By Will Flemming
For PotomacLocal.com
Woodbridge, Va. –– Sammy Solis got an avalanche of run support in his Carolina League debut.
Potomac erupted for 12 runs, eight of which came in a decisive second inning and helped lead the lefthander to a victory in his first start with the P-Nats. J.P. Ramirez capped an incredible home stand with his first career grand slam that helped earn the Nats their second straight series win to open the season’s second half.
Though Solis’s debut turned into a smooth one, that was not a given early. Battling a tight strike one, Solis walked one and yielded two hits as the Blue Rocks took a 1-0 lead in the first inning. But the Nationals bats were quick to the rescue.
In the bottom half of the first, Francisco Soriano walked to open the inning and moved to third on Jeff Kobernus’s double. Destin Hood’s RBI groundout tied the game, and Justin Bloxom’s sacrifice fly to left pushed the Nationals to a lead they would never relinquish.
After Solis settled in and retired the Rocks in order in the second (he would face just two more than the minimum from the second to the fifth inning), Potomac’s offense awakened.
J.P. Ramirez grounded out to open the inning. Little did he know he would get another chance in the same frame. Sandy Leon hit his first homer of the season, a massive blast to right that began a string of ten straight hitters that would reach base. Hood struck again with a two-run double that scored Kobernus and Eury Perez, who was on base three times. After Bloxom walked and Steven Souza reached on an error by third baseman John Whittleman, Ramirez got his second shot of the inning – and he made the most of it. A titanic blast to right field put Potomac in front by nine runs and put the game away.
Solis encountered a little trouble in the sixth. Whittleman finished off a big series with his second homer of the set, a deep blast to right. Two more singles were followed by an RBI groundout from Jose Bonilla that made it 12-3; the Nationals had scored indivudual runs on a Hood grounder (he drove in four on the day) and a throwing error by Brendan Lafferty in the fourth.
With the win, the Nationals move to 7-6 in the half as they head to Frederick for a three-game set. Wednesday night, Paul Demny takes the mound against Nich Haughian at 7 p.m.
Will Flemming is the Broadcast Director for the Potomac Nationals.
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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:
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