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Wilson Warbirds win big at inaugural game inside new ballpark
TL;DR
The Wilson Warbirds won their inaugural game at the new Wilson Ballpark, defeating the Hill City Howlers 7-5 in front of 5,000 fans. The team, formerly known as the Carolina Mudcats, has relocated to a $64 million stadium in Wilson.
On Tuesday night, 5,000 fans were a part of history when the Wilson Warbirds beat the Hill City Howlers 7-5 in their inaugural game at Wilson Ballpark.
"I just could not foresee them putting a stadium this nice in such a small space," said lifelong Wilson resident Allan Overton.
The Wilson Warbirds, formerly known as the Carolina Mudcats, were located in Zebulon. The team rebranded and relocated to a brand new, $64 million stadium in Wilson.
Six-time MLB All-Star Prince Fielder throws out the first pitch at Wilson Ballpark to his son, Jadyn, who is an infielder on the Warbirds. pic.twitter.com/TUwoCBEGIH
— Kate Rogerson (@KateRogersonTV) April 14, 2026
Dianna and Gene Mallozzi own Geno's Gelato, a small business in Wilson. They say it's been amazing to watch the commitment from the city to help transform downtown.
"We moved here when this was basically just empty land," said Dianna Mallozzi. "We were kind of thinking about what would go well here. Maybe a park? Maybe something like that, but this is better."
There's something for everyone at a Warbirds game.
Hellllllooooo Wilson Stadium! Pro baseball is back in Wilson for the first time in 53 years. The Warbirds begins a six-game series vs. the Hill City Howlers tonight.@ABC11_WTVDpic.twitter.com/1PTAIajC5F
— Kate Rogerson (@KateRogersonTV) April 14, 2026
"It's definitely a calendar event," said Gene Mallozzi. "We're lucky to be here."
Concessions, merchandise, outdoor hospitality patios, and a playground in the outfield make the fan experience extend beyond the actual baseball game.
A look inside the new ballpark in Wilson, home of the Warbirds. @ABC11_WTVDpic.twitter.com/KhhT8gIqEe
— ABC11Charlie Mickens (@GameDayCharlie) April 14, 2026
Six-year-old Griffin Hayes can't wait to attend another Warbirds game.
"It was cool," he said.
The Warbirds are now 4-6 on the season. Their series vs. the Howlers will run through Sunday.
Q&A
What was the score of the Wilson Warbirds' inaugural game?
The Wilson Warbirds won their inaugural game against the Hill City Howlers with a score of 7-5.
Who threw the first pitch at the Wilson Ballpark opening?
Six-time MLB All-Star Prince Fielder threw the first pitch at the Wilson Ballpark, and he threw it to his son, Jadyn, who plays for the Warbirds.
What is the cost of the new Wilson Ballpark?
The new Wilson Ballpark was built at a cost of $64 million.
