Bullpen Game: Rochester Uses Eight Pitchers to Defeat Syracuse, 3-1

By Christopher Drummond

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The Rochester Red Wings leaned on a dominant pitching performance from eight different pitchers to defeat the Syracuse Mets, 3-1, on Saturday night, clinching their fourth win of the six-game series and another series victory.

Rochester's bullpen-by-committee approach continued the club's dominant stretch on the mound. The Red Wings have surrendered just 11 runs through the first five games of the series. Syracuse scored five runs in one game but has managed only six runs combined in the other four contests.

The Red Wings have outscored the Mets 25-11 during the series.

Christian Franklin continued his hot streak at the plate, collecting two hits and driving in two runs to lead Rochester's offense.

Landlord Pineda also turned in an impressive performance in just his fourth Triple-A game, recording a team-high three hits, including two doubles and a triple. He drove in Rochester's other run while continuing to make an immediate impact since his promotion.

The Mets' lone run came on Hayden Senger's ninth home run of the season. Outside of the solo blast, Rochester's pitching staff shut down Syracuse's offense, stranding nine Mets baserunners to preserve the victory.

Red Wings manager Matthew LeCroy credited his pitching staff for executing the bullpen game.

"The bullpen did an excellent job," LeCroy said. "Once we grabbed the lead, they were able to hold on to it. I'm really proud of everyone who came out on the mound. Offensively, we did just enough to get the win."

Pineda, speaking through a translator, reflected on his strong performance and his adjustment to Triple-A baseball.

"I'm always focused on what I need to do," Pineda said. "God is the one who has helped me get here, along with a lot of other people. I'm thankful everything worked out today. Having the experience in this clubhouse has been huge for me. I'm learning from all the guys, and they've been a huge help in my development as a player."

The Red Wings will wrap up the six-game homestand Sunday afternoon. First pitch for the series finale against Syracuse is scheduled for 1:05 p.m.