were outhit 11-5 but received two singles from centerfielder Tanner Dodson, while McGowan and Ostberg each drove in two runs. Squier, Churlin and rightfielder Enrry Pantoja each had two hits for the Lake Monsters as well.
 
The Renegades face the Lake Monsters in the finale of their three-game series tomorrow at 7:05 with fireworks to follow. Righthander Nick Padilla (0-1, 16.20 ERA) will go for the Renegades against fellow righty Adam Reuss (0-0, 0.00 ERA) of the Lake Monsters. Tickets can be purchased online at hvrenegades.com or by calling the ticket office at 845-838-0094.