2026-07-04

Saugerties Stallions Blank Utica Blue Sox 3-0 Behind Early Second-Inning Surge

The Saugerties Stallions capitalized on a decisive second inning and a strong pitching performance to shut out the Utica Blue Sox, 3-0, in a brief two-inning contest on July 4 at Cantine Field.

All three runs for Saugerties came in the bottom of the second, as timely hitting and disciplined at-bats allowed the Stallions to take control and hold off Utica in a game that saw both teams limited to a combined five hits.

Second Inning Sparks Saugerties

After a scoreless opening frame, the Stallions broke through in the bottom of the second. Nick Croce drew a walk to start the rally, and Steven Ramirez followed with a single, putting runners on base with no outs. Aiden Schmidt worked a walk to load the bases, setting the stage for Mike Cuello.

Cuello delivered the game’s biggest hit, singling to left field and driving in both Croce and Ramirez to give Saugerties a 2-0 lead. The Stallions kept the pressure on as Aiden Schmidt advanced to second on the play and Cuello moved up to third. Jack Beyl then singled to left center, scoring Schmidt and extending the lead to 3-0.

That three-run outburst proved to be all the offense Saugerties would need, as Utica was unable to mount a response in their half of the second.

Pitching and Defense Seal the Shutout

Saugerties starter Nicholas Ballard was efficient and effective, tossing two scoreless innings and allowing just one hit. Ballard faced the minimum in the first and worked around a single in the second, finishing his outing with no walks and no strikeouts on 24 pitches.

Utica’s lone hit came off the bat of Connor Jones, who singled in his only plate appearance. The Blue Sox were otherwise stymied at the plate, with Saugerties’ defense playing error-free baseball behind Ballard.

On the mound for Utica, Vinny Sangataldo was tagged for all three runs in his 1.2 innings of work. Sangataldo gave up four hits and issued two walks, striking out one before being lifted after the Stallions’ second-inning rally.

Key Performances

  • Mike Cuello provided the offensive highlight for Saugerties, going 1-for-1 with a two-run single in the second inning.
  • Jack Beyl added a run-scoring single, finishing 1-for-1 with an RBI.
  • Steven Ramirez reached base and scored, contributing a single to the Stallions’ four-hit attack.
  • Aiden Schmidt and Nick Croce each drew walks and came around to score in the pivotal second inning.
  • Nicholas Ballard earned the win with two shutout innings, allowing just one hit and no walks.

For Utica, Connor Jones was the only Blue Sox batter to record a hit, as the team was limited to just one baserunner and was unable to capitalize.

Game Summary

The Stallions’ three-run second inning, highlighted by clutch hitting from Mike Cuello and Jack Beyl, proved decisive in a game dominated by pitching and defense. Saugerties played error-free baseball and got a strong start from Nicholas Ballard, while Utica’s offense was held in check throughout the brief contest.

With the win, Saugerties Stallions secured a 3-0 shutout at home, while the Utica Blue Sox were unable to break through against Ballard and the Stallions’ defense.