Dr. Phillips Stages Comeback Win 6-3 over The First Academy

After a shaky top half of the first, The First Academy’s starting pitcher 2020 RHP Matt Barrett settled in and delivered a solid three innings of pitching. The First Academy struck early in the bottom of the first, capitalizing on three walks with a three-run double scorched down the left field line into the corner courtesy of 2021 C Tyler Hopkins which gave them an early 3-0 lead. 

The Dr. Phillips bats were silent until the top of the fourth inning when 2020 OF Brandon Fields led off with an infield single, stole second and third, and plated the first of what ended up being six runs in the fourth inning on four base hits. 2023 C Derek Lopez also chipped in with a sacrifice fly and RBI single.

The First Academy threatened again in the bottom of the 7th when they were able to bring the tying run to the plate with two outs. Dr. Phillips responded by bringing in 2022 RHP Samuel Gordon to record the one out save and secure the 6-3 victory for the Panthers. 

With the win, Dr. Phillips moved to 1-0 on the year while The First Academy fell to 0-1

Standouts of the Game

2021 C Tyler Hopkins (The First Academy)
Uncommitted. Got things going right away for The First Academy when he delivered a bases clearing double down the left field line. Strong lower half and makes hard contact.

2020 OF Brandon Fields (Dr. Phillips HS, FL)
South Carolina commit. Started off the rally for Dr. Phillips in the fourth inning by beating out an infield single. Stole 2nd and 3rd before scoring, getting good jumps on the pitcher and showing off his plus speed. High level athlete who is a very high follow this spring.

2023 C Derek Lopez (Dr. Phillips HS, FL)
Uncommitted. Lean frame with loose, quick hands in the box with a confident approach. Drove in a couple runs on a sacrifice fly and RBI single. Young bat to watch moving forward.