Salisbury, MD – May 9, 2026
In a tightly contested matchup, Queen Anne’s County used a decisive third-inning rally and strong pitching down the stretch to secure a 2-1 victory over Parkside on Saturday morning. The game, played at Parkside, featured a strong early push from the home side before shifting into a defensive battle that was ultimately decided by one swing.
Fast Start for Parkside
Parkside struck first in the opening inning, manufacturing a run despite limited contact. Garrett Jones came around to score after working his way on base and advancing into scoring position, eventually crossing the plate on a groundout. That early execution gave Parkside a 1-0 lead and set the tone for what appeared to be a disciplined offensive approach.
Third-Inning Turning Point
Queen Anne’s County answered in the third inning with the game’s most critical sequence. After putting runners on base with a string of hits, Chance Hegedus delivered the decisive moment, ripping a line-drive double that plated two runs. The clutch extra-base hit flipped the momentum and gave Queen Anne’s County a 2-1 advantage they would not relinquish.
Pitching Locks In
Once the lead changed hands, both teams leaned heavily on their pitching staffs. Tristan Merritt set the tone early with multiple strikeouts, working out of key situations and keeping Queen Anne’s County in check outside of the pivotal inning. Later, Paxton Green contributed crucial outs, including strikeouts in the late innings that kept Parkside within striking distance.
Defensive Stand Seals It
Queen Anne’s County’s defense proved airtight in the final innings. A clean and efficient seventh inning highlighted their composure, as the infield converted routine plays and prevented any late-game rally. Parkside’s last three batters were retired in order, including a pair of groundouts and a pop out, closing the door on the comeback attempt.
Player of the Game
Chance Hegedus (Queen Anne’s County) earned Player of the Game honors after delivering the game-changing two-run double in the third inning, providing all the offense his team needed in the narrow victory.
Final
Parkside 1, Queen Annes County 2
Queen Anne’s County capitalized on its key opportunity while holding firm defensively, escaping Parkside with a hard-fought one-run win. QAC will head to the regional championship game Tuesday.