Pelicans Soar Past RiverDogs in Dominant Season Opener

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans made a resounding statement in their season opener, overpowering the Charleston RiverDogs with a decisive 14-0 victory. The game, which was called in the middle of the eighth inning due to rain, showcased the Pelicans’ offensive prowess and solid pitching, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting season.

In a standout performance, Cubs’ 2025 third-round pick Dominick Reid made his professional debut, delivering four scoreless innings while allowing just two hits. He struck out five batters and issued only one walk, demonstrating the potential that made him a highly regarded draft pick. Following Reid, Jackson Brockett took the mound for the next three innings, earning the win after Reid did not pitch the required five innings. Brockett allowed three hits, walked two, and struck out two.

The Pelicans didn’t waste any time getting on the scoreboard, scoring a run before even putting a ball in play. After shortstop Ty Southisene was hit by the first pitch of the season, the next three batters walked, allowing the Pelicans to take an early lead. Overall, Myrtle Beach amassed 14 runs on 11 hits, benefiting from an impressive 15 walks issued by the RiverDogs’ pitching staff.

Designated hitter Cole Mathis highlighted the offensive onslaught with the first home run of the year, hitting a three-run shot in the second inning. Mathis finished the game with a 2-for-3 performance, drawing three walks and driving in a total of four runs. Southisene also contributed significantly, going 0-for-2 but reaching base four times via three walks and a hit by pitch, scoring three runs in the process.

Right fielder Josiah Hartshorn, making his pro debut, went 1-for-2 with four walks, scoring once and driving in another run with a single. Catcher Logan Poteet added to the offensive explosion, going 2-for-5 with a walk, three runs scored, and two RBIs. First baseman Michael Carico was another key player, contributing a 3-for-6 performance with a double and a run scored. Center fielder Alexey Lumpuy rounded out the offensive highlights, finishing 1-for-4 with a two-run double, two walks, and three RBIs.

As the Pelicans celebrated their commanding win, they left fans eager for what’s to come in the season ahead.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.