A Nail‑Biter at the Ballpark
Rowan County erupted for a 13‑12 victory over Wilmington Post 10 Red in the opening game of a doubleheader, rallying from a 4‑1 hole to steal a win that hinged on a six‑run fourth inning and a four‑run sixth.
Luke Ponczka was the catalyst, delivering three hits at the plate and closing out the bottom of the fifth with the score knotted at 9‑all before the locals pulled ahead. His performance anchored a pitching staff that walked six, struck out six and still managed to preserve the lead despite three defensive miscues.
Six Runs in the Fourth
The turning point came when Rowan County exploded for six runs in the fourth, flipping a 4‑1 deficit into a 7‑4 edge. Carter Durant and Cole Blevins each doubled, while Drew Pegram’s two‑run single capped the burst, giving the home side momentum they would not relinquish.
Rowan’s offense kept the pressure on, adding four more runs in the sixth. Singles from Brant Graham, Brody Pope and Jayven Parks, combined with Pegram’s clutch hit, stretched the lead to 13‑9 before Wilmington trimmed the margin with a late rally.
Late Surge and a Disputed Homer
Wilmington’s Jonah Campbell launched the game’s only home run, a shot that was immediately contested by Rowan’s head coach Seth Graham. Despite the controversy, the Red’s 15‑hit attack fell short as Rowan’s defense held firm.
The final tally saw Rowan County finish with 10 hits, eight walks and six strikeouts, while committing three errors. Pitchers Maddox Moore, Jacob Prevette and Connor Park set the stage before Ponczka sealed the win, earning the victory and a spot in the next game of the doubleheader.