The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs outlasted the Charleston Dirty Birds in a 7-5 victory on July 30, 2025, at GoMart Ballpark in Charleston, West Virginia. Despite an early offensive surge from Charleston, the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs’ relentless bats, capped by a crucial two-RBI single from Ryan McCarthy, secured the win in a rain-shortened six-inning game. The victory moves the Blue Crabs to a 45-37 record, strengthening their position in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Clubs.
Charleston struck first, erupting for five runs in the opening innings, fueled by Joseph Rosa’s home run and double, alongside Keon Barnum’s solo homer. Rosa went 3-for-3, driving in two runs, while Barnum added one RBI. The Dirty Birds’ early lead was bolstered by three stolen bases from Jalen Nelson, Anfernee Womack, and Benjamin Blackwell. However, the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs answered immediately, scoring two runs in the first and two in the second to narrow the gap.
The game’s turning point came in the fifth inning when the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs plated three runs, highlighted by McCarthy’s clutch two-RBI single. Jalen Baylor also shone, going 3-for-3 with an RBI, while Zac Racusin contributed a double and scored a run. The Blue Crabs’ offense tallied 10 hits, capitalizing on Charleston’s pitching struggles, including three walks and a wild pitch from starter Luis De Avila, who took the loss (3-1) after allowing six earned runs in 4.1 innings.
Garrett Martin, the winning pitcher for the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs (3-5), battled through five innings, allowing eight hits and five earned runs but shutting out Charleston in the final two frames. Charleston’s offense faltered late, managing no hits in the sixth and failing to draw a single walk, limiting their comeback chances. The Dirty Birds’ 38-45 record now reflects a 2-0 deficit in the series against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs.
The game, attended by 1,784 fans under mostly sunny 90-degree weather, ended after 1 hour and 59 minutes due to rain. The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs showcased resilience, overcoming Charleston’s early lead and aggressive base-running. For Southern Maryland fans in Waldorf and beyond, the win underscores the team’s offensive depth and ability to perform on the road, a critical factor as they push for a strong finish in the Atlantic League season.
Fans can follow the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs’ progress and upcoming games through the Atlantic League’s website or local coverage. As the team continues its series in Charleston, their ability to maintain offensive momentum will be key. This victory not only boosts the Blue Crabs’ standing but also highlights their growing connection with Southern Maryland’s sports community, where baseball remains a cherished pastime in Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties.
