The Fredericksburg Nationals defeated the Delmarva Shorebirds 9-5 on Aug. 8, 2026, at Virginia Credit Union Stadium, powered by four home runs. Major League rehabber DJ Herz started for Fredericksburg, and the victory secured the series for the Nationals.
Herz faced early trouble after allowing a leadoff double, then walking a batter to load the bases. He escaped the first inning without allowing a run by striking out the next three batters.
Fredericksburg Nationals Build Early Lead
The Nationals took the lead in the bottom of the second inning. Hunter Hines and Cashel Dugger walked before Jordan Williams hit an RBI double that scored Hines. Manny Cabrera followed with an RBI single that brought home Dugger.
Cristhian Vaquero hit his second home run of the series in the bottom of the third inning. Hunter Hines added a home run in the fifth, crushing a ball over the bullpen in right-center field with Coy James in scoring position. Jordan Williams followed with a home run in the sixth, sending the ball onto the roof of the picnic garden.
Rafael Ramirez Adds Fourth Home Run
Rafael Ramirez hit a two-run home run in the seventh inning in his first game back, extending the lead to 9-2 and securing the victory.
With the win, Fredericksburg took the series, winning each of the first three series against the Delmarva Shorebirds. The Nationals aim to win five out of six games for the third time against Delmarva in the upcoming game. Right-hander RJ Sales is set to make his season debut against Delmarva’s right-hander Esteban Mejia. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. at Virginia Credit Union Stadium.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
Fredericksburg produced four home runs and timely hitting in the second inning to build its lead. Herz also escaped a bases-loaded first inning without allowing a run in his Major League rehab appearance.
The Fredericksburg Nationals were scheduled to pursue five wins in six games against the Delmarva Shorebirds in the following game. RHP RJ Sales was scheduled to make his season debut against RHP Esteban Mejia, with first pitch set for 6:35 p.m. at Virginia Credit Union Stadium.
Source: Original report
