Early Eruption Downs Barnstormers.

Somerset Strikes Big in 8-2 Win

For the second consecutive night, the Somerset Patriots jumped out to a huge early lead.

The Patriots erupted for six runs over the first three innings and coasted to an 8-2 win over the host Lancaster Barnstormers Friday evening at Clipper Magazine Stadium.

Lancaster, despite losing five of its last six games, remained one game ahead of York in the second half Freedom Division race.

Kyle Roller provided the huge early thrust for Somerset, clubbing a two-run homer in the first off Jarret Leverett (7-6).  In the third, the Somerset DH followed a one-out triple down the first base line by Justin Pacchioli with a double out of the reach of center fielder Beau Amaral for a 3-1 lead.  Following a walk to Mark Minicozzi, Carlos Guzman launched a ground rule double to left, and Adam Donachie doubled into the left field corner for a two-run double, building a 6-1 Somerset lead.

Will Oliver (5-3) was reached in the second for the only run he allowed over eight innings.  Josh Bell picked up a leadoff walk and went to second on Nate Coronado’s one-out single into right.  Garrett Weber banged a double into the right field corner.

Lancaster had other opportunities against Weber, leaving runners in scoring position in five different innings.

Weber was also responsible for the Barnstormers’ second run, lashing a Ronnie Shaban pitch over the wall in right center field, leading off the ninth.

Rommie Lewis (6-9) will make the start for the Barnstormers on Saturday evening at 6:30.  Fireworks will follow the game.  Fans may tune into the Barnstormers YouTube Channel, beginning at 6:15.

NOTES:  Sean Halton knocked out his 51^st and 52^nd extra-base hits of the season…Weber’s homer was his first since the walkoff homer of July 2^nd, also against Shaban…Anthony Carter extended his scoreless innings (and appearances) streak to 18.