Despite a 13-hit performance, the Charleston RiverDogs fell 10-4 to the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers in front 3,725 fans at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.
Five RiverDogs notched multi-hit performances, including Dean Moss who finished the night 3-for-4 with two runs batted in.
Kannapolis opened the scoring in the first inning before adding three runs in the third. Steven Lancia and Braden Holcomb each delivered RBI doubles, while Jaden Fauske drew a bases-loaded walk to give the Cannon Ballers a 4-1 lead.
Charleston scored its first run in the second when Brady Marget crossed the plate on a fielder’s choice from Moss.
The Cannon Ballers broke the game open with a six-run fourth inning. Holcomb drove in two with a double, Clay Burdette added a two-run triple, and Crew McChesney and Billy Carlson followed with RBI singles to extend the lead to 10-1.
The RiverDogs added runs in the fourth, seventh and eighth innings, including an Andreimi Antunez RBI single that capped scoring at 10-4.
With the loss, the RiverDogs fell to 57-46 and 21-17 in the second half, while Kannapolis moved to 54-50, and 22-17 in the second half. The two return to the Joe on Wednesday night for game two of the series. First pitch is slated for 7:05 p.m. with coverage beginning at 6:50 on the RiverDogs Broadcast Network.
Let Freedom Bark
After clinching the Carolina League South first half title, the RiverDogs have secured a spot in the 2026 postseason, presented by Nucor Steel Berkeley. The best-of-three Division Series begins on Tuesday, September 8. Thanks to their first-half division title, the RiverDogs are guaranteed to host Game 2, and, if necessary, Game 3, at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park on September 10 and 11.
Season Ticket Holders can renew their 2026 package for 2027, to receive complimentary tickets to all home postseason games. All other fans can purchase an exclusive package that includes a ticket to all home playoff games and a guaranteed t-shirt for a limited time. Tickets are available here.
Ballpark Fun:
The Joe was buzzing all night for Wellness Night, with fun activities and contests that kept fans moving while putting a spotlight on fitness, mental health, and healthy living. Community partners were set up around the ballpark, giving fans the chance to learn something new while still enjoying a night at the game.
It wouldn't be a Wednesday without one of the best deals in baseball. Fans loaded up on 50-cent hot dogs during Wiener Wednesday, making for a packed concourse and plenty of full stomachs. Between the wellness-themed fun, Charleston County Public Library Night, and another lively crowd, it was a great way to spend a summer evening at The Joe.