Dogs fall to Gators

On a Sunday afternoon that threatened rain, but failed to produce any significant precipitation, the Portland Sea Dogs lost to the Norwich Navigators 2-0. It looked to be a Mr. Hyde appearance for Kason Gabbard, as the first three batters reached and the Gators scored two unearned runs before Portland had a chance to bat. Gabbard settled down however, allowing just three more hits over the next five innings before giving way to the bullpen. It wasn't enough, however, as Portland bats couldn't master Norwich starter Brian Mazone, who allowed just three hits and a walk in eight innings. Portland next hosts the Bingamton Mets for five games over the next three days as they make up part of series that was rained out last May.

Scorer's Notes:

• Mazone was far from overpowering with a fastball that topped out in the upper 90's. He changed locations and kept Portland batters off balance with a variety of offspeed stuff. He struck out six batters, induced two DP's, picked off a base runner, and otherwise got the Sea Dogs hitters to hit 'em where they were.
• Brian Wilson recorded his second save of the series. He wasn't as overpowering as he was on Friday, when he struck out all three batters he faced. This afternoon he recorded one strikeout and consistently threw his heater at 93 as opposed to the 97 mph velocity that we saw on Friday.
• Hanley Ramirez was the offense for the Sea Dogs as he registered a double and a walk in his three plate appearances. Ramirez was also the only runner left on base for Portland in the entire game.
• Norwich has to be the small-ballingist team in the league. The Navigators never met a sacrifice opportunity or stolen base chance that they didn't like. They don't appear to have a ton of quality bats in the lineup, so they are doing what it takes. It's old school, but it is a fun style to watch.