May 11, 2019 at 7:00 AM
Cup of Coffee: Gonzalez deals, Ockimey goes deep
5/11 Cup of Coffee: All four teams lost last night, but Daniel Gonzalez (pictured, right) and Jarren Duran continued their terrific seasons. Josh Ockimey and Bryce Brentz belted home runs while Yorvin Pantoja turned in a terrific relief outing.
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Chandler Shepherd's rough season continued, as he gave up three home runs in five innings to fall to 0-5 on the year. Domingo Tapia also fell victim to the long ball, allowing two in his lone inning of work. Travis Lakins and Bobby Poyner were bright spots, each tossing a scoreless frame with one strikeout. Bryce Brentz and Josh Ockimey each blasted solo shots and walked, while Rusney Castillo and Sam Travis each went 2 for 5. Juan Centeno also had a good night with three knocks to boost his average to .297.
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Darwinzon Hernandez struggled to find the plate, walking six in just three innings on his way to a loss. He only gave up one hit, but walks continue to be an issue for the lefty. Dominic LoBrutto was solid out of the bullpen, throwing three scoreless innings with three strikeouts. Joey Curletta had the only multi-hit effort for Portland, going 2 for 4. Brett Netzer and Cody Asche each collected doubles.
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The offense went silent with just five singles, but Jarren Duran was able to stay hot with two hits to raise his average to .398. Daniel Gonzalez turned in a gem, firing seven scoreless innings with four strikeouts and allowing just four hits and a walk. Andrew Politi took the loss in relief, surrendering a run in the bottom of the eighth.
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The Drive racked up 10 hits, but none went for extra bases. Triston Casas went 1 for 4 and drove in his 23rd run of the year, while Devlin Granberg and Alan Marrero each picked up two hits. Yasel Santana allowed six runs in 2 2/3 innings, but only one of them was earned. Yorvin Pantoja was terrific in relief, striking out six without a walk in 2 1/3 innings. Korby Batesole also tossed a scoreless frame.
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Player of the Night: Daniel Gonzalez had his fifth consecutive start going at least five innings and allowing two or fewer runs. In his longest outing of the year (seven innings), Gonzalez did not allow a run to lower his 2019 ERA to 2.50. The 23-year old righty was an international free agent signing in 2012.
Photo Credit: Daniel Gonzalez by Kelly O'Connor