HARTFORD, Conn. – The Chesapeake Baysox, Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, defeated the Hartford Yard Goats, Double-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, 5-1 in their series finale on May 4, 2025, at Dunkin’ Park. The Baysox (13-14) relied on strong pitching from starter Braxton Bragg and a two-run homer by Douglas Hodo III to secure the victory before heading to their next series.
The Baysox opened the scoring in the second inning when Hodo launched a two-run homer off Hartford’s starting pitcher Connor Staine, who took the loss, dropping to 1-2. Hodo’s homer, his second of the series and fourth of the season, tied him for the team lead. The outfielder finished the week with seven hits, showcasing his consistency at the plate. Bragg, making his second start of the series, earned his first Double-A win, improving to 1-1. He pitched five innings, allowing one unearned run on three hits and one walk while striking out eight, matching his season high.
Chesapeake extended their lead late in the game. In the eighth inning, Max Wagner doubled to drive in two runs, one of his two extra-base hits in the game. Frederick Bencosme added a run-scoring double in the ninth, pushing the Baysox lead to 5-1. The bullpen, featuring Houston Roth, Daniel Lloyd, and Keagan Gillies, was dominant, combining for four shutout innings and five strikeouts. The trio retired the final 12 Hartford batters in order, ensuring the Yard Goats (16-10) could not mount a comeback.
Bragg’s performance highlighted his rapid adjustment to Double-A competition. In three outings, he has posted a 1.35 ERA over 13.1 innings, with 21 strikeouts and only four walks. The Baysox pitching staff’s ability to limit Hartford’s offense was critical, as the Yard Goats managed just three hits in the game. Chesapeake’s offense, meanwhile, capitalized on key moments, with Wagner and Bencosme delivering clutch hits in the late innings to seal the victory.
The Baysox now continue their 12-game road trip with a series against the Portland Sea Dogs, Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, starting May 6 at 6:00 p.m. at Delta Dental Park at Hadlock Field. Chesapeake returns home on May 13 for a homestand against the Akron RubberDucks, Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, with the first game scheduled for 6:05 p.m.
The Milton’s Double-A Eastern League season is in full swing, and the Baysox are showing promise with a balanced roster of prospects. Hodo’s offensive output, combined with Bragg’s pitching prowess, signals potential for further success as the season progresses. Hartford, despite the loss, remains competitive with a 16-10 record, reflecting the strength of the Eastern League’s Double-A competition.
The victory gives Chesapeake momentum as they head to Portland, where they aim to build on their 13-14 record. The Baysox’s ability to blend power hitting with dominant pitching, as demonstrated in this game, positions them well for the second half of their road trip and upcoming homestand.
