Thank You, Shwag Nation: Shallywags Wrap Up a Season to Remember

SHALLOTTE, N.C—The Shallywags’ debut season came to a close Friday night, but not before leaving their mark on the Old North State League. A 4–2 loss to the Jacksonville Ospreys in the Coastal Division semifinals ended Shallotte’s playoff run, but the grit, growth, and unforgettable moments of their first campaign won't be forgotten.

On the field, the Shallywags quickly established themselves as one of the Coastal Division’s most exciting teams. Despite early inconsistency, Shallotte surged late in the regular season, winning five straight games to finish 17–13 and clinch the No. 3 seed in the playoffs. Along the way, standout performers like RBI leaders Ryan Yaroshuk (44), Jude Morton (33), and home run leader Branton Jernigan (4), helped power a lineup that scored in double digits twelve times and delivered several thrilling comeback victories, including a 17–10 regular season finale over the Oak Island Loggerheads to clinch their third-place seed. 

The Shallywags earned their first postseason win in franchise history dominantly, defeating the Hope Mills Rockfish 17–3 in the opening round of the divisional playoffs. That night, Morton drove in six runs, and Zach Steagall closed the door with five no-hit innings in relief, marking a high point in a season filled with growth, resilience, and timely performances.

But the Shallywags’ success wasn’t just measured by the scoreboard. From the start, the organization promised a fan-first experience at Mike Alderson Field — and they delivered. During breaks, fans enjoyed themed nights, on-field games, giveaways, and even the popular Schmee music trivia, where fans could win free stickers and T-shirts by answering musical trivia questions. Local businesses also connected with the community through sponsorship nights, while food trucks, off-field activities, and lively singing and dancing with the players and Shallotte’s mascot, Schmee, created an atmosphere that felt more like a Savannah Bananas-style event.

General Manager Steve Prokop — who also moonlights as Schmee during home games — was proud of both the baseball operation and the entertainment experience delivered in the team’s first year.

“As the mascot, I had a lot of fun. As the general manager, it was a lot of hard work that was very fulfilling,” Prokop said.

Taking over GM duties in mid-June, Prokop credited much of the team’s smooth operations to the volunteers and interns who helped bring each of the 16 home games to life, including the playoff win against Hope Mills.

“This type of stuff does not happen without the volunteers and interns,” he said. “They are the heart and soul of the organization, and it does not go the way it went, as well as it went, without them.”

As the lights dim on an unforgettable first season, the Shallywags have already carved out a special place in Shallotte’s summer tradition. With a loyal fan base and high expectations for next year, the future looks bright for this upstart franchise. Whether it was the big hits, dance-offs, giveaways, or community connections, one thing is clear — baseball in Shallotte is here to stay.

So here’s to the volunteers, the players, the fans, and everyone who waved the Jolly Roger high this summer — the voyage is just beginning.

Stay connected with the Shallywags this offseason at shallotteshallywags.com, and follow them on social media for updates on new players, team news, and the 2026 schedule. Until then — thank you, Shwag Nation!