A Rocky Opening for Duke
The Blue Devils entered Jack Coombs Field with high hopes, but the opening innings quickly turned sour. Wake Forest struck first, plating three runs in the top of the fourth to take a 4‑0 lead, a cushion that would prove decisive.
Strands of Hope in the Fourth
Duke answered in the bottom of the fourth, chipping away with two runs. The rally was sparked by Matthew Strand’s team‑leading 13th home run, a solo shot that ignited the crowd, followed by an RBI single from Michael DiMartini that narrowed the gap.
Deacons Extend the Lead
Wake Forest refused to relent. An additional run in the sixth stretched the advantage, and later innings saw the Demon Deacons add another tally, capped by a ninth‑inning homer that sealed a 7‑2 victory. Aidan Weaver took the loss, while Troy Dressler earned the win for the visitors.
Senior Day and the Road Ahead
The series will wrap up on Saturday at 3 p.m., coinciding with a pregame Senior Day ceremony honoring Duke’s graduating players. Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase a special pack of trading cards featuring the seniors and other graduates, adding a collectible twist to the final contest.