7-11-02

Raleigh, N.C. - With the weather not as pleasant as hoped for, the 2002 Coastal Plain League All-Star Game got underway right on time Wednesday night at J.P. Riddle Stadium, home of the Fayetteville SwampDogs. In a well played game, the North All-Stars defeated the South All-Stars 6-1 in a game that went eight innings due to the weather.

The North All-Stars jumped out to an early 1-0 lead after Marshall Hubbard connected on a shot good enough for a double and a RBI, bringing home Michael Reese. The lead, however, would not hold long, as Tolby Meyer sent the ball flying for a homerun and making it a 1-1 tie after one.

From then on, the two teams battled the rain as well as each other, but in the end it was the North that got the best of the South, piling on two runs in the fifth and another three in the top of the eighth. Meyer, a member of the Gastonia Grizzlies, was named the Diamond Defensive Player of the Game, while Petersburg's Matt Cucurullo received both the Mizuno Offensive Player of the Game and Home Depot MVP honors.

The Coastal Plain League is a collegiate summer baseball league, with rosters comprised of outstanding college players from across the country, seeking to sharpen their skills while showcasing their talents for pro scouts. The league uses wooden bats exclusively, giving hitters a head start on their professional careers, while also providing fans with a more traditional sounding game. Each club provides a great night of affordable family entertainment at the ballpark. Tickets are inexpensive, and full lines of concessions and souveniers are offered, along with minor league-style promotions, including lucky signature giveaways, on-field contests, and player appearances.

Contact:
Justin Sellers
Media Relations Director
919-852-1960