The streaking Martha’s Vineyard Sharks have slowed down a bit in recent weeks, and now hold a 16-9 record. While still in first place, the Sharks lead has shrunk to just half a game over the North Shore Navigators.
On Monday night, the Sharks lost a tight game to the Brockton Rox 6-5. The Island boys started strong, with Brian Campbell knocking Jack Roberts home with an RBI single to give the Sharks an early lead. In the fifth inning, the Rox broke the game open with three quick runs. Second baseman Jack Roberts made an error, allowing Rox center fielder Billy Endris to score. Two batters later, Brockton left fielder knocked two teammates home with a single. Down 5-2, the Sharks continued to fight for a victory. Each team scored a run in the sixth, but the real comeback attempt came in the bottom of the eighth inning. Shortstop Guy Davidson, who went 2-3 with a walk on the night, hit a two-run home run to give the Sharks life. Unfortunately, that was where the comeback ended. Brockton closer Tommy Stoffel entered the game following the homer and shut the Sharks down. In 1⅔ innings of work, Stoffel struck out three Sharks batters and surrendered only one hit. First baseman Brian Campbell continued his strong season, though. Against Brockton he went 4-5, raising his batting average to a league-leading .400.
On Sunday, July 5, the Sharks defeated the Worcester Bravehearts 9-4. Ryan Kelly hit a two-RBI single in the bottom of the third, kickstarting a six-run assault. Donovan Casey hit a two-RBI single of his own two batters later, and first baseman Jon Mayer blasted a two-run home run. In the sixth inning, catcher Domenic De Renzo hit a three-run home run to cap the Sharks scoring on the night. Matthew Tulley picked up the win, giving up four runs and striking out seven in five innings of work.
Before the holiday, the Sharks picked up a win on Friday, July 3, defeating the Brockton Rox 6-1. Sharks pitcher Soren Hanson was outstanding, throwing 6⅔ innings and striking out nine. He gave up only four hits and two walks on the night, and lowered his season ERA to 4.15. Donovan Casey (two RBI) and Bobby San Martin (three RBI) each hit a home run, while Jack Roberts stole his fourth base of the season.
The Sharks next play at home on Thursday, July 9, when they take on the Seacoast Mavericks.
