ZEBULON, N.C. (May 28, 2026) — The Morehead City Marlins opened the 2026 Coastal Plain League season in impressive fashion Thursday night, overcoming an early deficit and erupting for a 15-5 victory over the Zebulon Devil Dogz at Five County Stadium.
After trailing 5-1 entering the sixth inning, the Marlins delivered one of the most explosive offensive innings in recent memory, plating 12 runs to seize control of the game and turn a four-run deficit into a commanding 13-5 advantage. Morehead City capitalized on timely hitting and pitching struggles from the Devil Dogz, sending 16 batters to the plate during the decisive frame.
The Marlins bullpen was outstanding in relief. Carson Gipson earned the victory after delivering three strong innings and stabilizing the game following Zebulon’s early offensive surge. Kole Hopkins and Matt Hubbard followed with scoreless appearances to close out the season-opening win.
Offensively, Ronnie Rowley reached base multiple times and contributed an RBI double to help fuel the Marlins attack. Jon Howard provided the game’s biggest swing, launching a three-run home run over the right-center field wall for Morehead City’s first homer of the 2026 season.
The Marlins finished with 15 runs on the night and showcased the offensive firepower that fans can expect throughout the summer.
Morehead City now turns its attention to Opening Night at Big Rock Stadium on Friday, May 29, when the Marlins host the Florence Flamingos at 6:30 p.m. Fans unable to attend can watch live on Home Team Network, with pregame coverage beginning at 6:15 p.m.
