Warbirds Score Late to Capture Inaugural Victory
Published on April 3, 2026 under Carolina League (CarL)
Wilson Warbirds News Release
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - The Wilson Warbirds secured their first win in franchise history with a 2-0 Opening Day victory over the Fayetteville Woodpeckers on Friday night at SEGRA Stadium.
Filippo Di Turi scored the first run in Warbirds history, scampering home in the ninth inning on a groundout to break a scoreless tie.
Wilson (1-0) finally broke through in the top of the ninth after Leomar Rosario (L, 0-1) issued back-to-back walks to open the frame.
Luiyin Alastre drove in the game's first run with a slow-rolling ground ball, allowing Di Turi to cross the plate for a 1-0 lead.
The Warbirds added an insurance run later in the inning when Jadyn Fielder scored on an errant pickoff throw by Rosario, extending the lead to 2-0.
Fayetteville (0-1) threatened in the bottom of the ninth, as Nick Monistere drew a two-out walk, but was left stranded at second to end the game.
Jose Meneses (W, 1-0) earned the win with a dominant performance out of the bullpen, striking out five over the final two innings to seal the victory.
Wilson's pitching staff was outstanding, allowing just three hits while striking out 15 batters in the shutout win. Starter Miqueas Mercedes set the tone early, tossing five scoreless innings, surrendering only two hits and striking out seven.
The series continues Saturday night, with Wilson set to send right-hander Jarrette Bonet (0-0, 0.00 ERA) to the mound. Fayetteville will counter with right-hander Ethan Pecko (0-0, 0.00 ERA), who is scheduled to make a Minor League rehab start. First pitch is slated for 7:05 p.m.
Carolina League Stories from April 3, 2026
- RidgeYaks Fall to Shorebirds in 11-10 Shootout - Salem RidgeYaks
- Woodpeckers Blanked on Opening Night Despite Strong Pitching - Fayetteville Woodpeckers
- Gray Shines in Three-Hit Night, RiverDogs Fall 5-4 - Charleston RiverDogs
- Mathis Mashes Go-Ahead Ninth Inning Homer, Birds Topple 'Dogs 5-4 - Myrtle Beach Pelicans
- Delmarva Rallies for Three in the Ninth to Stun RidgeYaks - Delmarva Shorebirds
- Pirela's Three Hit Day Sparks Howlers Victory - Hill City Howlers
- FredNats Explode for Five-Run 7th, Earn 5-3 ComeBack Win on Opening Night - Fredericksburg Nationals
- Columbia Takes Down 'Dads 5-2 - Hickory Crawdads
- Warbirds Score Late to Capture Inaugural Victory - Wilson Warbirds
- Gamble's First Pro Homer Powers Fireflies to Win - Columbia Fireflies
- Columbia Fireflies Homestand Preview: April 7-12 - Columbia Fireflies
- Don't Miss a Moment, RiverDogs Unveil Expanded 2026 Broadcast Coverage - Charleston RiverDogs
- Columbia Fireflies Game Notes 4.3 at Hickory - Columbia Fireflies
- Pelicans Pummel RiverDogs in Opening Night Blowout 15-0 - Myrtle Beach Pelicans
- Sold-Out "Joe" Roars, But RiverDogs Fall 15-0 in Opener - Charleston RiverDogs
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
