FRESNO, Calif. – The Stockton Ports suffered a heartbreaking 9-8 defeat in 11 innings to the Fresno team on August 24, 2026, dropping the series finale in a California League North matchup. Stockton held a commanding 7-0 lead earlier in the game but was unable to hold on as Fresno rallied late to secure the walk-off victory and clinch the series.
Gavin Turley was the offensive standout for Stockton, hitting two home runs including a grand slam in the fourth inning and a solo home run in the seventh. Turley’s five RBIs tied his season-high mark and helped Stockton build an 8-6 lead after seven innings.
Starting pitcher Josiah Romeo delivered five strong innings, allowing just one run on three hits with one walk and five strikeouts, keeping the Ports ahead through the early part of the game. However, the bullpen faltered as Fresno scored five runs in the sixth inning to close the gap to 7-6.
The ninth inning saw Fresno mount a rally, scoring two runs to tie the game at 8-8 and pushing the contest into extra innings. Both teams traded runs in the tenth inning, tying the score once again at 9-9.
In the 11th inning, the Ports were unable to score with the automatic runner on base, but Fresno delivered the decisive blow with a walk-off single by Cort MacDonald, securing a 9-8 victory and the series win. The loss knotted Stockton and Fresno at 29-25 in the second-half California League North standings.
CSB Take
The Stockton Ports showcased potent offense and solid starting pitching but ultimately fell victim to a late-game bullpen breakdown and a relentless Fresno rally. Gavin Turley’s clutch hitting was a highlight, yet the Ports must address bullpen consistency to preserve leads down the stretch. With the season approaching its final stages, maintaining composure in late innings is essential for Stockton to contend in the tight California League North race.
Source: Original report
