Pulaski Mariners Lose in Heartbreaking Fashion

Down to their final out, the Danville Braves (13-8) found a new life on a crucial error by Alexy Palma. Palma dropped a fly ball which placed Justin Black, the tying run, on third. The Braves did not balk at the opportunity afforded them and tied the game up at four all.

Two innings later, Alejandro Piloto drove a Ricardo Pereira (0-1, 2.51 ERA) offering over the wall in left field to seal the Mariners' fate as the Braves won 5-4.

"It was a tough play for Palma to make" said manager Rob Mummau. "Unfortunately, the ball didn't stick in his glove, but I know he will bounce back."

Zack Littell (2-2, 5.27 ERA) started for the Mariners. Littell battled against Danville batters all night long-surrendering three runs on seven hits over five innings of work. In addition, he fanned seven to increase his season tally to 30 which is best in the Appalachian League.

"Littell competed very well" Mummau said. "All of his pitches were working, and he pitched with great conviction."

Pulaski's offense came to Littell's aid in the fifth and sixth innings. In the fifth, Yordi Calderon took an Andrew Waszak offering to the ribs to reach first. Four batters later, Chase Nyman singled home Calderon.

The Mariners struck again in the following inning. Rafael Fernandez led off the inning with a double. The next batter, Wayne Taylor smashed a RBI double into right field. Carlton Tanabe singled home Taylor to tie the game. Jay Baum finished the scoring binge with a double.

Fernandez provided a major offensive boost. He was perfect from the plate-going four-for-four with a walk.

"Fernandez gives us professional at-bats" said Mummau. "He's aware of the situation, and he never tries to do something he cannot do."

Pulaski hits the road for a six-game, two-series road trip. The Greeneville Astros welcome the Mariners first. Following an off day Pulaski contest a series with the Johnson City Cardinals.