The Aberdeen IronBirds entered this season ready to build on last season’s postseason appearance. Though roster turnover happens, the IronBirds have both fresh new talent and their returning manager, Roberto Mercado.
With youngsters Jud Fabian, Dylan Beavers and Frederick Bencosme leading the way, the excitement surrounding the team is at an all-time high.
To help build excitement, mother nature would rain out Opening Day, meaning fans had to wait one more day to see Aberdeen open the season against neighboring state rivals, the Wilmington Blue Rocks.
What ensued was three games over two days, with the IronBirds taking two of the three. They did lose the final game of the series Saturday, when defensive miscues led to half the runs they allowed to be unearned.
It’s hard to discuss the IronBirds without bringing up the No. 16 Orioles prospect, outfielder Jud Fabian. The young outfielder made his presence known, collecting hits and RBIs in two of the three games.
It was the first game on Saturday where Fabian made the biggest mark. He would come to bat four times, collecting two hits and reaching base a third time on a fielder’s choice.
Fabian ended the game 2-for-4, hitting a two-run home run and collecting three total RBIs while scoring three runs.
Of course, you can’t talk about the IronBirds’ opening weekend without talking about catcher James McCann.
The Orioles backup catcher was on a rehab assignment and across two of the three games was 4-for-7 with run, an RBI and a walk before being recalled to join the O’s for Sunday’s game.
On the pitching side of things, it was 2022 fifth-round pick, Trace Bright, who had a strong performance over the weekend.
Starting the second game Saturday, Bright would be pretty masterful in his 3.1 innings or work. Though fielding errors led to three unearned runs, it was his pitch count that shortened his day.
Bright would allow only one hit and two walks, but he struck out 10 of the 15 batters he faced. His final line read 3.1 innings pitched, one hit, three runs, zero earned, two walks and 10 strikeouts.
Aberdeen treated fans to a series victory and a day off for Easter. It’s a strong start to the season, especially if they want to replicate last season’s success.
The IronBirds travel to take on the Hudson Valley Renegades starting Tuesday night at 6:05 p.m. EST. Will the IronBirds carry over their winning ways?
Who stood out to you in this series? Let us know in the comments below! Make sure to follow The Baltimore Battery on Facebook, Twitter and TikTok, and use the hashtag #baltimorebattery when sharing our content!
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