Norfolk Tides News: August 9 - August 15, 2024

Norfolk Tides: A Week of Triumph and Resilience

The past week has been a rollercoaster of emotions and performances for the Norfolk Tides, the Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. From thrilling victories to challenging setbacks, the Tides have shown resilience and determination, culminating in a historic achievement that marks a significant milestone for the team.

A Historic Championship Win

The highlight of the week was undoubtedly the Tides' first International League title in 38 years. On a night that will be remembered for years to come, Norfolk blanked the Durham Bulls 7-0 in the decisive Game 3 of the Championship Series at Harbor Park. This victory not only marked the team's first league title since 1985 but also capped off their winningest season with a 90-59 record, the best in the league's full-season standings.

The star-studded lineup of the Tides delivered in big moments, with top prospects Jackson Holliday, Colton Cowser, Coby Mayo, and Joey Ortiz making significant contributions. Holliday, the Orioles' No. 1 prospect, hit his first career playoff home run, while Mayo had a four-hit night including a two-run homer and a two-RBI double. Ortiz made a diving grab to snare a runner and plated a run on a fielder's choice. The bullpen, led by starter Cade Povich, kept the Rays affiliate's bats silent, setting the tone for the shutout win.

Other Notable Performances

Before their championship win, the Tides had a mixed week with several doubleheaders against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and the Nashville Sounds. They split a doubleheader against Jacksonville, with a thrilling walk-off win in one game and a close loss in the other. Against Nashville, they also split a doubleheader, bouncing back from a 3-2 loss with a 9-1 rout in the second game.

Looking Ahead

The Tides' season isn't over yet. They are headed to Las Vegas for the Triple-A National Championship Game, where they will face the Oklahoma City Dodgers, the winner of the Pacific Coast League. This game will determine the overall winner for the highest rung of the Minors, adding another layer of excitement to their already historic season.

Conclusion

The Norfolk Tides have shown remarkable resilience and determination over the past week, culminating in their first International League title in 38 years. With a star-studded lineup and a strong bullpen, the Tides are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming Triple-A National Championship Game. Their journey is a testament to the team's hard work and dedication, and fans are eagerly looking forward to what the future holds for this talented group of players.