Austin Well, Somerset Patriots, Patriots
Somerset Patriots catcher, Austin Wells (Photo by Dave Janosz - JSN)

Somerset Patriots Continue to Struggle

The Portland Seadogs have clinched a playoff spot against the Somerset Patriots Wednesday as they won 12-7. Both teams combined for 19 runs and 24 hits in a crazy game. The Somerset Patriots couldn't really get the big hit and their pitching struggled throughout the game. Portland had two errors, but Somerset couldn't take advantage of them. Yankees reliever Miguel Castro pitched for the first time in a while during his rehab assignment and Harrison Bader continues to make progress as he eyes his return to the Yankees.

Randy Vasquez started for Somerset and was great for the first two innings. He started to struggle where he gave up three runs and finished with a walk and two strikeouts. Carlos Espinal was the first pitcher out of the bullpen, and he struggled mightily. He gave up five hits, four runs, one walk and one strikeout to bring his season era to 3.16. Yankees reliever Miguel Castro came in next for his rehab assignment outing. He only recorded one out, while allowing three hits and one run along with a few passed balls.

The Somerset Patriots' offense continues to be a strong point in these two loses so far during the series. They are getting a lot of production throughout the order and scoring runs when needed. Right fielder Jeisson Rosario, shortstop Trey Sweeney, DH Harrison Bader and catcher Austin Wells all hit home runs for Somerset.

Bader had a great game Wednesday as he continues to make progress on his rehab assignment and is one step closer to making the debut with New York. He reached on an error, hit a solo home run and a bloop single in the game. Bader looked excellent running the bases and played outstanding defense. He should be ready for his Yankees debut, but they want him to play more in the outfield with Somerset Patriots before he comes up.

The Somerset Patriots drop to 81-51 on the season and will continue to get ready for the playoffs. Right now, the pitchers need to do a better job of locating and limiting the damage. The offense has been clicking on all cylinders and should continue to do so in the series.

Look For Somerset Patriots to Bounce Back and Finish Strong Before the Playoffs.