Mariners 6 - Tories 0

On Tuesday night in Essex, the Mariners squeaked out a 6-0 win over the Topsfield Tories by pushing 5 runs across in the 5th inning and 1 more in the 6th inning. The win puts the Mariners at 4-0 on the young season, and drops the Tories to 1-5.

Brandon Bell, in his first start in 5 years, picked up the win for the Mariners going 5 strong innings, surrendering only 4 hits with 2 walks, while striking out 8. Ryan Marques pitched the final 2 innings to record his second save in as many appearances, striking out 2. Allen Hatfield pitched well for the Tories going 5 innings, surrendering 4 earned runs, 5 strikeouts, 7 hits, and 2 walks.

The Mariners were led at the plate by Bryan Lafata (3-4 with 2 doubles and a 3 run homer), Rory Gentile (2-3 with a run scored and a triple), and Joe Orlando (2-4 with a run scored and rbi). Rookie Colin Canny also recorded his first career ITL base hit, with a double in the 6th inning. At the plate for the Tories, Hatfield and Andy Heath led the way with 2 hits a piece.

The Mariners play a make up of an earlier rainout tonight (Wed) vs. Ipswich in Essex, then Topsfield will host the Mariners this Friday night.