The Charleston RiverDogs led 5-0 early on August 4, but a late surge by the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers turned the game into a 7-5 defeat at Riley Park.
Key moments in the early innings
Cooper Flemming opened the scoring with an RBI single in the bottom of the first, and Taitn Gray extended the lead with a sacrifice fly in the second. Tom Poole doubled to center in the fourth, driving in two more runs, while Dean Moss added an RBI single in the sixth to keep the pressure on.
Reliever Ethan Storm delivered four shutout innings out of the bullpen, navigating two bases‑loaded jams without allowing a run and preserving the early advantage.
The comeback
Kannapolis chipped away with two runs in the seventh and eighth innings, narrowing the gap before Alexander Albertus launched a three‑run homer in the ninth to seize the lead.
JD Gonzalez finished the night 3‑for‑3 with three stolen bases, while Dean Moss went 1‑for‑3 with a walk, an RBI and two steals, underscoring the offensive contributions from both sides.
Beyond the diamond, the evening featured a lively puppy parade of German Shepherds, a salute to active‑duty military members and a series of wellness‑themed promotions branded as ‘Wellness Wednesday.’
The RiverDogs also offered 2‑for‑1 tickets and handed out wellness prizes, setting the stage for a mid‑week doubleheader on Wednesday night that will include special events such as ‘Wicked Weed Wiener Wednesday’ and ‘Thirsty Thursday.’