Patriots Snap Sharks 5-Game Winning Streak

CAMDEN, NJ— The Camden Riversharks were defeated by the Somerset Patriots 2-0 in front of 3,909 fans at Campbell`s Field tonight. Before tonight`s game, Somerset was at the top of the standings in the Southern Division of the Atlantic League, while Camden made a late season run to second place trailing only six games. The Patriot win snaps the Riversharks season-long winning streak at five games and extends the gap to seven games.

The fans who stayed through the 1 hour, 34 minute rain delay in the bottom of the fifth inning witnessed a spectacular pitching performance by both starters. Camden starter Lincoln Mikkelson went eight scoreless innings allowing six hits, one walk and six strikeouts. Mikkelson has not allowed a run in his last two starts, a stretch of 15 scoreless innings. Somerset starter Steve Renko did not return after the rain delay, pitching 4 1/3 innings giving up three hits, three walks and three strikeouts. He then turned the ball over to relievers Luis Arroyo and John Briscoe, both of whom kept the shutout alive for the Patriots. Mikkelson did not have as much luck. He gave the ball to closer Jimmy Williams in the top of the ninth inning. After a leadoff single to third baseman Billy Hall, Williams threw one in the dirt that scooted past Camden catcher Guillermo Garcia allowing Hall to advance to second. Emiliano Escandon then struck out as the ball went past Garcia again, allowing him to reach first and Hall to take third. One out later and a fielder`s choice by Somerset designated hitter Greg Blosser, the shut out was over and the game went to the Patriots. The Patriots would score one more run for insurance on two straight singles by pinch hitter Charles Poe and rightfielder Kevin Dattola, respectively.

Williams took the loss dropping his record to 1-6 for the season with Camden, while Luis Arroyo improved his record to 5-0 with the win for Somerset. Offensively, Somerset were led by Billy Hall going 3-for-4 and Michael Warner going 2-for-4 on the night. On a positive note for Camden, Brad Strauss went 2-for-3 at the plate and designated hitter Darrell Nicholas went 2-for-4.

Tomorrow the Riversharks continue the three-game series with the Patriots with a 6:35 p.m. start time. Camden will send Mike Busby (6-9, 5.81) to the mound to battle Robert Dodd (8-4, 3.08). The Riversharks are in the beginning series of a nine-game homestand. Besides Somerset, Camden will face the Lehigh Valley Black Diamonds (8/26-8/28) and the Atlantic City Surf (8/29-8/31).

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Author: Camden Riversharks