By Will Flemming
For PotomacLocal.com
Kinston, N.C. –– The Potomac Nationals gutted out a 2-1 victory in extra-innings in Kinston to snap their five-game losing streak and salvage the finale of the four-game set at Grainger Stadium. Steven Souza’s sacrifice fly in the eleventh inning capped off a seesaw win that showcased special efforts by several of Nationals.
The Nationals (11-18) took the lead in the first inning, saw the game tied in the sixth, and escaped two huge jams to set the stage for Souza’s winner.
Justin Bloxom singled in Hood in the opening inning to get the Nats on the board and snap a string of 17 scoreless innings. Danny Rosenbaum took the lead and ran with it. The lefthander kept the Indians off the board until the sixth – and even then, the K-Tribe tied the game amidst some controversy.
After a leadoff single by Tyler Holt, Casey Frawley popped out to first. On a 2-2 pitch, Rosenbaum appeared to strike out Bo Greenwell with a fastball on the outside corner. It was called a ball, Greenwell eventually walked and Paul Menhart was ejected for an argument with home plate umpire John Bacon. Rosenbaum struck out Chase Burnette for the third time (which would have ended the inning) before Jason Smit hit a ground ball through the left side of the infield to score Holt and knot the score.
It would stayed tied through nine innings – though not without some harrowing moments for the Nationals. In the eighth inning Rob Wort, who relieved Rosenbaum after seven outstanding innings, walked the first two batters. Josh Smoker was summoned from the bullpen, and retired the Tribe in order, including a fourth strikeout of Burnette. Smoker retired the Indians in the ninth as well.
Marcos Frias entered in the tenth inning, and got into hot water right away. He walked Holt and hit Frawley to open the frame; Greenwell sacrificed them to second and third. After Burnette was walked to load the bases, Frias struck out Smit and got Doug Pickens to hit a ground ball back to him and end the threat.
The Nats broke the tie in the 11th, with a little help from Smit. After Cutter Dykstra walked and moved to second on Jeff Kobernus’s sacrifice bunt, Destin Hood hit a popup to right field. Smit lost the ball in the sun and dropped it, allowing the Nationals to put two men in scoring position with one out.
Souza then hit a two-strike line drive to medium right; Smit made an excellent throw to the plate but an even better slide from Dykstra broke the tie.
Pat Lehman pitched a perfect 11th for his seventh save, and the Nats avoided the sweep. Frias (2-2) got the win, while Jose Flores (0-3) was saddled with the loss.
Potomac looks to make it two in a row tomorrow night in Winston-Salem. Mitchell Clegg takes the bump for the Nats against Joe Serafin at 7:05 p.m.
Will Flemming is the broadcast director for the Potomac Nationals.
Recent Stories
Seven-month-old Zeke has been growing up in his foster home, eagerly awaiting a family to call his own.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in style with Virginia’s best street brass band, Elby Brass! Reclaim Arcade is hosting a night of revelry featuring masks, beads, and all your favorite retro arcade games.
The February 19, 2025, Prince William County School Board meeting devolved into a shouting match between board members Loree Williams of Woodbridge and Erica Tredinnick of Brentsville. Williams refused to acknowledge Tredinnick as a black woman as part of her Black History Month statement.
In December 2024, Northeastern Supply, a plumbing, HVAC, PVF, and water system supplies distributor, opened its new location at 9751 Center Street in the former Southern States feed store building.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
