Red-hot Rock Cats beat Squirrels, 1-0

NEW BRITAIN, May 1 – The Rock Cats continue to play red-hot baseball. First baseman Will Swanner hit a solo home run in the fifth inning to lead New Britain to a 1-0 victory over Richmond Friday night at New Britain Stadium. The Rock Cats, who are 12-2 in their last 14 games, now own the best record in the Eastern League at 14-7. 

Swanner smashed a solo home run off Giants’ prospect Kyle Crick in the 5th inning for the only run of the game. New Britain starter Ryan Carpenter combined with relievers Nelson Gonzalez and Austin House on the shutout win.  Carpenter is 2-0 at home and has not allowed a run in 14 innings at New Britain Stadium. House earned his seventh save of the year, a league best.

The Flying Squirrels, who have lost a franchise record 13 straight games, had some opportunities to score and left 10 men on base, while going 0 for 9 with runners in scoring position. 

New Britain’s three-game series with Richmond continues with a game tonight at 6:35 p.m. at New Britain Stadium. Shane Carle will try to become the first pitcher in Rock Cats history to win his first five starts.  He will be opposed by Matt Lujan.