Portland, Maine - Brendan Rodgers broke a 3-3 tie with a two-run homer in the eighth and the Hartford Yard Goats (24-20) won the series opener over the Sea Dogs (15-27) 5-3 on Tuesday night at Hadlock Field.
Portland, Maine - Brendan Rodgers broke a 3-3 tie with a two-run homer in the eighth and the Hartford Yard Goats (24-20) won the series opener over the Sea Dogs (15-27) 5-3 on Tuesday night at Hadlock Field.
Yonathan Daza led off the eighth with a single against Josh Taylor (L, 0-1) before Rodgers left the yard with his 10th homer of the season.
Hartford jumped out to an early lead with a three-run third inning, although just one run was earned thanks to two Portland errors in the frame.
The Sea Dogs got on the board on a solo homer by Luke Tendler in the fifth off of Jesus Tinoco.
Portland tied the game in the seventh on an RBI fielder's choice by Jeremy Rivera and a bases-loaded walk by Chad De La Guerra.
Both starters were sharp and received no decision. Kyle Hart went seven innings and allowed three runs (one earned) on six hits, he struck out five. Tinoco allowed one run on four hits over five innings while fanning seven.
Sean Nolin (W, 1-0) earned the victory despite allowing an inherited runner to score and tie the game. Nolin was making his first professional appearance since 2015.
Matt Pierpont picked up his league-leading 12th save of the season by pitching a scoreless ninth.
Portland and Hartford continue their three-game series on Wednesday night at Hadlock Field. Lefty Matt Kent (2-1, 2.16) is on the mound for the Sea Dogs. Hartford counters with Peter Lambert (2-1, 2.49). First pitch is scheduled for 6:00 PM. Radio coverage on the U.S. Cellular Sea Dogs Radio Network begins at 5:45 PM. MiLBTV coverage starts at 5:55 PM.
Tuesday is High School Night of Champions and an appearance by WWE Superstar Fandango. Tickets can be purchased at seadogs.com or 207-879-9500.
