The 2026 National Baseball League season got underway at the Marsa Baseball Field with Mellieħa facing the Mustangs in the opening two fixtures. The games provided an early contrast in styles, with each contest highlighting different strengths and weaknesses for both teams.
Game 1 – Mellieħa 3, Mustangs 1 (18 April 2026)
Score
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northenders | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Mustangs | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
The opening game of the season was a tightly contested affair dominated by pitching. Mellieħa’s Michael Bartolo delivered a standout performance, throwing a complete game and limiting the Mustangs to minimal offensive production.
The Mustangs managed five hits on the day, with Jesus Yrady leading the effort with two hits and two runs batted in. However, scoring opportunities were limited, and the team struggled to build sustained pressure at the plate.
On the mound, a Mustangs rotation of Henry Wang, Daniele Palumbo and Andres Susarra produced a strong collective performance, allowing just one earned run across seven innings. Despite this, the lack of run support proved decisive, as Mellieħa capitalised on key moments to secure a 3–1 victory.
Game 2 – Mellieħa 10, Mustangs 7 (26 April 2026)
Score
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mustangs | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 7 |
| Northenders | 0 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 3 | x | 10 |
The second game of the series saw a much more offensive contest, with both teams finding greater success at the plate. The Mustangs showed improved discipline, drawing six walks and matching their hit total from the previous game.
Andres Susarra led the way offensively with a two-hit performance, while contributions from Daniele Palumbo, Efrain Deyan and Jorge Acosta helped the Mustangs remain competitive throughout the game.
Despite the improved offensive output, the Mustangs were unable to contain Mellieħa’s lineup. Mellieħa’s Mattheus Konno was recognised as the outstanding player, delivering a strong pitching display that helped his side maintain control during key phases of the game.
The Mustangs’ pitching staff allowed seven earned runs, and although the team kept the scoreline close, Mellieħa ultimately secured a 10–7 win.