Sharks Beat Gulls, Clinch Southern Division with Thrilling 6-3 Victory!!

Newport, RI – The Martha's Vineyard Sharks captured the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL) Southern Division Championship tonight, defeating the Newport Gulls 6-3 in a nail-biting Game 3. Under cloudy skies with temperatures hovering at 73 degrees, a record crowd of 3,205 fans witnessed the Sharks' resilient comeback to secure the series 2-1 and advance to the NECBL Championship Series.

The best-of-three series showcased the Sharks' clutch performance under pressure. In Game 1 on August 4th in Newport, the Sharks fell 14-7 as the Gulls exploded offensively, including two home runs from Michael Gupton, putting Martha's Vineyard in a must-win situation. Demonstrating their grit, the Sharks roared back in Game 2 on August 5th at home, overwhelming the Gulls 17-6. What started as a tight pitching duel tied 3-3 after three innings turned into a rout when the Sharks erupted for 10 runs in the sixth inning, fueled by timely hits from Brayden Martin, Brady Krzciok, Will Hampton, and Dominic Moats, along with a three-run homer from Max Kaufer earlier in the game. Relief pitchers Colby McNeely and Rohan Lettow were instrumental in bridging the middle innings, shutting down Newport threats and allowing the offense to pull away. This decisive win forced a winner-take-all Game 3, highlighting the Sharks' ability to rebound from adversity and perform when it mattered most.

Tonight's Game 3 was a true cliffhanger, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final pitch. The Gulls struck first with an unearned run in the bottom of the first, taking a 1-0 lead. But the Sharks' offense ignited, tallying six runs on eight hits, including extra-base power that proved pivotal. Standout performer Max Kaufer delivered a stellar showing, going 2-for-3 with a double, a home run, three runs scored, one RBI, and a stolen base, his explosive bat turning the momentum in Martha's Vineyard's favor. Brayden Martin contributed two hits and an RBI, while Brady Krzciok added a hit and an RBI to anchor the lineup. On the mound, starter Anthony Wilkie worked out of a couple of jams and completed two innings allowing one unearned run. Christian Martinez followed and earned the win with three shutout innings, striking out five without allowing a hit. Aiden Dowd was up next and battled through 2.1 innings with two earned runs. The game reached its peak tension in the late innings, with Zach Broderick coming in for a 1.1-inning save, navigating a bases-loaded threat and striking out two to seal the victory on the last pitch. The Sharks' flawless defense (zero errors) and opportunistic base running (multiple steals) were key in holding off Newport's rally attempts.

Tonight's Game 3 was a true cliffhanger, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final pitch. The Gulls struck first with an unearned run in the bottom of the first, taking a 1-0 lead. But the Sharks' offense ignited, tallying six runs on eight hits, including extra-base power that proved pivotal. Standout performer Max Kaufer delivered a stellar showing, going 2-for-3 with a double, a home run, three runs scored, one RBI, and a stolen base—his explosive bat turning the momentum in Martha's Vineyard's favor. Brayden Martin contributed two hits and an RBI, while Brady Krzciok added a hit and an RBI to anchor the lineup.

On the mound, starter Anthony Wilkie worked out of a couple of jams and completed two innings allowing one unearned run. Christian Martinez followed and earned the win with three shutout innings, striking out five without allowing a hit. Aiden Dowd was up next and battled through 2.1 innings with two earned runs. The game reached its peak tension in the late innings, with Zach Broderick coming in for a 1.1-inning save, navigating a bases-loaded threat and striking out two to seal the victory on the last pitch. The Sharks' flawless defense (zero errors) and opportunistic base running (multiple steals) were key in holding off Newport's rally attempts.

"This series epitomized our team's heart and determination," said Sharks Manager Payton "Skip" Fuller. "From bouncing back after a tough Game 1 loss to exploding in Game 2 and hanging on in a thriller tonight, our players showed why they're warriors. Max Kaufer's power, our pitching depth, and the energy from our incredible fans made all the difference.

With the Southern Division crown secured, the Sharks now turn their focus to the NECBL Championship Series against the Northern Division champion Keene SwampBats. Game 1 is set for tonight, August 7th, in Keene, where Martha's Vineyard will look to carry their momentum into the best-of-three finale for the league title.

For tickets, schedules, and more information, visit mvsharks.com or follow the Sharks on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram. Go Sharks!

About the Martha's Vineyard Sharks
The Martha's Vineyard Sharks are a member of the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL), providing top collegiate talent with a platform to develop and entertain fans across the region. The MV Sharks Baseball Foundation, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to promoting baseball on Martha's Vineyard. We are currently seeking support to improve our baseball field at The Shark Tank, enhancing facilities for players, fans, and the community. The total estimated cost for these upgrades is $520,000, and as of today, we have secured commitments totaling $200,000. If interested, your donation will help bridge this gap, directly contributing to better playing conditions, safety features, and accessibility, ensuring the Martha's Vineyard Sharks continue to thrive as a beacon of youth development and local pride. Donate here today via our secure online form at mvsharks.com/donate (powered by MxMerchant for seamless, tax-receipted giving), or email/call Russ Curran at russ.curran@mvsharks.com / 508-813-0380. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference and qualifies for tax benefits.