Jack Sundberg knocked in the only run of the game with two outs in the bottom of the eighth inning and the fans were treated to stellar pitching performances by both teams on Thursday night at Palisades Credit Union Park as the New York Boulders defeated the Sussex County Miners by a score of 1-0. 

Orsen Josephina toed the rubber for the Boulders and picked up right where he left off in his previous outing. Making just his second start of the season, the young righthander stifled one of the best offenses in the Frontier League. He pitched 6 1/3 innings, struck out a career high nine batters, and gave up three hits and three walks without allowing a single run. The quality start lowered his season ERA to a mere 0.49. 

For the Miners, their ace Tyler Alexander was every bit as advertised. In his first start since June 4th due to a stint on the Injured List, he showed no signs of rust. He topped Josephina by striking out 10 Boulders in eight innings of work, allowed just one run on six hits, and registered a complete game despite taking the loss. 

The Boulders’ bats were dormant for much of the game, managing to get a runner in scoring position for the first time in the bottom of the seventh. Although they were unable to convert that opportunity, they were able to cash in the following inning by playing small ball. 

In the bottom of the eighth, Ryan Ramiz lead off the inning with an opposite field single to left. Milton Smith did his job and advanced Ramiz to second on a sacrifice bunt. Gian Martinelli had a chance to be the hero in his Boulders’ debut, but unfortunately struck out swinging, leaving the job to Sundberg. Ramiz got to third on a wild pitch, setting the scene for Sundberg’s check swing dribbler to the shortstop that he beat out to drive in the winning run. 

James Mulry earned the win coming on in relief. He replaced Josephina and lasted 1 2/3 innings without allowing a baserunner and striking out two. 

The ninth inning brought some late drama. With Tanner Kiest on for the save, Audy Ciriaco reached on an error by Zach Penprase. Although Ciriaco made it to third on a stolen base and a wild pitch, Kiest was able to strike out the side to seal the win and the sweep. 

The Boulders will look to extend their winning streak to four tomorrow night at home as they welcome the New Jersey Jackals for a three-game set.