Greensboro Grasshoppers Win 2011 SAL Championship

The final game of the five game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greensboro Grasshoppers was played in front of 1,210 fans Saturday evening at Grayson Stadium. The hot hitting Grasshoppers pounded out 16 hits to beat Savannah by the score of 7-3 to win the 2011 SAL Championship.

Savannah took a 2-0 lead in the 3rd inning. 2bJuan Gamboa walked and scored when lfAlonso Harris hit a double down the left field line. cfDarrell Ceciliani singled to score the speedy Harris.

Greensboro had a big inning in the 4th-the first two batters made outs and the "Hoppers" scored 5 runs on 3 singles, a double, and a triple to take a 5-2 lead.

In the 5th inning, the first two hitters for Greensboro made outs, and they scored 2 runs on 4 singles to lead, 7-2.

Savannah scored their final run in the 7th inning; Harris tripled to right field and scored on an error by the 3rd baseman fielding a ground ball.

Hitting stars for Greensboro:2bNoah Perio was 4-for-6. Getting two hits each, rfMarcel Ozuna, lfChristian Yelich, 1bMark Canha, and cfIsaac Galloway.

Leading hitter for Savannah was Harris who went 2-for-3 a double, triple, 2 runs scored and a RBI.

Loosing pitcher for Savannah was starter, Angel Cuan, pitched 3 2/3 innings, allowed 5 runs on 8 hits, 1BB, 2K. Adam Kolarek pitched 1 1/3 inning, gave up 2 runs on 4 hits, 1K. Yohan Almonte went 1 2/3 innings, gave up 2 hits, 1BB, 2K. Gonzales Germen pitched 2 1/3 innings, allowed 2 hits and struck out 1.

It was a great season for the Savannah Sand Gnats.

Grasshoppers win in the 11th to tie the series at 2-2

Game four of the SAL championship series was played between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greensboro Grasshoppers in front of 1,787 fans Friday evening at Grayson Stadium. Fans saw an offensive show with Greensboro out hitting Savannah 17-14, and they outscored Savannah to win the game 12-10 in 11 innings. The championship game will be played Saturday starting at 6:05 pm at Grayson Stadium.

Grasshoppers scored a run in the first and added 4 runs in the 2nd, highlighted by a 3 run home run by rfMarcel Ozuna.

Savannah scored 2 runs in the 3rd inning, 3bAderline Rodriquez hit a solo home run to left.

In the 4th inning the first 7 Gnats batters reached base and scored with no outs recorded. Rodriquez drove in two runs with a single. A bases loaded triple by cfDarrell Cecilianibrought in three runs. Savannah scored their final run in the 11th inning.

For Savannah, ssWilfredo Tovar was 3-for-6 with 2 RBI's. Rodriquez was 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI's

Savannah used 6 pitchers. Erik Goeddel went 4 innings, allowed 7 runs on 6 hits, 3BB, 3K.Michael Hebert pitched 1 inning, allowed 1 run on 2 hits. Ryan Fraser pitched 2 innings, gave up 4 hits and struck out 2. Brandon Sage pitched 1 2/3 innings, allowed 1 run on 2 hits 1BB, 2K. Ronny Morla took the loss(0-1) pitched 2 innings, gave up 3 runs on 3 hits, 3BB, 1K.Hamilton Bennett pitched 1/3 of an inning and struck out 1.

Sand Gnats win in the 11th on Bonfe hit.

With the SAL Championship series at one game apiece, the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greensboro Grasshoppers played in front of 1,634 fans Thursday evening at Grayson Stadium. It was an exciting game and finish as Joe Bonfe hit a single near the right field line with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 11th inning to help Savannah win the game 4-3 and take a 2-1 lead in the series. Tomorrow the Sand Gnats have an opportunity to win the SAL Championship with game 4 starting at 7:05 at Grayson Stadium.

Savannah took a 1-0 lead scoring in the 2nd inning. Bonfe doubled to left field. With the bases loaded, Bonfe scored on a wild pitch.

In the 4th, Savannah took a 2-1 lead when dhAlbert Cordero doubled and went to third on a groundout. A single by lfAlonso Harris drove in Cordero.

With the Gnats trailing 3-2 going into the bottom of the 7th inning, Savannah tied the game with cfDarrell Ceciliani singled and scored on a double by rfRaferal Fernandez.

Sand Gnats out hit the Grasshoppers 11-8. Ceciliani was 3-for-4 and scored 2 runs. Bonfe went 3-for-6 with a run scored. Cordero was 2-for-4 with a run scored.

Starting Savannah pitcher, Taylor Whitenton, pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowed 3 runs on 5 hits, and struck out 8. Adam Kolarek pitched 2 1/3 innings, allowed 2hits and struck out 1. Hamilton Bennett pitched 1 inning, gave up 1 hit, walked 1. Winning pitcher, Chase Huchingson (1-1) pitched 1 inning and struck out 1.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of the Savannah Sports Monthly.

Savannah Beats Augusta to Win Southern Division Championship

The final game of the three game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets was played in front of 910 fans at Grayson Stadium Saturday evening. Savannah won the Southern Division by beating Augusta 3-1 and advance next week to play the Northern Division winner, Greensboro Grasshoppers.

Savannah used strong pitching to win the game. Sand Gnats scored in the first inning when cf Darrell Ceciliani hit a triple and scored on a sac fly by ss Wilfredo Tovar. In the 2nd inning, 3bAderline Rodriquez hit a double, went to third on a wild pitch, and scored on a ground out. Savannah scored in the 4th inning, 1bJoe Bonfe singled and would score on a fielding error by the first baseman.

Sand Gnats out hit the GreenJackets 6-5. Ceciliani was 2-for-3 with a run scored.

Winning Savannah pitcher, Erik Goeddel, pitched 5 shutout innings, allowed 3 hits, 3BB, 4K. Ryan Fraser pitched 2 shutout innings and struck out 1. Brandon Sage pitched 2/3 inning, allowed 1 run on 1 hit, 1K. Earning the save, Ronny Morla, pitched 1 1/3 inning, allowed 1 hit and struck out 2.

Savannah will play Monday and Tuesday in Greensboro against the Northern Champions, Greensboro Grasshoppers in the best of 5 game for the SAL championship. Sand Gnats will return to Grayson Stadium in Savannah to finish the series on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday if needed.

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Savannah Beats Augusta 3-2 to level series at 1-1

The second game of the playoff series was played between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets Friday evening at Grayson Stadium in front of 3,413 fans. Three errors by Augusta and clutch hitting by Savannah helped the Sand Gnats win 3-2.

Augusta scored in the second inning off, Johan Santana, who was rehabbing from the N. Y. Mets-pitched the first three innings for Savannah.

Sand Gnats scored their first run in the 4th inning. 1bJoe Bonfe walked and advanced to third on a throwing error by the pitcher. Bonfe scored on a sac fly by 2bLuis Nieves.

In the 5th inning, Savannah scored when cfDarrell Ceciliani singled and scored from first when ssWilfredo Tovar laid down a bunt which was fielded by the pitcher who threw the ball over the head of the first baseman.

With the score tied 2-2 going into the bottom of the 8th, cAlbert Cordero singled. Blake Forsythe hit a double to left field to score Cordero from first with the winning run(Forsythe pinch hit for Juan Gamboa).

Savannah out hit Augusta 8-6. Ceciliani was 4-for-4 with a run scored. Cordero was 2-for-4 with a run scored.

Starting Savannah pitcher, Johan Santana, pitched 3 innings, allowed 1 run(unearned) on 2 hits, 1BB and 1K. Taylor Whitenton pitched 3 1/3 innings, allowed 1 run on 3 hits, 2BB, 6K. Winning pitcher, Adan Kolarek (1-0) allowed 1 hit in 1 2/3 innings. Closer Hamilton Bennett earned the save pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning.

The series concludes Saturday at 6:05 at Grayson Stadium with the winner advancing next week to play the northern team winner for the SAL championship .

Augusta 4 Savannah 1

I had the opportunity to attend the first playoff game in Augusta, Georgia with the Savannah Sand Gnats playing the Augusta GreenJackets Wednesday evening. Augusta out hit Savannah 9-6 and won the game, 4-1.

Savannah scored first in the 5th inning when 1bJoe Bonfe tripled and scored on a ground out by 3bAderline Rodriquez.

The GreenJackets scored their 4 runs in the bottom of the 7th inning, highlighted by a 3 run home to centerfield by dhAdam Duvall.

For Savannah, rfRaferal Fernandez was 2-for-4. 2bLuis Nieves was 2-for-3.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher, Angel Cuan, pitched 6 shutout innings, allowed 6 hits and struck out 5. Chase Huchingson (0-1) took the loss pitching 1 inning, allowed 4 runs on 2 hits, walked 2, struck out 1. Ryan Fraser pitched 1 inning, allowed 1 hit, struck out 1, walked 2.

The announced attendance was 1,136.

The second game of this playoff series will be played in Savannah at Grayson Stadium Friday evening starting at 7:05pm.

Sunday Batting Practice

This past Sunday, the Savannah Sand Gnats season ticket holder fans were invited to participate in batting practice before the Gnats game with the Charleston RiverDogs.

After one hour of batting practice, Sand Gnat players, staff, and fans got together at the picnic area of the stadium for hamburgers and hot dogs.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Savannah 11 Charleston 8

The fifth game of the five game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Charleston RiverDogs was played in front of 1,099 fans Tuesday evening at Grayson Stadium. Scoring 7 runs in the 4th inning helped the Gnats win the game, 11-8.

Savannah scored 2 runs in the 3rd inning. lfAlonso Harris was hit by a pitch and scored on a triple by cfDarrell Ceciliani. A groundout scored Ceciliani. In the 4th inning Savannah scored 7 runs on three hits, a hit batter, and 4 walks. The final 2 Gnats runs were scored in the 7th inning.

Charleston out hit Savannah 11-7. Ceciliani was 2-for-4 with a double, triple, 2 runs scored, and 2RBI's. Harris was 1-for-2 with 2 runs scored. cBlake Forsythe was 2-for-4, a double, 2RBI's, and 2 runs scored.

Winning Savannah pitcher, Taylor Whitenton, (5-4) pitched 5 innings, allowed 3 runs(one earned) gave up 6 hits, struck out 5. Guillaume Leduc pitched 3 innings, allowed 5 runs on 5 hits, 1BB. Ronny Morla pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning to earn his 10 save of the season.

Charleston 9 Savannah 6

The fourth game of the five game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Charleston RiverDogs was played in front of 2,091 fans Monday evening at Grayson Stadium. The RiverDogs out hit the Gnats 16-10 to win the game by the score of 9-6.

Charleston scored their first run in the 1st inning and exploded in the second inning scoring 6 runs on 6 straight hits to take the lead 7-1.

Savannah scored their first run in the 2nd inning. 2bLuis Nieves drew a walk and scored on a triple by cfDarrell Ceciliani. Gnats scored 3 runs in the 3rd inning, dh Blake Forsythe singled to drive in 2 runs and a run scored on a ground out into a double play. Savannah scored their final 2 runs in the 5th inning.

Gnats getting multiple hits. cAlbert Cordero went 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored. Ceciliani was 2-for-4 with a triple and 1 RBI. 3bAderline Rodriquez was 2-for-4 with a double a run scored, and 1 RBI. ssWilfredo Tovar extended his hitting streak to 8 straight games.

Taking the loss for Savannah, Gonzales Germen (7-7) pitched 1 1/3 innings, allowed 7 runs on 10 hits, 1BB, 1K. Brandon Sage pitched 2 2/3 shutout innings, gave up 3 hits. Ryan Fraser pitched 2 2/3 innings, allowed 2 runs on 3 hits, 2BB, 4K. Hamilton Bennett did not allow a hit or run in 1 1/3 innings pitched. Ronny Morla pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning and struck out one.

Batting Prtactice

Prior to the Savannah Sand Gnat/Charleston RiverDog game on Sunday, Savannah Sand Gnat season ticket holder fans were invited to take part in batting practice in the batting cage at home plate at Grayson Stadium.

The hitting coach for the Savannah Sand Gnats, Benny Distefano, former big league veteran(Pirates & Astros), threw batting practice to the fans for an hour.

After batting practice, , the Sand Gnats players, staff, and fans got together in the picnic area for hamburgers and hot dogs.

The afternoon game saw the RiverDogs beat the Gnats by the score of 5-1.

Charleston 5 Savannah 1

The third game of the five game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Charleston RiverDogs was played Sunday afternoon in front of 1,166 fans at Grayson Stadium. The RiverDogs out hit the Gnats 10-7 to win the game 5-1.

Charleston scored a run in the 2nd inning 3bKevin Mahoney doubled and scored on a single by ssJosse Mojica. In the 4th, Charleston took a 3-0 lead on back to back singles and another single scored a run- a ground out scored another run in the inning.

In the 5th inning, the RiverDogs loaded the bases on 3 straight walks, scored a run on a double play. A double scored another run.

Savannah scored their only run in the 8th inning when 2bLuis Nieves doubled and scored on a double by ssWilfredo Tovar.

The only multiple Gnat hitter was Tovar who was 2-for-4 with 2 doubles and 1RBI. Tovar has a seven-game hitting streak.

Loosing pitcher for Savannah, Yohan Almonte(7-8), pitched 4 innings, allowed 3 runs on 8 hits, 1BB, 2K. Luis Rojas pitched 1 inning, allowed 1 hit, 2 runs, 3BB. Michael Hebert pitched 3 shutout innings, 1 hit, 5K, 2BB. Guillaume Leduc pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning.

Gnats Hot Bats Beats RiverDogs 15-3

The second game of the five game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Charleston RiverDogs was played in front of 2,451 fans Saturday evening at Grayson Stadium. Savannah pounded out 18 hits(last night they had 15) and scored 15 runs to win the game 15-3.

In the second inning, Savannah sent 9 players to the plate, scoring 6 runs. 1bJoe Bonfe was hit by a pitch and scored on a home run over the left field fence by 3bAderline Rodriquez(17th). ssWilfredo Tovar doubled to drive in a run. dhAlbert Cordero drove in a run with a single.

Savannah scored 2 runs in the 4th inning. lfAlonso Harris hit is first home run of the game over the left field fence. A single by rfRaferal Fernandez drove in a run.

In the 6th, Gnats scored 3 runs. Harris doubled and scored on a single by Tovar. A single by Bonfe scored 2 runs. Savannah scored a run in the 7th when Harris doubled and scored on a double by Tovar.

Final Gnat runs were scored in the 8th. Bonfe singled and would score on a ground out. cBlake Forsythe doubled and scored on the second home run of the game by Harris.

For the game Savannah out hit Charleston 18-5. Leading the Gnat hitting barrage was Harris who was 4-for-4 with 2 home runs, 2 doubles, 5 runs scored, 3 RBI's and a stolen base. CfDarrell Ceciliani was 2-for-4, 2 runs scored and a stolen base. Tovar was 3-for-4 with 2 doubles, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI's. Fernandez was 2-for-4 with 3RBI's and a run scored. Bonfe was 3-for-4 with 2RBI's and a run scored. Forsythe was 2-for-4 with a run scored.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher, Erik Goeddel, was brilliant, pitched 6 shut out innings, gave up only 1 hit, 3BB and struck out 8. Goeddel won the game and is now (3-4). Adam Kolarek earned his 5th save of the year, pitched 3 innings, allowed 3 runs on 4 hits, 1BB, 2K.

Savannah 7 Charleston 6

The first game of the five game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Charleston RiverDogs was played in front of 1,699 fans Friday evening at Grayson Stadium. It is the final home stand of the regular season. Going into the game, Savannah was tied for first place with Augusta with 10 games remaining. It was an exciting finish, with the score tied at 6-6, Savannah scored the winning run in the 9th inning when ssLuis Nieves suicide squeeze bunt scored cBlake Forsythe from 3rd base.

Savannah took a 2-0 lead in the 2nd inning. Forsythe singled, 3bAderline Rodriquez doubled and both runners scored on a single by 2b J. B. Brown.

In the 3rd inning, Charleston took a 4-2 lead as they scored 4 runs on 6 hits(2 doubles and 4 singles).

Savannah tied the game at 4-4 in the 4th inning on back to back home runs by Forsythe over the left-center fence and Rodriquez over the left field fence.

In the 6th inning, Gnats scored 2 runs. cfDarrell Ceciliani singled, stole second, and scored from third base on a wild pitch. DhAlbert Cordero singled to score a run.

The Gnats out hit the RiverDogs 15-9. Ceciliani was 4-for-5 with a triple, 2 stolen bases and one run scored. Cordero was 2-for-5 with 1 RBI. 1bJoe Bonfe went 2-for-5 with a double. Forsythe was 2-for-3 with a home run, 3 runs scored, and 1 RBI. Rodriquez went 3-for-5, with a home run, double, 2 runs scored, 1RBI and a stolen base.

Starting pitcher for Savannah Angel Cuan pitched 6 innings, gave up 6 runs on 9 hits, 1BB, 1K.

Chase Huchingson pitched 2 shutout innings, did not allow a hit, 1BB, 2K. Winning pitcher, Ronny Morla(3-3) pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out 1 batter.

Asheville 5 Savannah 2

The final game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Asheville Tourists was played in front of 1,816 fans Wednesday evening at Grayson Stadium. Asheville scored 4 runs in the 6th inning on 6 straight hits to help beat Savannah 5-2

The Gnats scored a run in the 5th inning. 2bJ. B. Brown singled and advanced to third on a single by cf Darrell Ceciliani. Brown scored on a bunt single by lfAlonso Harris.

Savannah scored in the 9th inning when c Blake Forsythe hit a home run over the 400 ft. center field fence.

Asheville out hit Savannah 11-8. Harris was 2-for-4 with one RBI. Ceciliani was 2-for-4 with a double.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher, Erik Goeddel, pitched 5 innings allowed 5 runs on 6 hits, 2BB, 2K.

Luis Rojas pitched 1 shutout inning, gave up 2 hits. Adam Kolarek pitched 3 shutout innings gave up 3 hits and struck out 2.

Rodriquez Homer in the 13th helps Gnats beat Tourists 3-2

The third game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Asheville Tourists was played in front of 873 fans Tuesday evening at Grayson Stadium. 3bAderline Rodriquez hit a home run over the left field fence with two outs in the bottom of the 13 inning to help Savannah defeat Asheville 3-2.

Savannah scored in the 3rd inning. 1bJoe Bonfe singled and scored when the bases were loaded and rfRaferal Fernandez was hit by a pitch.

Gnats scored a run in the 8th. lfAlonso Harris walked, went to second on a pass ball, and scored on a fielders choice and throwing error by the pitcher.

Rodriquez home run in the 13th, was his 14th of the season.

Gnats had 4 hits for the game. cfDarrell Ceciliani was 1-for-4. dhAlbert Cordero was 1-for-6. Bonfe was 1-for-4 with a double and a run scored. Rodriquez was 1-for-6 with his home run, a run scored and 1 RBI.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher Angel Cuan pitched 6 innings, allowed 1 run on 4 hits, 2K. Chase Huchingson pitched 2 shutout innings, struck out 1. Hamilton Bennett pitched 3 innings, allowed 1 run on 2 hits and struck out 1. Brandon Sage (1-0) won his first game of the year, pitched 2 shutout innings , walked 1 and struck out 1.

Gnats Edge Tourists 3-2

The second game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Asheville Tourists was played in front of 1,863 fans Monday evening at Grayson Stadium. Savannah had 9 hits for the game and their three pitchers held the Tourists to four hits to win the game 3-2.

Savannah scored in the first inning. ssWilfredo Tovar was hit by a pitch, reached second on a balk, and scored on a single by cAlbert Cordero.

In the 3rd inning, Gnats scored. lfAlonso Harris singled and reached second on a ground out. A double by Tovar scored Harris.

Asheville scored 2 runs in the 7th inning to tie the game at 2-2.

Savannah scored the go-ahead run in the 7th inning. cfDarrell Ceciliani singled and stole second. A single by rfRaferal Fernandez scored Ceciliani which turned out to be the winning run.

Hot Gnat hitter, Cordero was 2-for-4 with one RBI. Tovar was 1-for-2 with one RBI.

Sand Gnat starting pitcher, Taylor Whitenton was stellar pitching 6 shutout innings, allowed only 2 hits, 2BB and struck out 6. Winning pitcher, Michael Hebert(2-1) pitched 2 innings, allowed 2 runs on 2 hits, 1BB, 1K. Ronny Morla earned his 9th save, pitched the 9th inning, 1BB and struck out 2.

Asheville 5 Savannah 4

The first game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Asheville Tourists was played in front of 1,208 fans Sunday evening at Grayson Stadium. The Gnats out hit the Tourists, 6-5, but lost the game by the score of 5-4.

Savannah scored 2 runs in the first inning to take a 2-0 lead. cfDarrell Ceciliani lead off with a double, went to third on a wild pitch, and scored on a ground out. A double by cAlbert Cordero scored rf Raferal Fernandez who walked.

Asheville tied the game in the 3rd inning. 1bMark Tracy doubled and scored when ssJoey Wong hit a home run down the line over the right field fence..

Savannah scored their final 2 runs in the 6th inning. Fernandez singled and scored on a triple by Cordero. A fielding error allowed Cordero to score.

Cordero, who has the Gnats highest batting average at .286, was 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher Ryan Fraser took the loss(7-8), pitched 3 1/3 innings, allowed 4 runs on 3 hits, 4BB, and struck out 3. Brandon Sage pitched 1 1/3 allowed 1 run on 1 hit and walked 1. Gonzales Germen pitched 4 shut out innings, gave up 1 hit, 1BB, 2 strikeouts.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Rain Suspends Gnats/Drive Game Saturday

The final game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greenville Drive was played Saturday evening at Grayson Stadium. Heavy rains made the field unplayable and the game was stopped after 4 1/2 innings with Greenville leading 1-0. It was announced the game will be completed when the Gnats visit Greenville for the series from August 18-21.

Gnats Edge Drive in the 9th 5-4

The third game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greenville Drive was played in front of 992 fans Friday evening at Grayson Stadium. Gnat pitching limited the Drive to 4 hits for the game to help win the game, 5-4.

Savannah got off to a fast start scoring 3 runs in the 1st inning. cfAlonso Harris led off with a bunt single. ssWilfredo Tovar reached first on a force attempt and a throwing error allowed both runners to advance an extra base. rfRaferal Fernandez tripled to score 2 runs. Fernandez scores when cBlake Forsythe reached first on a throwing error.

Gnats added a run in the 7th. Tovar doubled with two outs and scored single by Fernandez.

It was an exciting 9th inning. Drive ss Xander Bogaerts hit a home run over the left-center field fence to tie the score at 4-4. Gnats had the bases loaded in the 9th and cBlake Forsythe with a 3-2 count walked to bring in the winning run.

Savannah had 10 hits for the game. Tovar was 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored and extended his hitting streak to 7 straight games. Nieves was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Fernandez was 2-for-4, a run scored and 3RBI's.

Starting Savannah pitcher, Eric Goeddel, Pitched 4 innings, allowed 3 runs on 2 hits, 3BB, 2strike outs. Winning pitcher Adam Kolarek (6-0) pitched 5 innings, allowed 1 run on 2 hits, 1BB and struck out 6.

Savannah 5 Greenville 3

The 2nd game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greenville Drive was played in front of 1,821 fans Thursday evening at Grayson Stadium. Bonfe and Butler with combined 6 hits and 4 runs scored, led the Gnats to a 5-3 win.

Savannah tied the score at 2-2 in the 2nd inning. 3bJoe Bonfe doubled and scored on a single by 1bJet Butler. cfDarrell Ceciliani singled to score Butler.

Gnats scored 3 runs in the 4th inning. Bonfe and Butler singled. 2bLuis Nieves singled to score Bonfe. lfAlonso Harris single loaded the bases. Butler and Nieves scored on a single by ssWilfredo Tovar.

Gnats out hit the Drive 13-10. Bonfe was 3-for-4 with a double and 2 runs scored. Butler went 3-for-4 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Ceciliani was 2-for-4 with 1 RBI.

Starting pitcher for Savannah, Angel Cuan, pitched 6 innings, allowed 2 runs on 6 hits 2BB and struck out 9. With the win, Cuan improved his record to 10-2. Chase Huchingson pitched 2 innings allowed 1 run on 3 hits, 1BB, 2K. Closer Hamilton Bennett earned his 12 save of the season, pitching the 9th inning, allowed 1 hit and struck out Vasquez on a called third strike to end the game.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of the Savannah Sports Monthly.

Drives 5 Doubles Down Gnats 7-2

The first game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greenville Drive was played in front of 1,494 fans Wednesday evening at Grayson Stadium. Five doubles by Drive hitters helped them win the game 7-2.

Drive catcher, Christian Vasquez doubled three consecutive times at bat driving in 5 runs for the game. Starting pitcher Kyle Stroup allowed Savannah only 4 hits, 2 runs, 6K, in 6 innings of work.

Savannah scored their runs in the 2nd inning. cAlbert Cordero singled and scored when 1bJoe Bonfe hit a home run blast over the left field fence to give the Gnats a 2-1 lead. It was the second home run of the year for Bonfe. k

Greenville out hit the Gnats 8-5 for the game. Cordero was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored. Cordero has hit in 10 straight games.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher Taylor Whitenton took the loss and is now(4-3). He pitched 4 1/3 innings, allowed 6 runs on 7 hits, 2BB and 5K. Luis Rojas pitched 3 2/3 shutout innings, 2BB, and 2K. Ronny Morla pitched 1 inning, allowed 1 run on 1 hit and walked 1.

RiverDogs 6 Sand Gnats 5

Last night I attended the game between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Charleston RiverDogs in Charleston. Twenty Savannah Sand Gnats fans took a limo bus to watch the game. Although Savannah out hit Charleston 13-8 they lost the game to the RiverDogs 6-5 in a thrilling 9th inning.

Swinging hot bats for the Gnats, cAlbert Cordero was 3-for-3 with a double and 1 RBI. ssWilfredo Tovar was 3-for-4. lfAlonzo Harris was 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored. cfDarrell Ceciliani was 2-for-4 with 1 RBI and 2 runs scored.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher, Angel Cuan took the loss and is now (9-2). He pitched 6 innings, allowed 5 runs on 7 hits, 1BB, and struck out 7.

With Savannah trailing 6-4 going in their 9th inning, they had the bases loaded with 1 out. Cordero walked to make the score 6-5 , but could not score another run.

The announced attendance was 4,722.

Savannah 5 Augusta 3

The final game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets was played in front of 1,897 fans Thursday evening at Grayson Stadium. The Gnats beat the GreenJackets 5-3 and won three games out of the four game series.

Savannah scored a run in the 1st. cfDarrell Ceciliani led off with a double and went to third on a ground out and scored on a sac fly.

In the 3rd, Savannah scored twice. Ceciliani singled, ssWilfredo Tovar singled, and rfRaferal Fernandez single scored Ceciliani. Tovar scored on a sac fly.

The final Savannah two runs were scored in the 8th inning. dhAlbert Cordero reached first on a throwing error by the shortstop and reached second on a sac bunt. lfJoe Bonfe walked. 1bJuan Torres single scored Harris who ran for Cordero at second base. A ground out scored Bonfe.

Savannah out hit Augusta 10-9. Torres went 3-for-4 with one RBI. Tovar was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Ceciliani was 2-for-5 with a double and 2 runs scored.

Starting Savannah pitcher Taylor Whitenton pitched 3 shutout innings, allowed 3 hits, 1BB and struck out 2. Luis Rojas 1 1/3 innings, allowed 3 runs on 4 hits and walked 1. Guillaume Leduc pitched 2 2/3 innings, gave up 1 hit, 1BB, and struck out 2. Winning pitcher Gabriel Zavala (2-5) pitched a 1-2-3 8th inning. Hamilton Bennett earned his 11th save, pitched the 9th inning, allowed 1 hit and struck out 2.

Gnats Shutout GreenJackets 2-0

The third game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets was played in front of 1,111 fans Wednesday evening at Grayson Stadium.

Savannah pitching of Fraser and Hebert was noteworthy,combined to allowed Augusta only 4 hits, no runs and struck out 9 batters.

Gnats scored in the second inning: cBlake Forsythe singled and dhAlbert Cordero singled. A ground out sent Forsythe to third and he scored when 1bJoe Bonfe grounded into a force out. In the 5th inning, Savannah scored their final run. 3bAderline Rodriquez hit a double. Bonfe singled moving Rodriquez to third. 2b Jet Butler singled to drive in Rodriquez.

Savannah had 6 hits for the game. Cordero, who had the only multiple hits for the game, was 2-for-3

Winning pitcher for the Gnats, Ryan Fraser,(7-7) pitched 5 shutout innings, allowed only 3 hits, 2BB and struck out 5. Earning his first save, Michael Hebert, pitched 4 shutout innings, allowed 1 hit, 1BB, and struck out 4.

Sand Gnats 8 GreenJackets 3

The second game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets was played in front of 1,003 fans Tuesday evening at Grayson Stadium.

Savannah scored 2 runs in the 2nd inning. 1bJoe Bonfe hit a double, moved to third on a ground out and scored on an error. cfDarrell Ceciliani doubled to drive in a run. In the 3rd inning, cAlbert Cordero hit a home run over the left field fence(his 5th of the year) and Savannah took a 3-2 lead.

Gnats scored a run in the 5th inning. In the 8th inning, Savannah scored 4 runs. 2bLuis Nieves singled and lfAlfonso Harris and ssWilfredo Tovar walked to load the bases. A double by rf Raferal Fernandez cleared the bases. dhBlake Forsythe singled to drive in Fernandez.

For the game, Savannah out hit Augusta 8-6. Cordero was 2-for-5 with a double, home run, 2RBI's, and a run scored. Fernandez was 2-for-5 with a double, 3 RBI's and a run scored.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher, Yohan Almomte won the game and is now (5-6). He pitched 6 innings, allowed 2 runs on 3 hits, 3BB, 3WP, and struck out 6. Guillume Leduc pitched 1 inning and gave up 1 hit. Hamilton Bennett earned his 10th save of the year, pitched 2 innings, allowed 1 run on 2 hits and struck out 2.

Augusta 4 Savannah 3

The first game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets was played in front of 1,980 fans Monday evening at Grayson Stadium. With the Gnats leading 3-2 going into the top of the 8th inning, the GreenJackets scored 2 runs to take the lead 4-3 held on to win the game.

Augusta scored a run in the first and Savannah answered with 2 runs in their first when 2bLuis Nieves tripled to drive in two runs who walked and reached base on an error. Savannah scored in the 4th: Nieves led off the inning with a bunt single, advanced to second on a ground out. A single by cfDarrell Ceciliani on a ground ball to third, followed by a throwing error by the third baseman, allowed Nieves to score.

Savannah out hit Augusta for the game 9-8. Nieves was 3-for-3 with a triple, 2RBI's, and a run scored. RfRaferal Fernandez was 2-for-3 with a walk.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher, Angel Cuan pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowed 2 runs on 5 hits, walked 1, and struck out 3. Losing pitcher, Ronny Morla, (2-3) pitched 1 1/3 innings, allowed 2 runs on 3 hits, 1BB, 2 strikeouts. Gabriel Zavala pitched the 9th, went 1-2-3 and struck out 1.

GnatsShutout Legends 2-0 to Sweep the Series

The Final game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Lexington Legends started Tuesday morning(11:00am) at Grayson stadium and finished in the afternoon drizzle. Savannah pitchers shutout Lexington and only allowed 4 hits to win the game 2-0 and sweep the four game series. Gnats have won 6 straight games.

Savannah scored both of their runs in the 6th inning. ssLuis Nieves walked and stole second. lfAlonso Harris on a 3-2 count hit a drive over the center fielders head for a triple to score Nieves. A single by rfRaferal Fernandez scored Harris.

Savannah had 6 hits for the game. 1b Jet Butler was 1-for-3. cJuan Torres was 1-for-3. Harris was 1-for-3 with a triple, 1 run scored and 1 RBI. Fernandez was 2-for-4 with 1 RBI.

Starting Sand Gnat starter Angel Cuan was stellar winning the game and improving his record to (9-1). He pitched 6 shutout innings, allowed only 1 hit, no walks, and struck out 9. Reliever Adam Kolarek was impressive earning his 4th save pitching 3 shutout innings, no BB, 3 hits, and struck out 2.

Gnats Rally in the 6th to Defeat Lexington 5-4

The third game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Lexington Legends was played in front of 2,502 fans Monday evening at Grayson Stadium. Down 4-2 going into the 6th inning, Savannah scored 3 runs to win the game 5-4. dhAlbert Cordero continued his torrid hitting driving in 3 runs for the game for Savannah.

Lexington scored 2 runs in the 1st inning with the help of 2 doubles and a single. They added a run in the 3rd inning. Legends final run was scored in the 5th inning when dh Ben Heath hit a home run to left field.

Savannah scored two runs in the 4th inning. Lf Rafael Fernandez singled and went to third on a double by cBlake Forsythe. A sac fly by Cordero scored Fernandez. Forsythe scored on a ground out. In the 6th inning, Savannah rallied to score 3 runs. ssWilfredo Tovar singled and Fernandez doubled and both scored on a single by Cordero to tie the game at 4-4. 1bJoe Bonfe hit a grounder to third who threw to first and the first baseman missed the catch for an error allowing Cordero to score.

Gnats had 8 hits for the game and Lexington had 11 hits. Fernandez was 2-for-4 with a double and 2 runs scored. Cordero was 1-for-3 with a run scored and 3 RBI's.

Starting Savannah Sand Gnat pitcher, Gonzales Germen pitched 5 innings, allowed 4 runs on 8 hits, 1BB and struck out 9. Chase Huchingson (6-2) won the game, pitched 2 shutout innings, allowed 2 hits and struck pout 1. Ronny Morla earned his 8th save, pitched 2 shutout innings, allowed 1 hit and struck out 1.

Savannah 4 Lexington 2

The second game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Lexington legends was played in front of 754 fans Sunday afternoon at Grayson Stadium. Strong Gnat pitching limited Lexington to 3 hits along with their hot bats helped Savannah win 4-2.

Savannah got on the scoreboard quickly as lead off hitter in the first, cfDarrell Ceciliani doubled, advanced to third on a ground out, and scored on a ground out. In the 3rd, Savannah scored two runs:lfAlonso Harris doubled and stole second. A bunt single by Ceciliani moved Harris to third and he scored on a groundout. A single by lfRaferal Fernandez scores Ceciliani. In the 4th, Gnats score 1bJoe Bonfe reaches first on a force out and scores when Harris hits a triple.

Gnats out hit the Legends 11-3. dhAlbert Cordero continued his hot hitting going 3-for-4(last night he was 4-5). Ceciliani was 3-for-4 with a double and 2 runs scored. Harris was 2-for-4 with a triple, a RBI and a run scored.

Making his first start since returning to the club on 7-20-11 from the disabled list, Michale Hebert had great control pitching 6 innings of shutout baseball, allowed only 2 hits and struck out 9. Herbert won his first game(1-0). Guillaume Leduc pitched 1 2/3 innings, allowed 2 runs(1 earned run), 1 hit and 2BB. Hamilton Bennett pitched 1 1/3 inning, struck out 2 to earn his 9th save of the year and lowered his ERA to 2.06.

Cordero's Bat Helps Gnats Beat Lexington 7-6

The first game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Lexington Legends(Houston Astros) was played in front of 2,896 fans Saturday evening at Grayson Stadium. cAlbert Cordero had an outstanding game with 4 hits driving in 6 runs to help Savannah win over Lexington 7-6. In my seven years of watching Sand Gnat baseball, Cordero's performance was one of the best hitting performances I have seen.

Lexington scored one run in the 1st inning. They scored 3 runs in the 3rd-a 2 run home run by 1bJohnny Medrano followed by a solo home run rfBryce Lane gave the Legends a 4-1 lead. Lexington scored a run in the 3rd and a run in the 6th.

Savannah scored a run in the first when Cordero's single drove in a run. In the 6th inning, dhBlake Forsythe tripled and scored on a home run by Cordero over the left center field fence. cfDarrell Ceciliani and rfRafael Fernandez both singled in the 7th and both scored on a single by Cordero. Down 1 run going into the bottom of the 9th, a single by Cordero with the bases loaded scored a run to tie the game at 6-6. 1bJoe Bonfe ground ball single to right field scored the winning run and Bonfe drove in the winning run the night before in the 9th to win the game.

Plenty of hits during the game. Savannah had 13 hits and Lexington had 11 hits. Cordero was 4-for-5 with 6 RBI's, a home run and a run scored. Ceciliani was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Fernandez was 2-for-5 with a double and two runs scored. Forsythe was 2-for-3 with a triple and 2 runs scored.

Starting Savannah pitcher, Ryan Fraser pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowed 6 runs on 10 hits, 4BB, and struck out 3. Luis Rojas went 2 1/3 innings, allowed 1 hit and walked 2. Ronny Morla pitched the 9th inning, did not allow a hit or run, was the winning pitcher and has record of (2-2)

Picture of Albert Cordero hitting his home run in the 6th inning. It was his 3rd home run of the season.

Harris Leads Gnats Past Power 3-1

The final game of the three game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the West Virginia Power was played in front of 2,810 fans Friday evening at Grayson Stadium. lfAlonso Harris drove in all three runs for Savannah to help the Gnats defeat the Power 3-1 and win 2 out of 3 games in the series.

West Virgina scored their only run in the first. Lead off batter, Andrew Maggi, singled, stole second, advanced to third on a throwing error by the catcher, and scored on a ground out.

Savannah scored two runs in the 5th to take a 2-1 lead. 3bAderline Rodriquez walked. 1bJoe Bonfe singled and both runners advanced a base on a ground out. Harris singled to drive in both runs.

In the 8th inning, Harris electrified the fans by leading off the inning with a line drive to left and circled the bases on an inside-the-park home run.

Savannah out hit West Virginia 7-5. Bonfe was 2-for-3 with a stolen base and a run scored. Harris was 2-for-3 with a run scored and 3 RBI's.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher, Yohan Almonte pitched 7 innings, allowed 1 unearned run, 5 hits, 1BB and struck out 4. Gabriel Zavala pitched 2 shutout innings, did not allow a hit, walked 2, and struck out 1. Zavala earned his first save of the year.

Gnats Edge Power 3-2 in the 9th Inning

Game 2 of the 3 game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the West Virginia Power was played in front of 2,301 fans Thursday evening at Grayson Stadium.

Power starter, Jameson Taillon, pitched 5 innings, allowed 2 runs on 4 hits, struck out 6. The 6-6 right-hander Taillon, was the no 2 over all pick of the Pirates in the 2010 draft.

Savannah scored 2 runs in the 4th inning. cBlake Forsythe doubled and scored on a home run by 3bAderline Rodriquez which sailed over the 400 ft. fence in center field.

West Virginia scored 2 runs in the 5th to tie the game. Back to back doubles, a single and a throwing error by the short stop helped the Power score both runs.

The game was tied in the 9th. Forsythe singled and moved to second on a sac bunt. A pass ball allowed Forsythe to advance to third. 1bJoe Bonfe hit a ground ball to third and the third baseman throwing error to first allowed Fotsythe to score the winning run.

For the game, the Gnats out hit the Power 7-5. Forsythe was 3-for-4 with a double and two runs scored.

Starting Savannah Sand Gnat pitcher Angel Cuan pitched 6 innings, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits and striking out 3. Reliever Adam Kolarek (Won, 4-0) was brilliant not allowing a hit or run in 3 innings, 1BB and struck out 3.

Power beats Gnats 4-3 in 12 innings

The first game of the 3 game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the West Virginia Power( Pittsburg Pirates) was played in front of 2,059 fans Wednesday evening at Grayson Stadium. Both starting pitchers were superb. Savannah managed only one hit in 6 innings off Power starter, Zack Von Rosenberg. West Virginia got 1 hit in 5 innings off of Gnat starter, Gonzales Germen.

Power scored the winning run in the 12th inning.

Savannah scored 3 runs in the 8th inning to tie the game. cAlbert Cordero singled followed by a double by 3bAderline Rodriquez. 1b Joe Bonfe drew a walk. Cordero scores from third on a pass ball. A single by 2b Luis Nieves scores Rodriquez. A ground out into a fielders choice by cf Darrell Ceciliani scores Bonfe.

Savannah out hit West Virginia 6-5. lfAlonso Harris was 2-for-4.

Gnat reliever, Michael Hebert, who was just reinstated from the disabled list on July 20th, pitched 2 innings, allowed 3 runs on 2 hits and walked 4. Luis Rojas struck out 2 in 1 inning of work. Hamilton Bennett pitched 3 scoreless innings, allowed 1 hit, 1BB, and struck out 3. Losing pitcher Ronny Morla(1-2) pitched the final inning allowing 1 run on 1 hit.

Grasshoppers Rally In the 9th to Win

The final game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greensboro Grasshoppers was played in front of 897 fans Sunday afternoon at Grayson Stadium. With the score tied 1-1 going into the 9th inning, the Grasshoppers scored twice to beat the Gnats 3-1.

Greensboro scored in the first inning. 2bNoah Perio reached first and advanced to second on a throwing error by the shortstop. A bunt single by rfMarcell Ozuna moved Perio to third and Perio scored on a ground out to second but the relay to first for the double play was not in time.

Savannah scored their only run in the 6th inning on a home run by 3bAderline Rodriquez to tie the score at 1-1. It was his 10th home run of the year which leads the team.

In the 9th, Greensboro received back to back walks followed by back to back singles to score 2 runs.

The Gnats had 6 hits for the game. Rodriquez was 2-for-4. 2bLuis Nieves went 2-for-4.

Starting Savannah pitcher, Ryan Fraser, pitched 7 innings, allowed 1 run on 4hits, 2BB, and struck out 5. Ronny Morla(1-1) took the loss, pitching 2 innings, allowed 2 runs on 2 hits, 2BB, and struck out 2.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Grasshoppers Shut Out Gnats 5-0

The third game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greensboro Grasshoppers was played in front of 1,878 fans Saturday evening at Grayson Stadium. Greensboro had 10 hits for the game with five of them doubles and their pitchers allowed the Sand Gnats 3 hits. Gnats left 11 men on base.

In the second inning, Grasshoppers scored their first run. Three doubles in the 4th inning helped Greensboro to score 2 runs and they added 2 more runs in the 6th inning.

dh Darrell Ceciliani walked twice and was 1-for-2 for Savannah.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher,Yohan Almonte(3-5) lost pitching 5 innings, allowed 3 runs on 7 hits, 3BB, and struck out 6. Guilaume Leduc pitched 2 innings allowed 2 runs(both unearned) on 2 hits and struck out 1. Hamilton Bennett did not allow a hit or run pitching 1 inning and struck out 1. Luis Rojas pitched 1 inning, gave up 1 hit and 1BB.

Gnats Out Hit Grasshoppers to Win 11-4

The second game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greensboro Grasshoppers was played in front of 1,797 fans Friday evening at Grayson Stadium. Savannah banged out a season-high 18 hits to Greensboro's 11 hits to win the game 11-4.

Greensboro scored all of their runs in the 3rd inning with one run on a home run by cfIsaac Galloway.

Savannah scored 3 runs in the 2nd inning on 4 straight singles with rfJoe Bonfe driving in two runs. They scored 2 runs in the 3rd on 4 hits and 3b Aderline Rodriquez driving in two runs with a single. In the 4th inning, Savannah scored 5 runs on 5 hits with Rodriquez driving in two more runs with a single. Gnats added their final run in the 6th inning.

Gnats with multiple hits in the game. Cordero went 5-for-5 with 2 doubles, a triple, 2 RBI's and 4 runs scored. Rodriquez was 3-for-4 with 4 RBI's and a run scored. rfJoe Bonfe was 4-for-5 with 4 RBI's. lfAlonso Harris went 2-for -5 with a double and a run scored.

Winning pitcher for Savannah, Angel Cuan, (7-1) pitched 6 innings, allowed 4 runs on 8 hits, 1BB, struck out 6. Adam Kolarek earned his 2 save of the season pitched 3 shutout innings, gave up 3 hits and struck out 5.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Gnats Rally in the 9th Falls Short

The first game of a four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greensboro Grasshoppers was played in front of 1,940 fans Thursday evening at Grayson Stadium. Down 5-0 going into the bottom of the 9th inning, Savannah scored 4 runs, but came up 1 run short to tie and lost to Greensboro 5-4.

rfRaferal Fernandez led off the bottom of the 9th with a double and scored on a home run to left-center field by cBlake Forsythe. dhAlbert Cordero was hit by a pitch followed by a walk to 3bAderline Rodriquez. A single by lfAlonso Harris scored Cordero, moving Rodriquez to third. A ground out scored Rodriquez.

Savannah had 7 hits for the game. Harris was 2-for-3 with a RBI. cfDarrell Ceciliani was 2-for-5.

Losing pitcher for the Sand Gnats was Gonzales Germen(6-4) who pitched 5 innings, allowed 1 run on 3 hits, struck out 1. Chase Huchingson pitched 3 innings, allowed 3 runs on 2 hits, 1BB and struck out 3. Gabriel Zavala allowed 1 run on 1 hit, 1BB, striking out 2 pitching the 9th inning.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Rome Beats Gnats 5-3 to Avoid Sweep

The final game of the three game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Rome Braves was played in front of 1,362 fans Wednesday evening at Grayson Stadium. The Braves out hit the Gnats 5-4 to win the game 5-3. The Rome win snapped the 11-game winning streak of the Sand Gnats.

Savannah scored in the first when ssWilfredo Tovar walked, stole second and went to third on a wild pitch. A single by cBlake Forsythe scored Tovar. In the 2nd, Savannah scored 1bSam Honeck walked, went to second on a wild pitch, and scored when 2bLuis Nieves doubled. The final Gnat run scored in the 3rd inning. lfRaferal Fernandez singled, stole second and third, and scored on a throwing error by the catcher.

Rome scored their first run in the 6th on a home run by 2bTommy LaStella. In the 7th Rome scored two more runs. dhChris Garcia hit a home run over the 400 ft. center field fence for a 4-3 lead in the 8th inning. The Braves scored another run in the 8th.

Savannah had 4 hits for the game. Nieves was 1-for-3 with a double and a RBI.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher, Taylor Whitenton was masterful pitching 6 innings, allowed 1 run on 2 hits, 2BB, and struck out 5. Luis Rojas (1-5) took the loss, pitching 1 2/3 innings, allowed 4 runs on 3 hits, 3BB, and struck out 2. Guillaume Leduc did not allow a hit or run in the 1 1/3 innings he pitched.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Sand Gnats win 11th Straight against Rome

The second game of the three game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Rome Braves was played in front of 1,271 fans at Grayson Stadium Tuesday evening. Gnats pitching shut out Rome and allowed only 4 hits to win the game 1-0.

Savannah scored their run in the 6th inning, cAlbert Cordero singled, reached second, and scored on a single by 1bSam Honeck.

For the game, Gnats had 6 hits. Honeck was 2-for-3 with a double and RBI.

Starting Savannah pitcher,Ryan Fraser, was stellar pitching 7 innings, allowed 2 hits, 4BB, and struck out 7. Gabriel Zavala allowed 2 hits pitching the 8th inning. Ronny Morla struck out 1 pitching the 9th inning and earned his 7th save of the season. With the win, Fraser is now 6-5.

Gnats Win 10th Straight Game on July 4th

It took 10 innings for the Savannah Sand Gnats to defeat the Rome Braves 6-5 in the first game of the three game series in front of 3,937 fans at Grayson Stadium on July 4th.

Rome scored 4 runs in the 4th inning highlighted by a 3 run home run by cEvan Gattis. The Braves had 12 hits for the game, 2bTommy La Stella had 4 hits and ssMatt Weaver had 3 hits.

Savannah scored 2 runs in the 1st inning. cfDarrell Ceciliani walked, scored on a triple by ssWilfredo Tovar . Tovar scored on a ground out.

In the 4th inning, dhJoe Bonfe tripled and scored on a ground out. Gnats scored 2 in the 5th when 3bAderline Rodriquez doubled to score 2 runs.

Rome tied the game at 5-5 in their 9th inning.

In the 10th inning, Tovar was hit by a pitch. rfRaferal Fernandez laid down a perfect bunt for a single, folowed by a throwing error by the third baseman, allowed Tovar to reach third base and he was tagged out in a run down between third and home. Meanwhile, Fernandez took third base on the run down. With 2 strikes, c Albert Cordero hit a line drive single to center to drive in the winning run.

For the game, Savannah had 7 hits. Cordero was 2-for-4.

Starting Savannah Sand Gnat pitcher, Yohan Almonte, went 6 2/3 innings, allowed 8 hits, 4 runs, 1BB and struck out 2. Hamilton Bennett pitched 2 1/3 innings, allowed 1 run on 4 hits and struck out 2. Winning pitcher, Ronny Morla, (1-0) pitched the 10 inning and struck out 1.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Gnats Shutout GreenJackets Sunday2-0

The final game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets was played Sunday afternoon at Grayson Stadium in front of 1,046 fans. Stellar Sand Gnat pitching shut out Augusta and allowed 5 hits to win the game 2-0.

Savannah scored their first run in the 6th inning. 2bLuis Nieves walked and advanced to second on a wild pitch. cfRaferal Fernandez singled and Nieves advanced to third base. Nieves scored when 3bAderline Rodriquez grounded into a double play. The final Sand Gnat run was scored in the 8th inning. Fernandez walked and advanced to second on a sac bunt. rfJoe Bonfe hit a double to score Fernandez.

Savannah had five hits for the game. Fernandez was 2-for-3 with a run scored. Bonfe was 1-for-2 with a RBI.

Winning pitcher, Taylor Whitenton, (4-1) pitched 6 shutout innings, allowed 4 hits, 1 BB, and struck out 4. Gabriel Zavala, did not allow a hit in 2 shutout innings pitched, striking out 3. Hamilton Bennett,pitched the 9th inning, allowed 1 hit and struck out 1. It was Bennett's Birthday and he earned his 6th save of the season.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Gnats Rally in the 6th to Beat GreenJackets 6-5

The Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets played the 3rd game of the four game series Saturday evening at Grayson Stadium in front of 3,553 fans. Trailing 5-2 going into the bottom of the 6th, the Sand Gnats scored 4 runs to beat Augusta 6-5.

Savannah scored their first run in the 1st inning. cfRaferal Fernandez doubled, moved to third on a ground out and scored on an error by the third baseman. The second run was scored in the 2nd inning. 1bSam Honeck singled reached third and scored on a wild pitch. A big 6th inning saw Savannah score 4 runs on 4 walks and 3 hits. Singles by cAlbert Cordero and Joe Bonfe, with ssWilfredo Tovar hitting a double to drive in 2 runs. With the bases loaded, 2 Sand Gnats received walks to score 2 runs.

Savannah had 11 hits for the game. Tovar was 2-for-5 with 2 RBI's. Cordero was 2-for-4. Honeck was 2-for-3 and 2 runs scored.

Starting Sand Gnat pitcher,Ryan Fraser, pitched 5 innings, allowed 5 runs on 6 hits, walked 4, and struck out 4. Winning pitcher Michael Weldon(2-1) pitched 2 shutout innings and did not allow a hit. Ronny Morla pitched the final 2 innings, allowed 1 hit, walked 2, and struck out 3. Morla earned his 5th save of the season.

Gnats Split Doubleheader With GreenJackets

The Savannah Sand Gnats and the Augusta GreenJackets played a doubleheader Friday at Grayson Stadium to start the second half of the season. The teams split with Savannah winning the first game 2-1 and loosing the second game 4-2.

Game 1:

Savannah had 8 hits for the game and allowed Augusta 1 run on 1 hit for the 7 inning game. Angel Cuan pitched 3 perfect innings to start the game for the Sand Gnats. Adam Kolarek followed allowing 1 run in 2 innings. Hamilton Bennett pitched 2 scoreless innings to earn his 5th save of the season.

Savannah scored in the 4th inning.3bAderline Rodriquez doubled, advanced to third on a ground out and scored on a ground out. In the 5th Sand Gnats scored when cfDarrell Ceciliani singled, stole second, and scored on a single by rfRaferal Fernandez.

Game 2:

Sand Gnats scored 2 runs for the game on 2 hits. They scored 2 runs in the 4th to take a 2-1 lead. Back to back walks to Ceciliani and ssWilfredo Tovar, followed by a sac bunt moved the runners to second and third. Both runners scored on a single by Rodriquez.

In the 5th inning Augusta took the lead on a 3run home run over the left field fence by dhJosh Mazzola

Starting Savannah pitcher, Yohan Almonte (2-4) took the loss pitching 5 innings, allowed 4 runs on 5 hits, walked 3 and struck out 1.

The announced attendance was 2,599.

Drive Shut out Sand Gnats Friday 5-0

I had the opportunity to attend the game between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Greenville Drive in downtown Greenville, S. C. Friday evening. Many fans were late arriving at the game, but attendance was impressive at 5,912 fans in attendance at beautiful Fluor Field.Final score Greenville 5 Savannah 0.

Savannah had numerous chances to score with 9 hits for the game and they left 13 men on base. In the 9th, Gnats loaded the bases with one out, but could not score.

Grenville also had 9 hits for the game and had 2 home runs. cfHenry Ramos solo homer in the 4th made the score 3-0. In the 5th inning, lfBrandon Jacobs hit a 2run home run to make the score 5-0.

Hitting stars for Savannah. lfJoe Bonfe was 3-for-4 with a double. ssWilfrdo Tovar was 2-for-4.

Another strong pitching performance by Chase Huchingson pitching the final three innings for the Sand Gnats. Huchingson did not allow a run, allowed only 1 hit and struck out five.

Sand Gnats Sweep Rome

The Final game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Rome Braves was played Wednesday evening in front of 1,810 fans at Grayson Stadium. Savannah came back to beat Rome 6-5 winning eight games in a row. The Sand Gnats swept back to back home games with Augusta and Rome.

In the 3rd inning, Savannah scored 2 runs to tie the game. ssWilfredo Tovar singled. rfRaferal Fernandez reached first on an error. 3bAderline Rodriquez singled to score Tovar. dhAlbert Cordero hit a sac fly to score Fernandez.

Sand Gnats down 4-2 going into the 5th, scored when cBlake Forsythe singled and reached second on a wild pitch. A double by Cordero scored Forsythe. Savannah tied the game in the 6th inning lfAlonzo Harris singled and scored on a triple by Tovar. Trailing 5-4 going into the 8th inning, Savannah scored twice to take the lead 6-5.

Savannah had 12 hits for the game. Tovar was 3-for-5, 2 runs scored, 2 RBI's. Forsythe was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Rodriquez was 2-for-5 with a RBI.

Starter Greg Peavey pitched 6 innings for the Gnats, allowed 4 runs on 6 hits, and struck out 5. Winning pitcher Adam Kolarek (1-0) pitched 2 innings, allowed 1 run on 3 hits, 1BB and struck out 3. Hamiliton Bennett earned his 4th save of the season, pitched the 9th inning and struck out 2.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Sand Gnats Win Back-to-Back First-Half Titles

With the 2-1 victory over the Rome Braves Tuesday evening, the Savannah Sand Gnats won back-to-back first half championship in the SAL Southern Division. The game was played in front of 1,563 fans at Grayson Stadium.

Savannah scored both of their runs in the 2nd inning. The inning started by back to back singles by lfRaferal Fernandez and 3bAderline Rodriquez. A single by cAlbert Cordero scored Fernandez. Dh Luis Nieves hit into a fielders choice to score Rodriquez.

Rome scored their run in the 6th inning when rfRobert Hefflinger hit a home run(his 3rd) over the right field fence.

The Sand Gnats made good use of their 5 hits for the game. Cordero went 2-for-3 with a RBI.

Winning pitcher, Gonzales Germen, who is now 5-2, pitched 7 innings, allowed 1 run on 5 hits and struck out 4. Josh Edgin pitched the final two innings to earn his 16th save of the season.

Photo courtesy of Ed DeVita, Editor of The Savannah Sports Monthly.

Savannah 2 Rome 1

The second game of the four game series between the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Rome Braves was played in front of 2,448 fans Monday evening at Grayson Stadium. Savannah remains in first place and leads the Greenville Drive by 5.5 games with 6 games left to play in the first half.

The Sand Gnats scored in the 2nd inning. 3bAderline Rodriquez reached first base on a fielders choice. cBlake Forsythe singled to left field and the ball got past the left fielder enabling Rodriquez to score. In the 6th inning, rfCory Vaughn tripled and scored on a single by Rodriquez.

For the game, Savannah had 8 hits. Rodriquez was 2-for-4 with a RBI and a run scored. ssWilfredo Tovar was 1-for-3 and extended his hitting streak to 12 games.

With the win, Ryan Fraser improved his record to 4-4. Fraser pitched 6 shutout innings, allowed 7 hits and struck out 5. Angel Cuan allowed 1 run, gave up 2 hits and struck out 1. Josh Edgin pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning to earn his 15 save of the season.