Miles opened the 2026 season with a doubleheader sweep of Philander Smith in the second annual Willie Mays Open on Friday afternoon at Johnson Field. The Golden Bears (2-0) won the first game 14-1 and the second game 14-2.

The offense used 20 walks, 17 hits, two hit-by-pitches and 15 stolen bases to light up the scoreboard over both contests. Ajani Lyons (5-for-6, four RBI, three runs scored, two stolen bases), Myles Wessels (3-for-4, four runs, five RBI, 4-of-4 stolen bases) and BoBo Barnes (4-for-6, four runs scores) were the big hitters while Kaden Burch and Marquis Mitchell each had three RBI in the nightcap.

On the mound, Kyle Cline (1-0) was nearly immaculate in his first career outing with the Golden Bears. He threw five no-hit innings in the opener, allowing just a two-out walk in the fifth inning while striking out six to earn the victory. In the second game, the group of Darryl Johnson, Jayson Wood and Jaelyn Rhynes (1-0) allowed just two runs and four hits while striking out nine batters as the game was halted after five innings.

The Golden Bears will close out the Willie Mays Open on Monday when they face Stillman at historic Rickwood Field. First pitch is set for 1 p.m.