HIGH POINT, N.C., June 8, 2025 — The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs secured a 4-3 victory over the High Point Rockers, propelling manager Stan Cliburn to 2,035 career Minor League wins, overtaking Tom Kotchman for sole possession of 13th place all-time. The Atlantic League contest, decided in a rubber match at Truist Point, saw strong pitching and a crucial two-run homer from Jackson Loftin.
The Blue Crabs struck first in the second inning. Jamari Baylor reached on a hit-by-pitch, and Giovanni Digiacomo singled. Brett Barrera’s RBI groundout scored Baylor, and Pearce Howard’s sacrifice fly brought Digiacomo home for a 2-0 lead. High Point tied the game in the fourth when Jack Conley’s two-run single scored Drew Mendoza and Max Viera. Southern Maryland regained the lead in the fifth with Loftin’s two-run homer, scoring Barrera, who had singled.
High Point narrowed the gap to 4-3 in the eighth when Mendoza doubled, stole third, and scored on Braxton Davidson’s single. The Rockers’ late rally fell short, and the Blue Crabs held on. Andrew Thurman earned the win, pitching six innings, allowing two runs on four hits, and striking out eight. Joey Hennessey and Jarod Wright bridged to Brandon McCabe, who notched his second save.
The game, attended by 1,824 fans under overcast skies, lasted 2 hours and 36 minutes. The Blue Crabs (20-19) return to Waldorf for a nine-game homestand, starting Tuesday against the Gastonia Ghost Peppers. The Rockers fell to 27-12.
Cliburn’s milestone came after a grueling road trip, including a doubleheader in York and series in Long Island and High Point. His 2,035 wins mark a storied career in Minor League baseball, now in sole possession of 13th place, a testament to his longevity and success.
The Atlantic League, an independent professional league, features competitive play and develops talent for Major League affiliates. Southern Maryland’s roster, including standouts like Loftin (.261 AVG, 3 HR) and Thurman (6.06 ERA), reflects the league’s mix of veterans and prospects. High Point’s Mendoza (.321 AVG) and Conley (.310 AVG) kept the game close, but Southern Maryland’s pitching sealed the win.
