NORFOLK, Va. (Interstat) — The Charlotte 49ers delivered a stunning and comprehensive performance Saturday, routing the Old Dominion Monarchs 13-0 in a nonconference baseball game that defied pregame projections at Bud Metheny Baseball Complex.

The game, which began in the afternoon and concluded in the evening, saw Charlotte’s offense erupt for 15 hits while five 49ers pitchers combined on a five-hit shutout. The dominant victory improved both teams’ overall records to 6-3.

The most important sequence of the game came in the top of the third inning, transforming a narrow lead into a commanding advantage. With one run already in, Alec DeMartino singled to set the stage for designated hitter Dylan Koontz. Koontz, who finished 3 for 4 with four RBIs, launched a three-run home run down the right-field line, clearing the bases and pushing Charlotte’s lead to 4-0. That swing broke the game open and set the tone for the remainder of the afternoon.

Charlotte’s offensive barrage was relentless. The 49ers added four runs in the fourth inning and five more in the fifth. DeMartino went 3 for 5 with two RBIs and three runs scored, while Cody Gunderson contributed two doubles and two RBIs. Charlotte executed three sacrifice flies in the game.

The lopsided score overshadowed a brilliant start from Charlotte’s Eddie Copper, who was named the top star. Copper earned the win with four hitless and scoreless innings, walking one and striking out two. The bullpen preserved the shutout emphatically, with Andrew Kribbs striking out four of the five batters he faced over 1 1/3 perfect innings. Chayse Oxborrow and Jaden Winter each contributed scoreless relief.

Old Dominion, which had won four of its last five, never threatened. The Monarchs managed just five hits, all singles and doubles, and stranded several runners. Starter D. Kuskie took the loss. Reliever Ben Tanton provided a bright spot for Old Dominion with a perfect sixth inning, striking out three consecutive Charlotte batters.

The result was a stark contrast to the pregame simulation from Interstat, which had projected a 7-6 victory for Old Dominion. Charlotte’s ELO win probability was listed at 53.4%.

Charlotte, now winners of four straight, will look to secure the series victory when the teams meet again Sunday. Old Dominion will aim to rebound in the finale before turning its attention to a midweek matchup at VCU.