Bluefield Ridge Runners drop season opener despite early lead

BURLINGTON, NC (WVNS) - The Bluefield Ridge Runners fell to the Burlington Sock Puppets in their 2025 season opener 3-2.

Sock Puppets Starting Pitcher Andrew Steinhaus made the opening innings difficult for the Ridge Runners. He collected two quick strikeouts in the first inning and kept the Bluefield batters at bay, for the most part, through the first 3 innings.

Bluefield Catcher Josh Hines broke the stalemate on a 1-1 ball with 2 outs in the Top of the 4th. He singled on a line drive to center field, sending in Robert Tate Jr. from second base for a 1-0 lead.

In the top of the 5th, the Ridge Runners struck again. Left fielder Cole Decker was set up on third base when designated hitter Trey Callaway singled to center field, which would double Bluefield's lead to 2-0.

The Sock Puppets