June 9, 2025

Greenville Drive Secures Series Victory Over Rome Emperors

News Summary

The Greenville Drive clinched a strong 7-2 win against the Rome Emperors, finishing the series 5-1. Key players included Franklin Arias with a two-run homer and Eduardo Rivera, who struck out eight batters. The Drive exhibited dominant batten performance and capitalized on defensive errors by the Emperors, improving their record to 30-27. Next, they face the Hudson Valley Renegades as they aim to build on their current momentum.

Greenville – The Greenville Drive clinched a decisive 7-2 victory over the Rome Emperors on Sunday afternoon, securing a 5-1 series win in their six-game matchup at Fluor Field. The success propels the Drive’s record to 30-27, surpassing the .500 mark by three games, while the Emperors fall to 27-30.

Key performances included a standout game from Franklin Arias, who went 2-for-5, highlighted by a two-run home run in the sixth inning. Eduardo Rivera also shined on the mound, striking out eight batters over 5 2/3 innings, allowing just one run and posting a record of 3-1 for the season.

The Drive established momentum in the third inning, scoring four runs. The inning began with Yophery Rodriguez and Nelly Taylor reaching base, setting the stage for Antonio Anderson’s single and Nazzan Zanetello’s two-run RBI hit to left. A misplay by Rome’s left fielder, Jace Grady, further aided the Drive by allowing an additional run to score. Brooks Brannon capped off the rally with a run brought home on a mishandled fielder’s choice by shortstop Lizandro Espinoza.

Following a solo home run by Rome’s E.J. Exposito in the sixth, the Drive quickly responded. Brannon initiated the inning with a single, followed by a double from Freili Encarnacion. Justin Riemer hit a sacrifice fly shortly after, bringing Brannon home. Arias then extended the lead significantly by launching a two-run blast off Rome reliever Samuel Strickland, leading to a commanding 7-1 edge for Greenville.

Although Exposito was the lone standout for Rome, batting 3-for-4 and accounting for both of Rome’s runs, the Emperors struggled overall. A total of 12 batters struck out during the game, contributing to top-line numbers for the Drive, which out-hit Rome 10-7. Greenville was also able to capitalize on Rome’s defensive lapses, taking advantage of three errors committed by the Emperors.

Rivera’s stellar pitching performance included allowing only six hits and issuing just one walk. Relievers Erik Rivera and Darvin Garcia worked together to cover 3 1/3 innings, ensuring that the Drive maintained control throughout the match. Rivera’s efforts have made him a key player in a series where the Drive dominated, achieving a stunning run differential of 33-14 against Rome over the six games.

Looking ahead, the Greenville Drive will continue their season as they prepare to face the Hudson Valley Renegades for another six-game series starting Tuesday. With momentum on their side following this weekend’s success, the Drive aim to build upon their current record and further establish themselves in the league standings.

As the series against Rome concludes, the Drive will look to maintain their form, focusing on pitching and defense as they enter their next challenge.