Miracle Blanked In Series Finale, Falling 7-0

PORT CHARLOTTE, FL (April 15, 2010)-After allowing only one run in two games against the Stone Crabs, the Miracle couldn't get the bats going themselves on Thursday as they were shutout - 7-0. Nick Barnese (2-0) gave Charlotte (3-2) seven strong shutout innings as he allowed only three hits while striking out five for the victory.

The Tampa Bay Rays' 3rd round pick in 2007 from Simi Valley, CA, was very effective from start to finish, needing only 80 pitches in the seven innings.

The Miracle (2-5) fell short of the series sweep, after winning game one on Tuesday 2-0 and game two on Wednesday 2-1.

It was a close game through the first four plus innings, until the Stone Crabs were able to chase Miracle starter Bobby Lanigan in the fifth. After picking up two quick outs in the inning, an error allowed things to continue as Charlotte would eventually score two more in the frame. Lanigan (0-1) picked up his first loss of the season, as he allowed just three hits and one earned run while striking out five in 4 and 2/3 innings pitched.

Tonight's game featured the season debut of Stone Crabs' shortstop Tim Beckham, who was the first overall pick in the 2008 MLB draft. The Atlanta, GA native picked up his first hit and RBI in a 'Crabs uniform in the fifth. He had been sidelined with a left wrist injury to begin the season.

Even though the Miracle were only able to manage four hits on the night, three were for extra-bases. Dan Rohlfing doubled in the third for his first hit of the season, with Evan Bigley and Drew Thompson adding late-inning doubles. Thompson, along with Yangervis Solarte who had the other hit on the night, extended their hitting streaks to five games.

Fort Myers will now head to Palm Beach for a weekend series against the Cardinals to wrap up their seven-game road swing. RHP Bruce Pugh (0-1, 9.00 ERA) will make his second start of the season, with first pitch Friday night set for 7:05 p.m from Roger Dean Stadium. You can listen to every pitch online at www.miraclebasebll.com, with the "Voice of the Miracle", Alex Margulies, carrying the action. Pre-game will begin at 6:45 p.m.

The Miracle return home Monday, April 19th to play Port Charlotte at Hammond Stadium. Join us for our "Cheaper By The Gallon Monday", brought to you by Edison Oil & Marathon Gas Stations and Sunny 106.3. You can also still sign up for the "Humana Silver Slu