The Diamondblacks concluded a historic three-game Trans-Tasman series against the Melbourne Aces, marking the first-ever meeting between the two programmes and a significant milestone in the Australia–New Zealand Shield. Hosted in Melbourne, the series provided a valuable benchmark for the Diamondblacks as they competed against one of the most established professional baseball organisations in the region.
Across the series, the Diamondblacks demonstrated competitiveness, resilience, and clear signs of growth within New Zealand’s high-performance pathway. While the Melbourne Aces ultimately claimed the series, the Diamondblacks produced several standout individual performances and moments that highlighted the depth and potential of the squad.
The opening game of the series set the standard for a challenging contest, with pitching playing a central role for the Diamondblacks. Starter Elliot Johnstone delivered a composed performance, his fastball topping out at 96mph helping to strike out seven batters across five innings. Johnstone consistently attacked the strike zone and competed confidently against a disciplined Aces lineup, providing the Diamondblacks with a strong foundation in game one.
At the plate, Andrew Marck showcased patience and discipline, drawing three walks and working deep counts to apply pressure to Melbourne’s pitching staff. Flynn Morrison provided the Diamondblacks’ offensive highlight, driving in the team’s lone run of the game. Despite these efforts, the Aces capitalised on key opportunities to secure a 6–1 victory.
Reflecting on his role within the group, Marck spoke about the perspective he brings as one of the more experienced players in the squad: “Being a bit older has taught me to really enjoy every moment and not take any of it for granted. I feel genuinely blessed to be in this position and part of the group,” Marck said. “As a player, I just tried to stay ready and present — I was hoping for a few more opportunities with runners on base because I love those big moments. As a leader, it was about staying positive, supporting the boys, and making sure the energy stayed high. I’m super excited about what’s ahead.”
Game two saw the Diamondblacks continue to build momentum, with both pitching and offence contributing to a competitive performance. Cooper Wilson led the way offensively, going 2-for-3 to lead the Diamondblacks in hits. Wilson’s performance at the plate helped generate scoring opportunities and reflected the team’s improved offensive rhythm as the series progressed.
On the mound, the Diamondblacks’ bullpen once again proved its depth. Taylor Irwin delivered an impressive relief outing, throwing 2.1 scoreless innings and recording two strikeouts. Irwin’s ability to shut down the Aces’ offence kept the Diamondblacks within striking distance and highlighted the pitching depth being developed within the programme.
The final game of the series produced one of the most complete team performances and several standout moments. Starter Charlie Adamson demonstrated exceptional command and composure on the mound, throwing 87 pitches in 5.2 innings, 64 of which were strikes. Adamson’s control set the tone early and allowed the Diamondblacks to remain competitive throughout the contest.
Following Adamson, Dakota Parsons came out of the bullpen and delivered a dominant performance, striking out four batters over 1.1 innings. Connor Gleeson followed with a strong outing of his own, striking out two batters across 1.0 inning as the Diamondblacks pitching staff continued to execute and keep the game within reach.
Offensively, Hunter Southey led the Diamondblacks in game three, going 2-for-4 and consistently applying pressure on the Aces’ defence. The highlight of the game came in the top of the seventh inning when Taichi Nakao launched a long clutch two-run home run, cutting the deficit to 3–2 and igniting belief within the Diamondblacks dugout.
Although the late rally fell just short, the moment encapsulated the fighting spirit and competitiveness shown by the Diamondblacks throughout the series.
Head coach Dan Tan reflected on the series as an important step in the continued development of the Diamondblacks programme, highlighting both the positives and the areas to build on moving forward. “Even though the results didn’t go our way in this series, we displayed pockets of very competitive baseball,” Tan said. “We had a number of strong pitching performances, played solid defense, and showed some pop with the bat. Going forward we will need to build on the consistency of all three to get the results going in our favour.”
Baseball New Zealand CEO Megan Crockett also emphasised the wider significance of the series and the opportunity it presents for the future of the Diamondblacks and international competition. “Baseball NZ is excited by the potential to work alongside the Melbourne Aces and establish the Australia–New Zealand Shield as a regular annual fixture for the NZ Diamondblacks,” Crockett said. “We see strong value in continuing discussions with the Aces as we look to build on this fantastic Trans-Tasman rivalry.”
For one of the youngest member of the squad, Ben Sinclair, the series offered a unique opportunity to experience professional-level baseball and learn alongside players at different stages of their careers. “First off, the experience was like nothing I had been a part of before, getting that true professional feel that I was very privileged to be involved with,” Sinclair said. “Getting to play with a wide spectrum of players either in college or players who want to get into pro ball definitely showed that no matter what level they are at, they were always eager to compete at the highest level, which was very inspiring.”
While the Melbourne Aces claimed the Australia–New Zealand Shield, the Diamondblacks take away invaluable experience from the three-game series. Standout performances across the squad highlighted the depth of talent within the programme and reinforced New Zealand’s ability to compete against elite opposition.
The series underscored the importance of exposure to high-level competition and provided a clear insight into the standards required at the next level. The Diamondblacks now turn their focus toward future international opportunities, carrying forward the lessons, confidence, and momentum gained from this landmark Trans-Tasman matchup.
Baseball New Zealand extends its thanks to the Melbourne Aces for hosting the series and contributing to a successful contest that continues to strengthen the baseball pathway between Australia and New Zealand.
Click the links below to rewatch each of our games against the Melbourne Aces:
- Game 1: https://www.youtube.com/live/61YQQw_aMsw?si=-mq5QwV_TrpYj6oi
- Game 2: https://www.youtube.com/live/zTHquFj1G5Q?si=mmLz0EZa8gqU9WzV
- Game 3: https://www.youtube.com/live/oPdPL6hTnUk?si=o6Nl-ktU0ecwIcUy & https://www.youtube.com/live/PdzMyYCF6q0?si=KXCsH17L07KRW8ky
Article by: Marina Lough (Baseball New Zealand).