Despite holding a late lead, the Charleston RiverDogs allowed seven unanswered runs in a 7-5 loss to the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on Tuesday night in front 4,829 fans at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.
Charleston opened scoring in the bottom of the first when Cooper Flemming lined an RBI single to right. Taitn Gray followed with a sacrifice fly out left that extended the lead to 2-0.
Tom Poole doubled the lead in the bottom of the fourth, after demolishing a two-run shot to center to make it 4-0.
Charleston added on one more in the bottom of the sixth after Dean Moss rolled an RBI single to center.
Ethan Storm was strong in bulk relief, delivering four shutout innings in bulk relief. In the process, he escaped two bases-loaded jams.
Kannapolis began to chip away, scoring two runs in each of the seventh and eighth innings before Alexander Albertus blasted a three-run homer in the ninth to flip the score to 7-5 Cannon Ballers.
With the loss, the RiverDogs fell to 57-45 and 21-16 in the second half, while Kannapolis moved to 53-50, and 21-17 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:
Dogs and baseball are always a good combination, and Dog Day Tuesday brought plenty of both to The Joe. German Shepherds were the featured breed for the night's puppy parade, but dogs of all kinds filled the ballpark alongside their owners. From pup cups to the "Good Boy or Girl of the Night" contest, there was no shortage of fun for the four-legged fans.
The RiverDogs also recognized local military members, veterans, and their families during Military Appreciation Night. Military tributes and recognitions took place throughout the game as the RiverDogs thanked those who have served. With a great crowd taking advantage of 2-for-1 tickets, it was another fun night at the ballpark for fans of all ages.