The Staten Island FerryHawks celebrated their Italian heritage with a dominant performance on the field, shutting out the Lancaster Barnstormers 5-0 on Saturday night at the Staten Island University Hospital Community Park. The game was attended by 2,500 fans, who enjoyed a night of Italian culture, music, and food.
FerryHawks Pitching Staff Shines
The FerryHawks pitching staff was in top form, as they combined to throw a four-hit shutout against the Barnstormers. Starter Alexis Candelario earned his third win of the season, tossing six scoreless innings with seven strikeouts and only two walks. He lowered his ERA to 2.70, the second-best in the Atlantic League.
The bullpen was equally impressive, as Vin Aiello, Pedro Payano, and Ryan Williamson each pitched a perfect inning of relief, striking out five batters in total. The FerryHawks pitchers did not allow a single Lancaster runner to reach second base, and retired the last 12 batters in order.
FerryHawks Offense Breaks Out
The FerryHawks offense broke out of a slump, scoring five runs on 10 hits and four walks. They scored two runs in the first inning, thanks to an RBI double by Kevin Krause and an RBI single by Roldani Baldwin. They added another run in the third inning, when Jack Elliot hit a solo home run, his seventh of the season.
The FerryHawks scored their final two runs in the seventh inning, on a sacrifice fly by Jeff Wehler and an RBI single by Drew Stankiewicz. The FerryHawks had at least one hit in every inning except the eighth, and had four extra-base hits in total.
FerryHawks Celebrate Italian Heritage
The FerryHawks celebrated their Italian heritage with a special night of festivities at the ballpark. The game was sponsored by the Italian Cultural Foundation of Staten Island, which provided free tickets to its members and guests. The foundation also hosted a pre-game ceremony, honoring several prominent Italian-Americans from Staten Island.
The game featured Italian music, food, and entertainment throughout the night. The FerryHawks wore special jerseys with the colors of the Italian flag, which were auctioned off after the game to benefit the foundation. The fans also enjoyed a post-game fireworks show, sponsored by Villa Monte Pizzeria.
FerryHawks Take Series Lead
The FerryHawks improved their record to 18-15 with the win, taking a 2-1 series lead over the Barnstormers. They are now tied for second place in the North Division with the Long Island Ducks, trailing the Somerset Patriots by two games.
The FerryHawks will look to clinch the series win on Sunday afternoon, when they face the Barnstormers in the finale of their four-game set. The game will start at 1:05 p.m., and will feature a Marvel Super Hero Day promotion. Fans can meet their favorite Marvel characters and receive a free comic boo