The Long Island Ducks started off the first game of a three game set with their Ferry Cup rivals, the Bridgeport Bluefish, with a statement. They want revenge for their three game sweep in Bridgeport. For a 289th time in Atlantic League history, these two teams squared off. This meeting makes it the most for the Ducks against any other opponent. One Duck player who want to make a statement against his former team is outfielder Prentice Redman. The Ducks acquired Redman on May 2 from the Bluefish.
“From the other side, we wanted to destroy the Ducks every time” said Redman. “But on this side, I want to destroy the Fish even more. It’s been a good rivalry.”
On May 12, The Ducks took the first game of the series at Bethpage Ballpark with an impressive 5-2 win. It was the fourth game of 27 meetings between these two rivals in 2015. Hitting coach and outfielder Lew Ford put up four hits and four RBI in the opener. He was just a triple shy of the cycle. Ducks ace John Brownell took the mound and tossed seven innings, allowing two runs on six hits and one walk. Brownell struck out four batters and earned his third win of the year. Ducks closer Ryan Kussmaul picked up his sixth save of the season to cap off the evening.
“I played against Lew before, but he’s a good guy” said Redman. “He and Brownie carried us tonight. They did most of the hitting at the end of the day and we appreciate it.”
Crossing over at first felt different for Redman. Now he’s enjoying the opportunity to play on the other side of the rivalry. After playing for the Bluefish for the past five seasons, Redman is happy to call Long Island his new home.
“I like it a lot” said Redman. “I can’t complain. It was different at first but now I don’t mind it at all.
During his time in Bridgeport, he played in 426 games. The former big leaguer also was a key cog in the Fish’s offense. He compiled a .271 batting average, 55 home runs, 238 RBI, 220 runs and 109 doubles. His doubles ranked him second in Bluefish history. The Alabama native’s best year was in 2012 where he was named an All-Star. During that season, he batted .282 with 21 homers and 82 RBI in 131 games.
With the Ducks, The former big leaguer is batting .263 with a home run, four RBI, eight runs, a double, and 10 hits in 10 games this season. With an offense featuring Dan Lyons, Cody Puckett, Bryan Sabatella, and Reegie Corona, Redman will have plenty of offensive support to back him up in the lineup.
Being familiar and playing against Ford has also been a big help in his game so far this year. Redman splits time in the outfield and designated hitter role with Ford. These two make up two thirds of the top of the Ducks lineup behind leadoff man Sabatella.
Another factor in Redman’s game is trying to stay consistent and get on base. The former Mets player is also trying to avoid striking out often. So far, Redman wants to improve in every aspect of his game as the season goes on.
“I want to improve in pretty much everything” said Redman. “I wanna get my legs back healthy and stronger and just contribute.”
At the end of the day, Redman expects the 10-8 Ducks to make the playoffs and win a third championship in four years. He is willing to help the Flock get back to the postseason and bring the championship back to Long Island. The Bluefish and Ducks will square off two more times in Long Island this week. It’s always a battle when these two teams get together as they continue to fight for bragging rights in the Ferry Cup Series.
