Sharks Explode for 17 Runs in Game 2 Rout, Force Decisive Game 3 with 17-6 Thrashing of Newport

Oak Bluffs, MA - The Martha's Vineyard Sharks delivered a resounding response in Game 2 of the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL) Southern Division Championship series, routing the Newport Gulls 17-6 at The Shark Tank to even the best-of-three series at 1-1. With the victory, the Sharks set the stage for a decisive Game 3 tomorrow night in Newport, where the winner will advance to the NECBL Championship Series.

After dropping Game 1 on Monday by a score of 14-7 in Newport, highlighted by a powerful offensive display from the Gulls, including two home runs from center fielder Mike Gupton, the Sharks returned home determined to extend the series. Newport erupted for 10 runs over the fourth and fifth innings in the opener, capitalizing on timely hitting and building an insurmountable lead despite a late rally from Martha's Vineyard.

Game 2 unfolded as a tale of resilience and firepower for the Sharks. The Sharks struck first in the bottom of the second inning with a three-run home run from catcher Max Kaufer to take a 3-0 lead. Newport battled back in the top of the third, tying the game at 3-3 on a two-run homer from Colby Wallace and an RBI double from Gupton. The Gulls briefly threatened, but the Sharks regained control with single runs in the bottom of the third and fifth innings, pushing ahead 5-3.

The turning point came in the bottom of the sixth, where Martha's Vineyard exploded for 10 runs on six hits, blowing the game open at 15-4. Newport added two runs in the seventh, but the Sharks tacked on two more in the eighth to seal the 17-6 final. The offensive outburst showcased the team's depth and ability to capitalize on opportunities, turning a close contest into a rout." 

Tonight was about heart and execution," said Sharks Head Coach Payton "Skip" Fuller. "We knew we had to respond after Game 1, and our guys delivered in a big way. That sixth inning was electric, and now we're one win away from the finals. We can't wait to take this energy to Newport."

Standout performances powered the Sharks' victory. Center fielder Will Hampton led the charge, going 4-for-5 with four runs scored. Catcher Max Kaufer drove in a game-high five runs, including his three-run homer in the second. Third baseman Brayden Martin contributed three hits, three runs, and three RBIs, while first baseman Brady Krzciok also notched three hits and three RBIs. On the mound, reliever Ryan Ashford earned the win with 1.1 innings pitched, and Warner Gearhart secured the save over three innings with four strikeouts.

The series now shifts back to Cardines Field in Newport for Game 3 tonight, Wednesday, August 6th, with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m. The winner will claim the Southern Division title and face the Northern Division champions, the Keene SwampBats, in the NECBL Championship Series, beginning August 7th.

Tickets for Game 3 are available at the Newport Gulls' Ticket Window at Cardines Field, which opens tomorrow (Game Day) at 5:00pm.

For additional 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.