With just under 10 games left in the regular season of the 2024 NECBL summer campaign, the Sharks find themselves firmly in the mix to make the playoffs. Despite a discouraging 0-6 start, the team turned it around and won 15 of the next 24 games.

But there is still work to do, in particular recapturing the winning momentum they had in the previous three weeks.

The top eight teams of the 13 NECBL competitors make the playoffs, with the last two spots going to wild cards. As of July 16, the Sharks sit at 15-15, a perfect .500 record, but one that may not be enough to secure a playoff spot.

Young fans wait to have their baseballs signed by Sharks players. — Jonathan Fleischmann

The playoffs were simply a pipe dream following the first two weeks of the summer, but a scorching stretch of wins at the end of June catapulted the team into contention, improving from dead last in the league to middle of the playoff pack. They are five games back from the Newport Gulls, who lead the Coastal Division, and two games behind the Mystic Schooners.

Powering the playoff push are shortstop Chris Hacopian and third baseman Reese Robinett.

Hacopian and Robinett will headline the left side of the Eastern All-Stars infield, both selected at their natural positions. The All-Star game takes place July 21 at Muzzy Field in Bristol, Conn.

Sharks' pitcher takes the mound. — Jonathan Fleischmann

The selection of Hacopian and Robinett comes as no surprise, since the Razorback and Terrapin have been leading the offensive production for the Vineyard. Both hit above .350, and Robinett is second best in the league for home runs and runs batted in.

“I would say accolades are a byproduct of obviously going and having success,” Hacopian said. “But my main goal right now is just to play, get better at shortstop, become a better hitter and win games. Grateful to represent the Sharks.”

Sharks Andrew Yu and Scott Seeker will also make the trip to Muzzy Field. Duke Blue Devil Andrew Yu was selected as a reserve due to his impressive play behind the dish, and last summer’s All Star, Scott Seeker, will participate in the home run derby.

Back at home in Oak Bluffs, the Sharks dropped their last two games at the Shark Tank, allowing for a combined 38 runs against the Ocean State Waves and North Shore Navigators.

The next home game is Wednesday, July 17 against the Mystic Schooners. The final game of the regular season is July 30, followed by the NECBL playoffs.