Tides' Power Surge Not Enough Against Bulls

Norfolk hits three home runs but can't hold off Durham's comeback

Apr. 19, 2026 at 9:10pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, energetic brushstrokes in neon colors that capture the intensity and motion of a baseball game, with players' forms dissolving into vibrant splashes of paint.The Tides' early power surge was not enough to hold off the Bulls' relentless comeback in this high-scoring affair.Durham Today

The Norfolk Tides (7-12) fell to the Durham Bulls (7-12) by a score of 19-9 on Friday night at Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The Tides jumped out to a 9-1 lead, but Durham stormed back with 18 unanswered runs to win the game.

Why it matters

This game highlights the ups and downs of the Tides' season so far, as they've struggled to maintain leads and close out wins. The loss evens the series between the two teams, setting up an important rubber match on Saturday.

The details

Norfolk started strong, scoring six runs in the third inning. Enrique Bradfield Jr. hit his second home run of the season, and Willy Vasquez blasted his first career Triple-A homer, a three-run shot. Jhonkensy Noel then hit a three-run homer in the fourth to put the Tides up 9-1. But Durham stormed back, scoring 18 unanswered runs to complete the comeback victory.

  • The Tides jumped out to a 9-1 lead through the first four innings.
  • Durham scored 18 unanswered runs to take the lead and win the game.

The players

Enrique Bradfield Jr.

Norfolk Tides outfielder who hit a home run in the game.

Willy Vasquez

Norfolk Tides infielder who hit a three-run home run in the third inning.

Jhonkensy Noel

Norfolk Tides infielder who hit a three-run homer in the fourth inning.

Durham Bulls

The opposing team that came back from a large deficit to win the game.

Norfolk Tides

The home team that jumped out to an early lead but couldn't hold on.

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What they’re saying

“We had them on the ropes early, but they just kept chipping away. Credit to Durham for never giving up and finding a way to win this one.”

— Tides Manager

What’s next

The series between the Tides and Bulls is now tied 2-2. The two teams will face off again on Saturday night, with first pitch scheduled for 6:45 pm.

The takeaway

This game showcases the resilience of the Durham Bulls, who were able to mount a huge comeback after falling behind early. For the Tides, it's a tough loss that highlights their ongoing struggle to close out games and maintain leads. The rubber match on Saturday will be an important one as both teams look to gain an advantage in the series.