Tigers blank ValleyCats 9-0

NORWICH, CT - The ValleyCats opened the 2017 New York-Penn League season with a 9-0 loss against the Connecticut Tigers on Tuesday. 2016 first round pick Matt Manning led the Tigers, with 4.1 innings pitched and allowing just 3 hits, while striking out 9 batters.

The Tigers started quickly, with a first inning home run off the bat of Randel Alcantara, and a second inning RBI double from Sam Machonis. Machonis wasn't done there, as he singled in two more runs in the bottom of the fourth inning to make it 4-0.
The ValleyCats threatened in the fifth inning, after Kristian Trompiz recorded his second hit of the day and Frankeny Fernandez drew a walk. The 'Cats employed some aggressive base stealing, as Trompiz recorded two steals and Fernandez recorded his first steal. However, the inning came to quiet end, with Andy Pineda flying out to short center field.
Things quickly fell apart for the 'Cats, after allowing five runs in the seventh inning. It began with the first home run of the year for Hector Martinez, before Colin McKee came in and loaded the bases. A passed ball, walk and 2-run RBI single by Alexis Garcia and the game was blown open to give the Tigers a 9-0 lead.
The 'Cats travel back home tomorrow for their 2017 home opener against the Lowell Spinners (Boston Red Sox) at 7:00 pm, presented by Rensselaer County Department of Health. All fans will receive a 2017 ValleyCats schedule magnet and there will be a postgame fireworks display, presented by Market 32.