Williamsport Crosscutters Defeat West Virginia Black Bears 6-4 in Series Opener

The Williamsport Crosscutters opened their latest road stretch with a victory, defeating the West Virginia Black Bears 6-4 at Kendrick Family Ballpark. As the Crosscutters navigate a demanding nine-game road trip in the MLB Draft League, Thursday night’s series opener showcased clutch hitting and steady bullpen work to secure the win.

For the second time in three nights, Matthew Williams made a major impact for Williamsport, launching his eighth home run of the season. According to reporting from the Sun-Gazette, Williams’ deep shot traveled 403 feet, leaving the bat at 99 miles per hour and clearing the centerfield wall. The impressive clout marked his only hit of the contest, yet it proved vital in establishing early momentum for the visitors.

Offensive Contributions and Base-Path Spark

Beyond Williams’ long ball, several other Crosscutters delivered multi-hit performances to keep the offense moving against West Virginia. Jack Kail went 2 for 5 with an RBI, while teammate Santino Panaro turned in a 2-for-4 night that included an RBI, two runs scored, and his first three stolen bases of the year, as detailed by the Sun-Gazette.

The scoring attack received further depth from Jake Zitella, who collected an RBI for the second night on a single before being lifted from the game in the ninth inning. Additional offensive production came from Nicholas Romano, who notched his eighth double of the season, alongside contributions from James McCoy and Joey DeMucci.

Pitching Staff Holds the Line

On the mound, starting pitcher Bobby Helt worked five frames, allowing three runs—only one of which was earned—on six hits. Helt issued two walks and struck out five batters, ultimately not factoring into the decision.

The bullpen took over to preserve the lead, with Luc Lavigeuer tossing two scoreless innings to earn the win, lifting his season record to 3-1 after giving up three hits and striking out one. Davin Pollard closed out the final two innings to collect his first save of the season, yielding one run on three hits while recording three strikeouts.

Looking Ahead in the Road Series

The Crosscutters continue their extensive nine-game road trip with the middle contest of this three-game series against West Virginia, scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. Following the conclusion of their time on the road, Williamsport will return home to Bowman Field on Friday, August 28, to host State College.