Lake Norman Rolls Past A.L. Brown with 12-1 Victory

A.L. Brown HS | Kannapolis, NC | Tuesday March 18, 2025

A dominant offensive performance and strong pitching led Lake Norman to a commanding 12-1 road win over A.L. Brown. The Wildcats capitalized on big innings, scoring three or more runs in three separate frames to put the game out of reach early.

Wildcats' Patience Pays Off

Lake Norman wasted no time applying pressure, plating three runs in the first inning and breaking the game open with a six-run third. Their disciplined approach at the plate forced A.L. Brown ace CJ Gray to work deep into counts, leading to a high pitch count that saw him exit after just two innings. While Gray struck out four, he also walked five, giving the Wildcats plenty of opportunities to capitalize.

Offensively, Andres Acurero led the way with two hits and two runs, while Joe Blumberg had a big night, going 2-for-2 with a double, two runs scored, and three RBIs. Seven different Wildcats recorded a hit in the balanced attack.

Jacobsen, Sheppard Shut Down Wonders

Lake Norman’s pitching was just as impressive as its offense. Starter Eric Jacobsen delivered four strong innings, allowing just two hits and one run while striking out seven to earn the win. Logan Sheppard closed things out with a perfect inning, striking out all three batters he faced.

A.L. Brown struggled to generate offense, managing just two hits in the game. The Wonders will look to bounce back when they travel to Lake Norman for the second game of the series on Friday.

Key Performers

Lake Norman:

• Andres Acurero: 2-for-3, 2 R, 1 RBI
• Christian Sandoval: 1-for-3, 2 R, 1 RBI
• Nick Mavroudis: 1-for-3, 1 R, 1 RBI
• Joe Blumberg: 2-for-2, 2B, 2 R, 3 RBI
• Eric Jacobsen: 4 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 7 K (Win)
• Logan Sheppard: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K

A.L. Brown:

• CJ Gray: 1-for-3
• CJ Gray: 2 IP, 1 H, 3 R (0 ER), 5 BB, 4 K (Loss)

Lake Norman will look to complete the series sweep on Friday as the action shifts to their home field for game 2 of the series.

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SCOUT BLOG

CJ Gray, RHP, A.L. Brown HS, 2025
NC State commit. Long legs and broad shoulders in a 6-foot-2, 200 pound frame. Muscular lower half. Lean frame that will continue to handle strength and weight gains in the coming years. Athletic mover. Oily hips. Has twitch. Simple setup and delivery. Slightly side saddle with a pre-set pivot. Small rocker and lift to the mid-chest. Level and slightly closed through balance, Average stride, landing on-line and square. Excellent back side action, allowing the arm some freedom to get to his release with ease. Long, athletic arm swing. High-3/4 slot. Electric arm speed. Fastball plays with average ride for the velocity. Heavy, and at times late, arm side action. Movement ate bats up, especially when middle in to right handed hitters. Fastball reached