Rome Emperors Take Opening Series

Drake's homers and bullpen's strong relief lead to series win over Asheville Tourists

Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:26pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game, with overlapping planes of color and shape representing the dynamic action on the field.The Emperors' opening series win showcases their offensive firepower and bullpen depth as they aim to build momentum for the new season.Rome Today

The Rome Emperors opened their South Atlantic League season with a series win over the Asheville Tourists, powered by lead-off hitter Isaiah Drake's two home runs and six innings of strong relief pitching from the bullpen. Dalton McIntyre's game-winning hit in the bottom of the eighth inning secured the Emperors' 3-2 victory on Saturday.

Why it matters

The Emperors' opening series win sets them up well for the start of the new season, as they look to build on their success from last year. The South Atlantic League is a highly competitive minor league, so getting off to a strong start is crucial for any team's playoff hopes.

The details

In the series opener on Friday, the Emperors defeated the Tourists 8-5, with Drake hitting one of his two home runs. On Saturday, Drake homered again and the Emperors' bullpen held the Tourists scoreless for the final six innings to secure the 3-2 win, with McIntyre delivering the game-winning hit in the bottom of the eighth.

  • The Emperors opened their 2026 South Atlantic League season on April 4-5.
  • The Emperors won the series opener on Friday, April 4.
  • The Emperors won the series finale on Saturday, April 5.

The players

Isaiah Drake

The Emperors' lead-off hitter who hit two home runs in the opening series.

Dalton McIntyre

The Emperors' No. 8 hitter who delivered the game-winning hit in the bottom of the eighth inning on Saturday.

Rome Emperors

The minor league baseball team playing in the South Atlantic League.

Asheville Tourists

The Emperors' opponent in the opening series, also a South Atlantic League team.

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The takeaway

The Emperors' strong start to the season, fueled by timely hitting and solid bullpen work, positions them well to compete for a playoff spot in the highly competitive South Atlantic League.