In a hard-fought matchup at Prince George’s Stadium on Thursday night, the Bowie Baysox edged out the Erie SeaWolves with a 5-3 victory, marking their 10th early lead in the last 15 games. Bowie’s consistent performance has balanced their season record to 24 wins and 24 losses.
The game opened strongly for Bowie, the Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, as they notched two runs in the first inning against Erie’s starting pitcher, Troy Melton. Samuel Basallo and Silas Ardoin were pivotal, hitting key doubles that drove in the initial runs, setting a robust pace for the team. Basallo’s evening performance improved his impressive August batting average to .357, while Ardoin maintained a strong showing in the series, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive efforts.
Despite Bowie’s initial surge, Erie, the Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, responded in the second inning, tying the game. A passed ball and an RBI single by Brady Allen capitalized on some early game jitters from Bowie’s pitcher Trace Bright. However, Bright recovered, ending his stint with 4.2 innings pitched, delivering five strikeouts, and holding Erie to two runs.
The Baysox reestablished their lead in the fourth inning with RBIs from Collin Burns and Connor Pavolony, which propelled them ahead 4-2. Burns extended his hitting streak to six games—a new personal best for the season. The lead expanded in the sixth inning when Frederick Bencosme launched a solo homer, his seventh of the season, giving Bowie a comfortable three-run cushion.
Erie narrowed the gap in the seventh, adding another run to the scoreboard, but Bowie’s bullpen held strong. Nick Richmond earned the win in relief, and Keagan Gillies closed the game with a dramatic four-out save, striking out the side in the ninth under high pressure, preserving the win with the tying runs on base.
The teams will meet again Friday night, continuing their six-game series. Bowie is set to start Patrick Reilly, facing off against Erie’s Garrett Burhenn. In addition to the exciting game, fans have much to look forward to with themed events, including Sneakerdome Night and multiple giveaways throughout the weekend, making it a festive atmosphere for all in attendance.
