Wilmington, Del. — After a rocky first inning, Paul Demny settled in and dominated the Wilmington Blue Rocks. He struck out a career high ten and allowed just two hits after a two-run first, as the Potomac Nationals survived a rocky ninth to win 7-5 at Frawley Stadium on Thursday afternoon.
Demny, coming off two disastrous road starts, appeared rattled early. Three straight one-out hits in the first inning scored a pair and put the Blue Rocks in front 2-0. But Demny got the next two outs and was outstanding from then on. He retired nine straight hitters and allowed only two more baserunners through seven innings and earned his seventh win as the Nationals moved to 20-13 in the second half, nine games ahead of Wilmington in the second half standings.
With their record at 49-53 overall, the Nationals also moved to four games under .500 for the first time since the first day of May.
The Nationals seized the lead back for Demny in the top of the second. Consecutive singles by Steven Souza and J.R. Higley set the table for an inning, but Cutter Dykstra’s double play appeared to stem the tide. However, Eury Perez bunted for a single to score Souza and cut the lead in half. Francisco Soriano rocked the very next pitch over the left field wall for his fifth home run and a 3-2 Potomac lead.
The P-Nats added four runs in the last three innings – and would end up needing them. Dykstra hit his first homer of the season in the seventh; Souza crushed a two-run double in the eighth and Destin Hood smacked a run-scoring double in the top of the ninth to make it 7-2 Potomac.
Neil Holland pitched a scoreless eighth, but allowed a two-out, three-run homer to Julio Rodriguez in the ninth that trimmed the lead to two at 7-5. Rob Wort was brought on to get the last out; he retired Gerard Hall to earn his third save.
The Nationals took three of four from Wilmington and four of seven on the road trip.
Potomac welcomes the first-half champion Frederick Keys to Woodbridge for a three-game series beginning Friday night at 7:05. Adam Olbrychowski takes the mound the Nats against Bobby Bundy.
-Will Flemming
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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:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
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