Saskatoon Berries slugger Ethan Murdoch (Swift Current, Sask.), right, was the first Berries player to touch the championship trophy after the club won their first WCBL title. Photo: Saskatoon Berries

*This article was originally published on Saskatchewan Dugout Stories on August 20. You can read it here.

August 22, 2026

By Joe McFarland

Saskatchewan Dugout Stories

He was good with getting to touch the Harry Hallis Memorial Trophy at some point during the evening.

Ethan Murdoch admits he was standing in behind many of his Saskatoon Berries teammates when head coach Joe Carnahan told him to “get up here” and be the one to accept the hardware and bring it to his teammates.

It was a moment the senior slugger won’t soon forget, just moments after the Berries clinched the two-game sweep of the Sylvan Lake Gulls to capture their first Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) championship.

In his mind, it was the perfect way to end his collegiate career.

“To be able to hold it up first, hold it up to the crowd and see their reaction, and bring it to the boys … I mean, that was unbelievable,” Murdoch said.

“It’s up there as number one in my career in terms of baseball moments and just moments in life in general.”

HOW BOUT THAT!!! We’ll be celebrating this one for a berry long time 🤩 pic.twitter.com/ZEzNH5X8F3

— Saskatoon Berries (@StoonBerries) August 19, 2026

He calls it a “great reward” for a hard-fought season and a lot of work put in over the course of his baseball journey.

THE INFLUENCE OF COACH JOE

A product of Swift Current, Murdoch grew up as a bit of an understudy of Carnahan, even serving as the 57’s batboy and catching bullpens for them in high school.

The McCook Community College product finally got his chance to suit up with the 57’s in 2023, hitting .333 with four home runs and 30 runs batted in, even making the WCBL All-Star Game.

After spending the summer of 2024 with the Harrisonburg Turks of the Valley League, Murdoch got a call about spending the following summer back at home with a familiar face: Carnahan was fresh off coaching the expansion Berries in their inaugural season.

“He’s been a big part of my career and a big part of my life in general,” said the 6-foot-2, 205-pound right-hander. “You know what you’re going to get from him, he knows a tonne about the game, and he’s just really good at handling the people and different pieces of the game.”

Murdoch thrived with the team in his first season (2025), hitting .325 with 10 home runs, 53 RBIs and 13 stolen bases as the Berries captured the WCBL record for wins in a season, going 46-9.

However, their dreams of a WCBL championship were thwarted by the Regina Red Sox in the East Division Championship Series.

KEEP SHOWING UP

With a bitter taste in their mouths, Murdoch and the Berries were determined to make amends in 2026.

They rolled to a 38-18 record, which was good enough for second place in the East Division, with Murdoch among the league leaders in batting average (.358), hits (82), doubles (17), home runs (14) and RBIs (62).

The Marshall Thundering Herd graduate says they had to go through some adversity with wins and losses, as well as injuries and player departures, which wasn’t something they saw a lot of the prior season.

“I think we were really resilient and just kept playing the game really well,” Murdoch said. “This team didn’t really get fazed when things went wrong. We made a couple of mistakes every game and we just kept showing up.”

When the Berries survived an opening round best-of-three series with the Red Sox that went three games, they felt like no one else could beat them.

They then swept the Moose Jaw Miller Express and the Gulls to lay claim to the franchise’s first WCBL championship in its three-year existence.

For his part, Murdoch hit .300 with three roundtrippers and six RBIs in seven postseason contests.

GOING OUT ON TOP

“This playoff run was special,” Murdoch said after the final out was registered in the 11-1 game two win over Sylvan Lake.

It meant even more to the Berries doing it at home in front of a capacity crowd of more than 2,500 fans at NexGen Patch at Cairns Field.

“It was so fun with these guys,” Murdoch continued. “It’s just an incredible feeling of accomplishment because we deserve the celebration and it’s just so much fun with this crowd.”

His family was also in attendance for the finale, even though they were a little sleep deprived as Murdoch’s older sister gave birth to a healthy and happy baby recently.

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Listen to the podcast episode devoted to the Saskatoon Berries WCBL championship here.

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He says they made a point of seeing as many games as possible during his final summer of baseball.

Murdoch is set to join the Western Hockey League’s Swift Current Broncos this fall as their new strength and conditioning coach.

He admits it will be a tough pill to swallow as he had dreams of playing baseball professionally, but having the opportunity to win it all in his final season in his home province is quite a way to leave it all out on the field.

“It’s a bittersweet moment for sure, but I know some guys on the other side tonight and last week and the week before where they’re done and they’re not done with a ring,” Murdoch said.

“For me, it’s going out on my own terms and I went out on top, so it’ll definitely feel a lot easier with this one tonight, for sure.”

August 21, 2026

Official Seattle Mariners News Release

SEATTLE – Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & General Manager of Baseball Operations Justin Hollander announced the following roster moves on Friday:

-Carlos Vargas, RHP, reinstated from 60-day Injured List (right lat strain).

-Nick Davila, RHP, optioned to Triple-A Tacoma.

-Matt Brash (Kingston, Ont.), RHP, transferred to 60-day Injured List (right lat strain).

The Mariners 40-man roster remains full at 40 players.

Vargas, 26, was placed on the Injured List on March 27. He will make his 2026 debut when he first appears in a game. Over 4 rehab appearances with Triple-A Tacoma (3 G) and High-A Everett (1 G), he tossed 4 2/3 scoreless innings with two hits allowed, zero walks and six strikeouts.

The Moca, Dominican Republic native made 70 appearances for the Mariners in 2025, going 5-5 with a 3.97 ERA with 54 strikeouts and 23 walks. He earned his first Major League win on April 11 vs. Texas and his first MLB save on May 6 at the Athletics. He made his Mariners debut on March 28 vs. the Athletics.

Vargas has appeared in parts of two Major League seasons with the Diamondbacks (2023) and Mariners (2025). He was originally signed by the Cleveland Guardians as an international free agent on July 2, 2016 and was acquired by the Mariners on November 22, 2023 along with C Seby Zavala from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for INF Eugenio Suárez.

Davila (DAH-vee-LAH), 27, was recalled on August 7. Overall, this season he is 0-0 with a 4.10 ERA with 13 strikeouts and one save in 23 appearances for Seattle. Davila earned his first career save on June 9 at Baltimore.

Davila was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Detroit Tigers on July 7, 2020. He signed a minor league contract with the Mariners on March 27, 2023. He has appeared in six minor league seasons in the Tigers (2021-22) and Mariners (2023-present) organizations, going a combined 18-30 with a 4.94 ERA, 107 walks and 345 strikeouts in 129 games (42 starts). Davila was invited to Major League Spring Training this year and appeared in 7 Cactus League games.

The 6-foot-3 right-hander is a Hialeah, Florida native. He played one season at the University of South Florida after transferring from Hillsborough Community College (Tampa, Fla.).

Brash, 28, is eligible to return from the 60-day Injured List at any time. He was placed on the 15-day Injured list on June 10 (retroactive to June 9). In his 20 MLB appearances this season, Brash (Kingston, Ont.) is 3-0 with a 0.54 ERA with 15 strikeouts and six walks.

The right-hander has appeared in four Major League seasons with Seattle, going 17-11 with eight saves and a 3.06 ERA with 242 strikeouts and 86 walks in 190 games (five starts). He missed the 2024 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery.

Brash was acquired by Seattle as the “player to be named later” from the San Diego Padres in a deal that sent right-hander Taylor Williams to the Padres on Aug. 31, 2020. Brash has been one of the most effective relief pitchers in the game since joining the Mariners, leading the Majors in appearances (78) in 2023 and going 1-0 with a 1.46 ERA in 11 postseason appearances between 2022 and 2025.

August 20, 2026

Official Victoria HarbourCats News Release

Victoria, BC - The West Coast League announced their 1st and 2nd "All-WCL" teams and Honourable Mentions on Thursday and the HarbourCats are pleased to have five HarbourCats who earned recognition for their stellar play in 2026.

Leading the way were pitchers Jeremiah Arnett and Erik Rico, both of whom earned ALL-WCL First Team honours. Arnett was simply brilliant this year, winning the WCL pitching triple crown with five wins, 66 strikeouts and a 2.15 ERA to headline the first-team pitching selections. Rico was not far behind with 64 strikeouts and a 1.82 ERA. Both were named to the 2026 North Division All-Star team in July and Rico won Pitcher of the Week honours in early July.

All-WCL Second Team honours went to another 2026 All-Star David Krahn (Abbotsford, B.C.) and to pitcher Davis Lee (Richmond, B.C.). Krahn finished the year with a .307 batting average, with 31 RBIs and nine home runs, a new HarbourCats single season record.

Lee was quietly impressive on the mound, appearing in 13 games and amassing a record of 3-0 and an ERA of 2.95 with 35 strikeouts in 21 1/3 innings of work.

Finally, earning Honourable Mention was HarbourCats Designated Hitter Logan Shepherd (Mercer). An All-Star in 2025, Shepherd had another solid season for the 'Cats in 2026 finishing with a .286 average with four home runs and 26 RBIs. His four home runs put him two shy of the HarbourCats’ career franchise record.

August 20, 2026

By Jason Young

Winnipeg Goldeyes

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Third baseman Cam Hassert hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth inning Thursday evening as the Sioux Falls Canaries defeated the Winnipeg Goldeyes 5-4 at Sioux Falls Stadium.

Sioux Falls opened the scoring in the bottom of the second inning. Second baseman Trevor Achenbach singled before catcher TJ Racherbaumer reached with a base hit, and centre fielder Joe Vos followed with a single to left field that brought Achenbach home.

The Canaries extended their lead to 3-0 in the fourth. Achenbach singled and Vos followed with a two-run home run to right field.

Winnipeg cut the deficit to one with a pair of runs in the fifth. Second baseman Peyton Holt scored on left fielder Adam Hall’s single to left field, and third baseman Ramón Bramasco came home when centre fielder Noah Marcelo followed with another base hit to left.

The Goldeyes moved in front in the seventh. Bramasco walked and stole second before Hall (London, Ont.) drew a walk. Marcelo then lined a two-run double to left field, scoring both runners and giving Winnipeg a 4-3 lead.

Sioux Falls tied the game in the eighth when pinch-runner Chase Engelhard stole second base and scored on left fielder Anthony Hall’s single to left.

Hassert ended the game with one out in the bottom of the ninth, hitting a solo home run to left field off right-hander Derrick Cherry.

Right-hander James Bradwell (North Vancouver, B.C.) started for Winnipeg and allowed three runs on eight hits over five innings. He struck out five without issuing a walk. Right-hander Aidan Newton followed with two scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out three, while right-hander Sage Ferguson was charged with the tying run.

Left-hander Thomas Dorminy started for Sioux Falls and allowed two runs on five hits in 5 2/3 innings, striking out five and walking two. Right-hander Eric Waldichuk struck out two in a scoreless inning of relief.

Marcelo finished 2-for-4 with a double and three runs batted in. He now leads the Goldeyes with 79 runs batted in and 106 hits.

Winnipeg opens a three-game series against the Sioux City Explorers at Lewis & Clark Park Friday at 6:35 p.m. Right-hander Luke Boyd is scheduled to start for the Goldeyes, while Sioux City’s starter has yet to be announced.

*This article was originally published on Alberta Dugout Stories on August 20, 2026. You can read it here.

August 20, 2026

By Joe McFarland

Alberta Dugout Stories

The wind is clearly in his sails and Matt Wilkinson is taking full advantage of the conditions.

It was already a year to remember for the left-handed hurler after making his Team Canada debut at the World Baseball Classic and his continued rise through the minor leagues.

Even a midseason trade from the Cleveland Guardians to the San Francisco Giants couldn’t stop his momentum, impressing his new team’s brass enough to get the call-up.

Two days later, Wilkinson was getting the start for the Giants against his old team, the Guardians in Cleveland.

With family and friends in attendance, the young man affectionately known as “Tugboat” began his Major League Baseball career by twirling two scoreless innings, allowing just one hit with no walks or strikeouts.

The Giants went on to win the game 1-0.

“I was just told I got the first and we would go from there,” Wilkinson told reporters after the outing. “No complaints – I helped the team win at the end of the day.”

It was a moment many former teammates and coaches back in Alberta have been waiting for, watching from afar and beaming with pride to see another old friend make it to “The Show.”

DAWG GONE GOOD

Wilkinson’s journey to the big leagues has been well-documented.

The Ladner, B.C. native first jumped onto everyone’s radar with an unforgettable performance for Canada at the 2015 Little League World Series.

He moved to Okotoks to attend Dawgs Academy in high school, continuing to dominate in every outing, including time with the Western Canadian Baseball League Dawgs during their 2019 championship run.

Wilkinson pitched for them again in 2021, then was a key contributor to the Dawgs’ 2022 championship run, closing out their game three victory over the Moose Jaw Miller Express.

“I thought he had the stuff to be a big leaguer since the first time I ever played catch with him,” said Dawgs pitching coach Joe Sergent.

“I knew he had the stuff and the mental makeup to make it. It just came down to what organization would be willing to see through the analytics and see what he is actually doing on the mound.”

The Central Arizona College product returned for the first couple of games in 2023 before moving on to the Cape Cod League ahead of being drafted by the Guardians that summer.

From there, it’s been nowhere but up for the young southpaw, striking out 174 minor league batters in 2024 and another 117 in 2025.

FOR THE MAPLE LEAF

Wilkinson really opened the eyes of the baseball world when he got the call from Baseball Canada’s Greg Hamilton to represent his country at the World Baseball Classic this spring.

With several young arms unable to attend for a variety of reasons, the 6-foot-1, 250-pound prospect made the most of the opportunities handed to him over two games.

In particular, he struck out MLB superstars Cal Raleigh and Bryce Harper during Canada’s quarterfinal loss to the United States.

From there, it was a whirlwind as he started the year with Cleveland’s double-A team, the Akron Rubberducks, picking up a 1-2 record with a 1.59 earned run average in six starts before the trade to San Francisco.

He stayed in double-A, recording two more wins with the Richmond Flying Squirrels before a promotion to triple-A Sacramento, where he put together a 3-4 record and a 5.15 ERA in 10 starts.

GETTING THE CALL

With the Giants pitching staff facing struggles and injury troubles, they started looking down their depth charts for some quality left-handed options.

Wilkinson’s name stood out to manager Tony Vitello.

“He’s an exciting prospect for a lot of reasons – one being that he’s not scared,” the skipper told reporters. “He gets a chance to prove that at the ultimate level, or the level that, if you are scared, you’re going to get exposed.”

The team selected Wilkinson’s contract and added him to the 40-man roster on Wednesday ahead of his start.

Sergent says his former pupil is the “ultimate competitor” and is always thinking about the team first, which made him a perfect candidate for a call-up.

“He has been doubted his whole life with never making the Junior National Team as a youth and being overlooked in the WBC until he faced Team USA,” said the former minor leaguer.

“He is incredible – he has a huge chip on his shoulder to prove to everyone outside of the Dawgs organization that he deserves to be there.”

SOLID FIRST IMPRESSION

Wilkinson took a first step towards proving he belongs in the bigs full-time with his short and efficient debut outing.

It all started by inducing a fly out from Guardians leadoff hitter Steven Kwan, before getting Jose Ramirez to pop out to second and Nathaniel Lowe to ground out to short for a 1-2-3 first inning.

The second inning started with a first pitch single from Angel Martinez then another pop out from Travis Bazzana, a ground out from Angel Genao and one more pop out off the bat of Petey Halpin.

Wilkinson’s night was then done, where he saw seven batters, allowing no runs on one hit, no walks and no strikeouts in just 25 pitches.

The broadcast cameras kept panning back to his family in attendance, cheering as loud as they could for every out.

“Unbelievable,” his mom, Tanis, said in an MLB.com article. “He worked so hard to get here. He pitched well. I wish he could have stayed in longer. But we do understand there’s a plan. Whatever is going to happen is going to happen. We’re just proud that he got this opportunity – and against Cleveland, right?”

His coaches add they are “pumped” and “so happy for Tug” as he gets to show the world what he can do.

Whether Wilkinson has earned a longer stay with the Giants or will soon be sent back to triple-A is to be determined, but he certainly made an impression in his debut.

And in classic Tugboat fashion, his modesty and attitude didn’t waver post-game.

“I just want to help the team win as much as I can,” Wilkinson said. “It doesn’t matter how I do it or which role I have, I’m just happy to be here.”

An interesting footnote to his debut was that another Alberta product, Edmonton’s Erik Sabrowski, also made an appearance in the game, striking out two in a scoreless inning of relief for the Guardians.

August 19, 2026

Official Ottawa Titans News Release

Ottawa, Ont. - The Ottawa Titans earned their third win in a row, defeating the Mississippi Mud Monsters 8-1 on Wednesday, powered by stellar pitching and two jacks off the bat of rookie Caleb Burr.

Yohanse Morel opened for the third time this year, going two sharp innings. He allowed just one hit and no runs.

The curveball was working for Dominic Puccetti, as he picked up his first win since his return to the Titans. He tossed 3 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing just three hits, walking one, and punching out six. It was Puccetti's first appearance all season in which he allowed no runs.

The bats came alive in the fifth as the Titans put up five runs. With two runners on, AJ Wright smacked a two-run double to left-centre, bringing his RBI total to a team-high 70 on the year. Taylor Wright (North Vancouver, B.C.) doubled to bring in a run, and Caleb Burr launched a two-run shot to right to make it 5-0.

Ted Stuka held down the fort, going one and two-thirds scoreless innings of relief.

The Mud Monsters avoided a shutout as Brayland Skinner got the visitors on the board with an RBI groundout in the eighth off Christian Scafidi.

In the home half, Jackie Urbaez sent a sacrifice fly to make it 6-1, and Burr launched his second two-run shot of the day to extend the Titans' lead to 8-1.

Over the past two games, Burr has gone 6-for-10 with three long balls and nine RBIs.

Brett Garcia closed out the game, going three up, three down with two punchouts.

Jackson Smith provided five innings of work for the Mud Monsters, allowing five runs on six hits, walking six, and striking out seven.

The Titans pitching staff combined to allow just five hits and issued two walks in the contest.

Burr had another strong night, going 2-for-5 with a pair of two-run shots. AJ Wright went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a pair of walks. Myles Smith picked up three free passes, and Kaiden Cardoso (Abbotsford, B.C.) picked up two.

With the win and a Sussex County loss to Québec, the Titans' magic number to clinch a playoff spot is eight.

The Titans continue a six-game series with game three against the Mississippi Mud Monsters on Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. at Ottawa Stadium.

August 19, 2026

OTTAWA – Baseball Canada’s final championship weekend of the summer will feature the 13U National Championship, the Ray Carter Cup, Men’s National Championship, and the 16U Girls National Championship all running from August 20–23.

13U National Championship

Woodstock, Ontario, is set to showcase some of the nation’s top 13U talent as 12 teams representing eight provinces will face off on Southside Park in pursuit of a national title.

This year’s competition begins Thursday with round-robin play continuing Friday. Quarter-finals follow on Saturday, August 22, setting the stage for Championship Sunday, highlighted by placement games, semi-finals, and the two medal matchups that will determine Canada’s next 13U National Champions.

A year ago, Ontario (2) captured gold with a 12-2 victory over British Columbia, who settled for silver, while Ontario (1) earned bronze.

13U National Championship Streams

Schedule & Results

Full list of past Champions can be found here.
 

Ray Carter Cup (15U)

Summerside, Prince Edward Island, will welcome athletes from all 10 provinces for the Ray Carter Cup, as VIV Field and Legends Field play host to the nation’s best at the 15U level.

The event will follow a two-pool round-robin format through Saturday, August 22, with three teams advancing directly to the semi-finals and one quarter-final matchup deciding the final spot. From there, Championship Sunday will feature placement games, semi-finals, and the medal contests to crown this year’s Ray Carter Cup champions.

Last summer, British Columbia struck gold, Ontario took silver, and Québec claimed bronze. 

15U Ray Carter Cup streams.

Schedule & Results

Full list of past Champions can be found here.

Men’s National Championship

Miramichi, New Brunswick, will host the 2026 Men’s National Championship as 10 teams representing nine provinces take the field at Ironmen Field and Waldo Henderson Field from August 20 to August 23.

The tournament will feature round-robin play leading into Saturday’s quarter-finals. Championship Sunday will close the competition with semi-finals, placement games, and the medal games.

At the 2025 edition, New Brunswick captured gold, while Québec took home silver and Saskatchewan earned bronze.

Watch Live

• Ironmen Field Streams  

• Waldo Henderson Field Streams 

Schedule & Results

Full list of past Champions can be found here.

16U Girls National Championship

Athletes from all 10 provinces are heading to Moncton, New Brunswick for the 2026 16U Girls National Championship at CN Field 8 and 9 to fight for the title of National Champion.

The event will follow a two-pool round-robin format through Saturday, August 22, with one quarter-final matchup deciding the final spot. From there, Championship Sunday will include placement games, semi-finals, and the medal contests to crown this year’s 16U Girls National Champion.

Last year’s event held historic weight as the championship was held as part of the Canada Games for the first time in the history of the games. Ontario captured the first ever gold medal, with Alberta landing the silver and British Columbia earning the Bronze.

16U Girls National Championship Streams

Schedule & Results

Full list of past Champions can be found here. 

August 19, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

Some Canadian baseball notes from Tuesday:

Beck promoted to High-A by Braves

After batting .409 with 18 hits in 11 games with the Atlanta Braves’ Low-A Augusta GreenJackets, Carter Beck (Carnduff, Sask.) was promoted to the High-A Rome Emperors on Tuesday.

Batting leadoff and playing centre field, the 21-year-old Canuck went 2-for-4 with two singles and an RBI in the Emperors’ 5-4 win over the Texas Rangers’ High-A Hub City Spartanburgers last night.

Selected 26th overall in the MLB draft in July, Beck was the first Canadian chosen.

The 5-foot-11, 206-pound outfielder and Team Saskatchewan grad rocketed up the draft rankings after his outstanding junior season with the Indiana State Sycamores in which he batted .346 with 17 home runs and 59 RBIs in 57 games. He also had 12 stolen bases.

Flewelling goes deep again

Catcher Nathan Flewelling (Innisfail, Alta.) belted his 21st home run of the season for the Tampa Bay Rays’ High-A Bowling Green Hot Rods on Tuesday. It was a solo shot in the first inning in the Hot Rods’ 6-4 loss to the Greensboro Grasshoppers.

Flewelling is tied for second among Canadians (with Charles Davalan (St-Bruno-De-Montarville, Que.), in the Dodgers’ organization) in the affiliated minor league ranks in home runs this season. Only Braves’ prospect Eric Hartman (St. Albert, Alta.) has more with 24.

A Junior National Team alum, the 19-year-old Flewelling owns a .242/.367/.460 slash line and an .827 OPS in 98 games for the Hot Rods this season.

On July 12, he homered for the American League in the MLB Futures Game and was named MVP of the contest.

The 6-foot-2, 200-pound slugger is in his second season in the Rays’ organization after being chosen in the third round of the 2024 MLB draft by them.

Lascelles registers three hits in pro debut

San Diego Padres infield prospect Elliot Lascelles (Toronto, Ont.) had three hits for the class-A Lake Elsinore Storm in his pro debut yesterday.

The left-handed hitting infielder had two singles, a triple and a stolen base in the Storm’s 9-2 loss to the San Jose Giants.

Chosen in the second round (60th overall) by the Padres in the MLB draft in July, Lascelles signed with the club on July 27.

The 18-year-old infielder honed his skills with the Toronto Mets and the Junior National Team prior to making his pro debut.

Quantrill shines, boosts Rangers into last AL Wild Card spot

Right-hander Cal Quantrill (Port Hope, Ont.) started and tossed seven scoreless innings to lead the Texas Rangers to a 5-0 win over the Washington Nationals at Globe Life Field on Tuesday.

The victory boosted the Rangers’ record to 62-64 and into the third and final American League Wild Card spot.

The win was Quantrill’s fifth of the season and it lowered his ERA to 3.13. He threw 61 of his 91 pitches for strikes.

It also marked the fourth consecutive start in which Quantrill has hurled at least five innings and permitted one earned run or less.

In total, the Ontario Terriers and Junior National Team grad has appeared in 26 games (nine starts) for the Rangers’ this season, his eighth in the big leagues.

Cruz outrighted by Tigers

Toronto-born outfielder Trei Cruz was outrighted to the Detroit Tigers’ triple-A Toledo Mud Hens on Tuesday.

This came two days after he was designated for assignment by the club.

The 28-year-old Cruz made his MLB debut with the Tigers on June 19. He went hitless in five at bats in three big league games before being returned to triple-A.

With the Mud Hens this season, Cruz has batted .230 with two home runs and 27 RBIs in 70 games.

The son of former Blue Jay Jose Cruz Jr., Cruz was taken in the third round of the 2021 MLB draft by the Tigers.

After some early struggles, he enjoyed a breakout year with the Mud Hens last season when he batted .279 and had a .411 on-base percentage with 13 home runs, 17 stolen bases and 102 walks.

Wilkinson expected to make MLB debut today

Left-hander Matt Wilkinson (Ladner, B.C.) is expected to be officially called up by the San Francisco Giants to make his MLB debut against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field today.

Nicknamed “Tugboat,” the 6-foot-1, 250-pound left-hander has posted a combined 6-6 record with a 3.40 ERA with 96 strikeouts in 90 innings between the double-A and triple-A levels in the Giants and Guardians organizations this season.

Most recently he had a 3-4 record and a 5.15 ERA in 10 starts for the Giants’ triple-A Sacramento River Cats.

On May 9, the Guardians traded Wilkinson, along with the 29th overall pick in this year’s draft, to the Giants for catcher Patrick Bailey.

The Dawgs Academy alum was selected in the 10th round of the 2023 MLB draft by the Guardians.

In total, in parts of four pro seasons, he owns an 18-21 record and a 3.10 ERA in 70 appearances (69 starts). He has 390 strikeouts in 313 2/3 innings.

When Wilkinson makes his MLB debut, he’ll become the fifth Canadian to debut this year, joining Eric Cerantola (Oakville, Ont.) with the Kansas City Royals, Cruz with the Tigers, Adam Macko (Stony Plain, Alta.) with the Toronto Blue Jays and Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.) with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Per Canadian baseball historian Tyler Partridge, Wilkinson is set to become the first Canadian to play for the Giants since left-hander Ken MacKenzie (Gore Bay, Ont.) in 1964.

August 18, 2026

By Jason Young

Winnipeg Goldeyes

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Centre fielder Noah Marcelo homered twice as part of a five-hit performance Tuesday evening as the Winnipeg Goldeyes defeated the Sioux Falls Canaries 9-6.

Winnipeg opened the scoring in the top of the second inning. Marcelo led off with a double to left field, while third baseman Keshawn Lynch and catcher Raphaël Pelletier (Repentigny, Que.) each drew a walk. With the bases loaded and two out, second baseman Peyton Holt walked to force Marcelo home and give the Goldeyes a 1-0 lead.

The Goldeyes added two runs in the third. First baseman Ramón Bramasco and shortstop Adam Hall (London, Ont.) singled before Marcelo loaded the bases with a base hit to centre field. Lynch followed with a single to right that brought Bramasco and Hall home to make it 3-0.

Winnipeg broke the game open with four runs in the fourth inning. Holt doubled to centre and scored on Hall’s single to right. Marcelo then doubled to left, driving in Bramasco and Hall, before scoring on a wild pitch to increase the lead to 7-0.

Sioux Falls got on the board in the bottom half when Trevor Achenbach hit a two-run home run to left field. Marcelo answered in the sixth with a solo shot to centre, giving Winnipeg an 8-2 advantage.

The Canaries chipped away with two runs in the bottom of the sixth. TJ Racherbaumer doubled home Michael Curialle, and Joe Vos singled in Anthony Hall to make it 8-4. Sioux Falls pulled to within two in the seventh when Jabari Henry hit a ground-rule double that scored Josh Rehwaldt before coming home on a wild pitch.

Marcelo provided the Goldeyes with an insurance run in the eighth, belting his second home run of the night to left field for the final 9-6 margin. He finished 5-for-6 with two doubles, two home runs, four runs and four runs batted in. Marcelo now leads Winnipeg with 76 RBIs, while his 15 home runs rank second on the club.

Right-hander Landen Bourassa (Lethbridge, Alta.) worked 5 2/3 innings, allowing four runs on seven hits while striking out seven and walking two. Sage Ferguson pitched a scoreless eighth before Derrick Cherry struck out two in a perfect ninth inning.

Christian Edwards allowed seven runs on eight hits over four innings for Sioux Falls. He walked six and struck out four.

Holt, whom the Goldeyes signed earlier Tuesday after he appeared in 12 games for the Kansas City Monarchs earlier this season, went 1-for-3 with a double, two walks, a run scored, and a stolen base.

Kansas City defeated the Lincoln Saltdogs 3-2 Tuesday, meaning the Monarchs maintain a half-game lead over Winnipeg in the West Division.

The series continues Wednesday at 6:35 p.m. Left-hander Ryo Kohigashi is scheduled to start for Winnipeg, while Sioux Falls will counter with right-hander Nicholai Arbach.

August 18, 2026

By Mark Whicker

Canadian Baseball Network

Like Lou Gehrig and Dr. Alois Alzheimer, Tommy John will always be associated with his condition.

He didn’t discover Tommy John surgery, the way Alzheimer discovered a particular form of dementia, and he wasn’t a helpless victim of ALS the way Gehrig was. In fact, he was unconscious, on the operating table, when Dr. Frank Jobe looked at John’s left elbow and realized he had to do something unprecedented to save John’s pitching career. But John’s life wasn’t at stake. Without the operation, he would have quietly gone home to Terre Haute, Ind. to begin his second life, the way most injured pitchers did.

When John awakened from the surgery in September of 1974, he was puzzled to see his right hand in wraps. Jobe had taken a tendon from that right hand and used it as a replacement for the one in the left elbow that was shattered. There had been transplants to the legs of polio patients, but Jobe was the first to attach the tendon to an elbow. There was no manual for this, and not much confidence either. But John had already given something more valuable than his elbow. He had given Jobe his faith.

John, who called himself “the eternal optimist,” did not pitch again until April of 1976, when he went five innings for the Dodgers against the Atlanta Braves. He pitched 14 years after the operation and didn’t retire until he was 46. He completed 101 games, post-op, and won 20 or more games three times.

John ended with 288 wins, most of anyone in the modern era who isn’t in the Hall of Fame, with the exception of Roger Clemens. We know why the voters and the secretive Veterans Committee have rejected Clemens, as lame as those reasons are. We have no idea why John was on the outside looking in, and died that way on Sunday, at the age of 83.

The John/Jobe collaboration was the equivalent of flying without instruments. Jobe privately thought John had a one percent chance of pitching again, and he warned the pitcher that he was going beyond his empirical knowledge. John’s elbow betrayed him on the night of July 17, 1974, when he threw a pitch to Montreal’s Hal Breeden in Dodger Stadium and felt that his arm had literally left his body. Incredulous, he tried another pitch and the same thing happened, and he walked off the mound.

John later said he had originally hurt his arm when he was 13, when he joined a Babe Ruth League, where the distance to the plate increased from 45 feet to 60. He estimated later that he took 40 cortisone injections between 1963 and the night he faced Hal Breeden.

John tried to rush the recovery process, upping his running to 10 miles a day. But as the elbow improved, he began to lose feeling between his fingers, which was too close for comfort among Dodger fans who remembered Sandy Koufax. When he first got hurt, he had promised that he would pitch again before his wife Sally gave birth to their first daughter. That due date was Sept. 10. It came and went, and Tamara was walking by the time John competed again.

That was the first shot in a medical revolution that baseball had never seen before. Over 2,600 major league players, mostly pitchers, have had Tommy John surgery. Most of them have regained velocity and command. Chris Sale, Sandy Alcantara, Justin Verlander, Tarik Skubal and Jacob deGrom are among Tommy John patients who won Cy Young Awards. Four days before John died, Cincinnati’s Hunter Greene became the 41st player this season to get his Tommy John badge. But, over the years, more amateur, high school, college and minor league pitchers have gotten their surgery, too. The Dodgers’ Hong-Chih Kuo had the operation four times.

Think of the literal centuries of extra major league service time that John and Jobe created for those who followed. Think of the literal billions of dollars in salary that those pitchers commanded. Because of the Tommy John safety net, young pitchers continue to throw with blind ambition, using maximum effort to make the radar gun dance in a scout’s hand. The more that happens, the more the shoulders and elbows rebel, and the more Tommy John operations become necessary. You can measure John’s impact in the catamarans that sit on the docks of the orthopedists. Maybe he can make their Hall of Fame someday.

John lived an eventful life, and not all the events were kind. As a high school valedictorian in Terre Haute, he was prohibited from giving a graduation speech because of a stuttering problem. In 1981, his son Travis, at age 2, fell out of a window at a New Jersey beach house and was in a coma for two weeks. He recovered in time to throw out the first pitch at a World Series game, and Tommy and Sally wrote a book together and were briefly America’s most beloved couple, but, later on, they divorced. A son, Taylor, was an accomplished stage presence as a kid, singing in “Les Miserables” on Broadway, and his recorded version of the Star-Spangled Banner was played at ballparks for years. Taylor died, at 28, after he overdosed on prescription drugs. John’s final years were devoted to a fight against bladder cancer.

Someday the doctors will find a way to discover CTE in a football player’s brain before he dies. Someday the medical profession will quit finding these obliques and sports hernias that have come out of the blue to fill up the injured lists. And someday baseball might stumble upon the answer to why pitchers work less and get injured more. Tommy John and Frank Jobe, who died in 2014, can rest peacefully, having done all they could.

The Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Academy unveiled the final list of players that have been selected to participate in the Canadian Futures Showcase on Monday.

Here is the list (graphics courtesy of the Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Academy):

The Canadian Futures Showcase, which will take place from September 16 to September 20 at Nat Bailey Stadium in Vancouver, B.C., is an annual national amateur baseball showcase hosted by the Blue Jays Baseball Academy.

The goal of the event is to showcase the best amateur baseball players born in Canada, from across the country, with draft and college eligibility.

The event brings together the best Canadian players and gives them the opportunity to compete in front of as many MLB scouts and college recruiters as possible.

August 17, 2026

Official Canadian Baseball League News Release

STRATFORD, ONT. – Gary Thomas, a one-time Intercounty Baseball League star with Stratford who later served as IBL commissioner for four years, died Aug. 15.

He was 89.

Thomas enjoyed success on the mound with his hometown Nationals/Kraven Knits, an Intercounty career that ended in 1972 when he was 35. He threw a two-hit shutout in one of his final starts and was named one of Stratford’s top 20 IBL players at the league’s 100th anniversary celebrations in 2019.

After retiring as a player, Thomas coached the Stratford peewees to a national championship in 1977. That club included third baseman Robert Froese, who later set a single-season IBL hits record of 66 with the Kitchener Panthers in 1984 before later joining the Stratford Hillers.

Thomas returned to the IBL as commissioner from 1998 to 2001, taking the league’s top job after John Coppes’ four-year term ended. When Stratford’s John Kastner became commissioner in 2014, Thomas was one of the first to call and offer advice and encouragement.

“It seems like just a few months ago that Gary was on my front porch getting copies of the IBL 100th anniversary book where we are both mentioned,” Kastner said. “That in itself is an incredible honour. Gary was whip smart, a fantastic husband and father, a great friend, an unflappable leader who acted with principle and wisdom even while those all around him may have been reeling. The world, and especially Stratford, was a richer place because of his presence.”

In accordance with Thomas’s wishes, there will not be a funeral service or visitation, but a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Donations to the Stratford General Hospital Foundation or the Stratford Festival Endowment Foundation can be made as expressions of sympathy.

August 17, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

It’s the single-best week a Canadian hitter has had in the minor leagues this season.

In his first six games with the Arizona Diamondbacks’ double-A Amarillo Sod Poodles, Avery Owusu-Asiedu (Saskatoon, Sask.) had a remarkable 12 hits, five home runs, 12 RBIs, three doubles and a 1.891 OPS.

All of those stats topped Canadians in the affiliated minor league ranks.

For his efforts, Owusu-Asiedu has been named the Canadian Baseball Network’s Minor League Player of the Week (August 11 to August 16).

In his first game with the Sod Poodles last Tuesday, he was the club’s DH and batted cleanup. He didn’t disappoint, finishing 2-for-3 with a solo home run and two RBIs to help his team to a 7-6 win over the Athletics’ Midland RockHounds.

He followed that up with three hits - including two doubles and a home run - and four RBIs in his club’s 11-10 loss to the RockHounds on Wednesday.

The next day, he socked two more home runs in the Sod Poodles’ 8-6 loss. That gave Owusu-Asiedu home runs in his first three games at the double-A level.

That streak continued on Friday when he blasted a solo home run in the seventh inning. He also added a single and knocked in two runs in the Sod Poodles’ 9-7 victory.

His home run streak would end on Saturday, but he still managed a double and two walks in his club’s 10-9 win.

Owusu-Asiedu finished the week with a single in four at bats on Sunday.

Selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the ninth round of the 2023 MLB draft, he spent his first three pro seasons in the Phils’ organization before he was dealt the D-Backs for left-hander Kyle Backhus this past December.

Owusu-Asiedu started the season with the D-Backs’ High-A Hillsboro Hops, batting .202 with 13 home runs and 21 stolen bases in 92 games.

2026 CBN Minor League Player of the Week winners

Opening Day to April 5 - Cal Quantrill (Port Hope, Ont.), Rangers

April 7 to April 12 - Dante Nori (Toronto, Ont.), Phillies

April 14 to April 19- Matt Wilkinson (Surrey, B.C.), Guardians

April 21 to April 26 - Eric Hartman (St. Albert, Alta.), Braves

April 28 to May 3 - Jonah Tong (Markham, Ont.), Mets

May 5 to May 10 - Jordan Woods (Oakville, Ont.), Royals

May 12 to May 17 - Emilien Pitre (Repentigny, Que.), Rays

May 19 to May 24 - Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.), Diamondbacks

May 26 to May 31 - Matt Wilkinson (Surrey, B.C.), Giants

June 2 to June 7 - Owen Gregg (Oakville, Ont.), Blue Jays

June 9 to June 14 - Tyler Boudreau (Middle Sackville, N.S.), Yankees

June 16 to June 21 - Abraham Toro (Longueuil, Que.), Royals

June 23 to June 28 - Tyson Moran (Wingham, Ont.), Royals

July 7 to July 12 - Tom Poole (Calgary, Alta.), Rays

July 14 to July 19 - Cedric De Grandpre (Saint-Simon-de-Bagot, Que.), Braves

July 21 to July 26 - Charles Davalan, (St-Bruno-De-Montarville, Que.), Dodgers

July 28 to Aug. 2 - Emilien Pitre (Repentigny, Que.), Rays (and now Mets)

Aug. 4 to Aug. 9 - Connor Caskenette (Duncan, B.C.), Marlins

Aug. 11 to Aug. 16 - Avery Owusu-Asiedu (Saskatoon, Sask.), Arizona Diamondbacks

Top Canadian Minor League Batters (August 11 to August 16)

Top Canadian Minor League Pitchers (August 11 to August 16)

August 17, 2026

Baseball Canada

FORT MCMURRAY, ALTA. – Ontario completed a perfect week in Fort McMurray with an 11–1 victory over Alberta in Sunday evening’s gold-medal game at Legacy Dodge Field to capture the 2026 18U National Championship.

The Mississauga Tigers HPP, representing Ontario, ended the championship in walk-off fashion when the final run pushed the lead to 10 and brought the game to an early conclusion under the tournament’s mercy rule.

The victory capped a 6–0 tournament for Ontario, which scored 56 runs and allowed just seven over six games.

Ontario entered Championship Sunday as the top seed from Pool A after victories over New Brunswick, British Columbia, host Alberta and Alberta. Waiting in the semifinal was the tournament’s only other undefeated team, Prince Edward Island.

Ontario limited P.E.I. to one run in a 4–1 victory to advance to the final, while Alberta defeated British Columbia 10–2 in the other semifinal.

That set up a rematch of Saturday’s preliminary-round meeting, which Ontario had won 4–2.

With the national title on the line, Ontario left little doubt in the second meeting, building an 11–1 advantage before the mercy-rule walk-off secured gold.

The championship moves Ontario back to the top of the 18U national podium after earning silver in 2025, while Alberta completed the tournament with a national silver medal.

British Columbia rebounds for bronze

British Columbia bounced back from its semifinal loss to finish the championship on the podium, defeating Prince Edward Island 8–5 in Sunday’s bronze-medal game.

B.C. reached Championship Sunday after going 2–2 in preliminary play, with both of its victories decided by a single run. Representing B.C., the Victoria Mariners opened the tournament with a 1–0 win over Alberta before edging the host Fort McMurray Oil Giants 7–6 in extra innings.

After falling 10–2 to Alberta in the semifinal, British Columbia responded in the bronze-medal game to secure its second consecutive national podium finish following gold in 2025.

Prince Edward Island finished fourth after one of the strongest preliminary rounds of the tournament. P.E.I. went 4–0 in Pool B, including a 13–1 victory over Manitoba to close preliminary play, before falling to Ontario in the semifinal and B.C. in the bronze-medal game.

Final Placement Games

Manitoba finished fifth after defeating New Brunswick in Sunday afternoon’s placement matchup. New Brunswick had closed preliminary play with consecutive victories, including a 5–4 extra-inning win over British Columbia and a 9–0 shutout of the host Oil Giants. Manitoba finished sixth after its championship hopes ended with a 7–6 extra-inning quarterfinal loss to Alberta on Saturday night.

Saskatchewan secured seventh place with a 10–2 victory over the host Fort McMurray Oil Giants. Saskatchewan finished the tournament with three victories, while the hosts completed the championship in eighth.

Nova Scotia closed the week with a 27–2 victory over Newfoundland and Labrador in the ninth-place matchup. Newfoundland and Labrador, which had opened the tournament with a 5–3 win over Nova Scotia, finished 10th.

Final Standings

1. Ontario – Gold

2. Alberta – Silver

3. British Columbia – Bronze

4. Prince Edward Island

5. Manitoba

6. New Brunswick

7. Saskatchewan

8. Host Alberta

9. Nova Scotia

10. Newfoundland and Labrador

August 17, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

Okotoks Dawgs grad Matt Wilkinson will be called up by the San Francisco Giants.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan was the first to report the transaction just after noon E.T. on Monday.

Matt "Tugboat" Wilkinson is going to THE SHOW!

Congratulations, Tugboat! pic.twitter.com/GjUkpB6Qmv

— Okotoks Dawgs Academy (@DawgsAcademy) August 17, 2026

Nicknamed “Tugboat,” the 6-foot-1, 250-pound left-hander has posted a combined 6-6 record with a 3.40 ERA with 96 strikeouts in 90 innings between the double-A and triple-A levels in the Giants and Cleveland Guardians organizations this season.

Most recently he had a 3-4 record and a 5.15 ERA in 10 starts for the Giants’ triple-A Sacramento River Cats.

On May 9, the Cleveland Guardians traded Wilkinson (Ladner, B.C.), along with the 29th overall pick in this year’s draft, to the Giants for catcher Patrick Bailey.

In six starts for the Guardians’ double-A Akron RubberDucks prior to the trade, the 23-year-old southpaw possessed a 1.59 ERA and struck out 36 batters in 28 1/3 innings.

This followed his outstanding performance for Canada at the World Baseball Classic in which he didn’t allow a hit, while fanning four, in 2 2/3 innings in two outings.

Tugboat is taking his act to The City by the Bay!🚢

Congratulations to Vancouver, B.C.’s Matt “Tugboat” Wilkinson, who has been promoted to the big leagues by the San Francisco Giants!

🇨🇦⚾️#BaseballCanada | #MLBCanadians pic.twitter.com/Ea3K7DQaaE

— Baseball Canada 🇨🇦⚾️ (@baseballcanada) August 17, 2026

The Dawgs Academy alum was selected in the 10th round of the 2023 MLB draft by the Guardians.

In 2024, Wilkinson was named the Canadian Baseball Network’s Wayne Norton Award winner, as top Canuck pitcher in the affiliated minor league ranks. With the Guardians’ Low-A Lynchburg Hillcats and High-A Lake County Captains that season, he posted a combined 1.90 ERA in 24 starts, spanning 118 2/3 innings. He also struck out 174 batters, which were the second-most by any pitcher in the affiliated minor league ranks and topped minor league pitchers in strikeout percentage (38%) and was second in ERA and batting average against (.169).

In total, in parts of four pro seasons, he owns an 18-21 record and a 3.10 ERA in 70 appearances (69 starts). He has 390 strikeouts in 313 2/3 innings.

When Wilkinson makes his MLB debut, he’ll become the fifth Canadian to debut this year, joining Eric Cerantola (Oakville, Ont.) with the Kansas City Royals, Trei Cruz (Toronto, Ont.) with the Detroit Tigers, Adam Macko (Stony Plain, Alta.) with the Toronto Blue Jays and Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.) with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Per Canadian baseball historian Tyler Partridge, Wilkinson will become the first Canadian to play for the Giants since left-hander Ken MacKenzie (Gore Bay, Ont.) in 1964.

By Rich Leitch

Canadian Premier Baseball League

The Canadian Premier Team that will represent the Canadian Premier Baseball League (CPBL) at Perfect Game’s World Wood Bat Association (WWBA) Tournament, October 9–13 in Jupiter, Florida, has officially been finalized.

The roster was assembled through an extensive evaluation process that began in May with the CPBL Prospect Game tryouts. Those evaluations, combined with ongoing assessments throughout the regular season, helped identify players for CPBL Prospect Weekend—the final stage of the selection process for one of the most prestigious events on the amateur baseball calendar.

The roster was selected by Perfect Game evaluators in collaboration with the Canadian Premier coaching staff, CPBL executives and MLB scouts.

Entering its fifth year, the Canadian Premier Team has established a strong tradition of competing against elite programs from across North America. The program’s alumni include more than a dozen current professional players and nearly 100 collegiate athletes, highlighting the level of talent and development represented by the CPBL.

This year’s trip will feature three pre-tournament exhibition games, all taking place at the Roger Dean Complex. The Canadian Premier Team will open against Elite Squad, based in Miami, Fla., before facing the Canes National/New York Mets Scout Team and the Kansas City Royals Scout Team.

The PG WWBA Tournament, commonly known as “Jupiter,” is one of the premier showcases for high school baseball talent in North America. This year’s event is expected to attract more than 400 college coaches, MLB scouts and professional baseball executives, providing an exceptional stage for the CPBL’s top players.

The exhibition series, combined with the PG WWBA Tournament, will provide the CPBL’s top 2027 and 2028 players with an opportunity to compete against some of the very best players in their age group from across North America.

The trip represents another important step in the development and exposure of Canadian Premier players as they take on elite competition in front of college and professional evaluators.

For additional information about the tournament, please visit Perfect Game.

“The Canadian Premier Team brings together the very best of the CPBL and puts them in the most challenging and exciting high school baseball tournament in the U.S.,” said Jamie Romak, the Canadian Premier GM. “These players are talented and well prepared for this opportunity, and we look forward to watching them compete. Continued thanks to Perfect Game, CPBL evaluators and the MLB scouts who helped bring this team together.”

August 16, 2026

By Ian Wilson

Western Canadian Baseball League

The Saskatoon Berries have painted the league purple.

The rapid ascent of the Berries in the Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) saw the Saskatchewan squad capture the Harry Hallis Memorial Trophy as champions in just their third season of play.

They secured the title with a two-game sweep over the Sylvan Lake Gulls, which was punctuated with an 11-1 clinching victory at NexGen Patch at Cairns Field in front of a raucous record crowd of 2,579 fans on Sunday.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling,” said outfielder Ethan Murdoch, who was playing his final game of collegiate baseball.

“Just a tonne of emotions, especially for me. You know, this is it. Just this group of guys, I love playing with them all year and it was so much fun.”

Murdoch, the first person to clutch the championship trophy for the Berries, was elated to share the title win with his teammates.

"This group of guys was extremely close to each other and they just wanted to be together as long as they could. It showed the way they played during the playoffs," observed head coach Joe Carnahan.

After eliminating the defending champion Regina Red Sox in three games in the opening round of the 2026 postseason, and dispatching the Moose Jaw Miller Express - the top seed in the East Division - in just two games, the Berries advanced to their first WCBL Championship Series against the Gulls.

The first game of the league final at Gulls Field - a 4-1 win for the Berries over the Gulls - featured phenomenal performances on the bump from Saskatoon starting pitcher Zachary Landreville, as well as relievers Brooks Jones and Wesley Shackelford.

Landreville - a 6-foot-3 righthander from Saint-Jerome, Quebec - was unhittable in the first third of the game and his final line showed 5 2/3 innings of five strikeouts and just one earned run. Sixty of his 86 pitches went for strikes and he allowed only three hits and one walk during the outing.

Things didn't get any easier for Sylvan Lake sluggers after Landreville's night came to an end.

Brooks Jones, a lefty from Lawrence, Kansas, took over and recorded three strikeouts in 1 1/3 innings. The 6-foot-3 southpaw registered 19 strikes in his 25 pitches and helped quiet the crowd of 1,967 fans.

From there, Wesley Shackelford cruised through the final two innings, allowing no hits, no walks and no runs to close out the victory. The Odessa College righthander from Belleville, Texas has put together an outstanding postseason for Saskatoon. In his nine innings, Shackelford has one win, three saves, 14 strikeouts and zero runs against in four appearances this August.

Offensively, the Berries made the most of their five hits. Outfielder Ethan Murdoch had two of those knocks, including a home run and two runs scored, while catcher Aiden Kilshaw had two runs batted in (RBI).

For the Gulls, the nerves were on full display. Starting pitcher Reece Hemmerling allowed three earned runs over 4 1/3 innings and hit five Saskatoon batters.

The defence behind Hemmerling also struggled, committing three errors during the game.

Sylvan Lake was unable to muster much at the plate. Third baseman Johnboy Rittenhouse managed two hits and outfielder Dominic Giusti had one hit and one run.

When the action shifted from Alberta to Saskatchewan, the Berries got on the bats early in the second game, scoring one run in the first inning when leadoff hitter Brock Laird came around to score after hitting a single.

Two more runs followed for Saskatoon in the second inning, before the Gulls answered with a run to make the score 3-1 for the Berries in the third.

A pair of scoreless frames followed and Saskatoon struck for five runs in the sixth, including a three-run home run off the bat of Josh Henson.

From there, the Berries cruised to an 11-1 triumph by adding three runs in the late stages of the contest.

The Gulls committed three errors and left nine runners on base, while Saskatoon continued its dominant run of pitching. Merek Yeager went six innings in the start and allowed seven hits and one earned run, while striking out four Sylvan Lake batters.

Jones struck out five and permitted no runs in his two innings, while local reliever Colin Plain struck out the side in the ninth inning, setting off a dogpile celebration around the mound after Owen Coumont struck out looking.

The Berries went 6-1 in the postseason and scored 44 runs, while giving up just 21 against.

Shackelford was named the WCBL Postseason Most Valuable Player award after logging nine innings out of the bullpen and striking out 14 batters. He allowed just one hit, one walk and no runs while hurling 127 pitches over four games. Shackelford picked up one win and three saves along the way.

“The bond that we had just straight off the bat was incredible,” Shackelford said. “I just knew that when we got things going, it would result in something like this.”

The Berries got other strong pitching performances from starters Landreville (11 2/3 innings, one win, 15 Ks, 1.20 ERA) and Yeager (11 innings, 1-1 record, eight strikeouts, 3.82 ERA).

Shackelford's setup man, Jones, was also untouchable. In 7 1/3 innings, he had 12 strikeouts and one win while allowing no runs against.

At the plate, the Berries got solid hitting from Nick Stinson (1.143 OPS, nine hits, six RBIs), Brock Laird (13 hits, five RBIs), Ethan Murdoch (three homers, nine hits, six RBIs), Aiden Kilshaw (nine hits, 10 RBI, seven runs) and Nathan Houston (nine hits, five RBI, five runs, four stolen bases).

August 16, 2026

Official Ottawa Titans News Release

Sauget, Ill. - Needing a spark, the Ottawa Titans rallied with a pair of huge offensive innings to avoid the sweep with a 15-5 victory over the Gateway Grizzlies on Sunday afternoon.

Down 1-0 early after a first-inning solo homer from Victor Castillo - the Titans put up five runs on rookie left-hander Blake Peyton to take a 5-1 lead. Taking advantage of five walks, the Titans sent 10 to the plate - as a fielder's choice, a wild pitch, an error and a two-run single from Hunter Stokely put the visitors ahead.

Kevin Miranda kept the Titans in the game with 2 2/3 innings in his sixth start of the year. The Grizzlies connected for a pair of solo homers in the bottom of the third from Dale Thomas and Darryl Lee to cut into the deficit to 5-3.

Miranda was taken out of the game in the third, allowing three runs on six hits, striking out two. The three homers allowed by the former Blue Jays farmhand were the first of their kind since May 29 at Down East.

Holding onto a slim margin, the Titans erupted for an eight-run frame in the fifth to blow it open. Stokely ripped an opposite-field three-run homer, AJ Wright posted his first hit of the series with an RBI double and Myles Smith cashed in with his second grand slam of the season. Posting their fourth eight-run inning of the season, the Titans were up big at 10-3.

Michael Vilchez gave the Titans 2 1/3 innings of one-run ball to earn his second win of the trip. Ted Stuka fanned two in a clean inning of work. Liu Fuenmayor surrendered one run in two innings of relief while Heitor Tokar finished off the day with a scoreless ninth.

For good measure in the ninth, Taylor Wright (North Vancouver, B.C.) blasted a two-run homer for his team-leading 17th of the year to finish the scoring. The Canadian finished the road trip with four homers and now is five away from tying a single-season record.

Myles Smith went 3-for-5 with a double, grand slam and four RBIs. Hunter Stokely posted a three-hit game by going 3-for-5 with a homer and five driven in. AJ Wright brought home one as part of a three-hit game, posting his 500th career professional hit in the process. Caleb Burr had a multi-hit effort for the second consecutive day.

After an off day on Monday, the Titans head home for a six-game series with the opener against the Mississippi Mud Monsters on Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. at Ottawa Stadium.

August 16, 2026

By Jason Young

Winnipeg Goldeyes

WINNIPEG, MAN. – The Winnipeg Goldeyes scored six unanswered runs over the final three innings to rally past the Sioux City Explorers 6-2 Sunday afternoon before 6,825 fans at Blue Cross Park.

Sioux City opened the scoring in the top of the first inning when Henry George hit a solo home run to right field.

The Explorers doubled their advantage in the fourth. Alberto Osuna singled and D’Shawn Knowles doubled before Jackson Van De Brake lifted a sacrifice fly to centre field that scored Osuna and made it 2-0.

Winnipeg broke through in the sixth. Left fielder Jiandido Tromp drew a leadoff walk and catcher Raphaël Pelletier (Repentigny, Que.) moved him to second with a sacrifice bunt. Designated hitter Max Murphy then lined a single to right field that brought Tromp home and cut the deficit to 2-1.

The Goldeyes took control with a three-run seventh. Third baseman Ramón Bramasco walked and stole second before centre fielder Noah Marcelo doubled to left field to tie the game. Second baseman Keshawn Lynch followed with an RBI triple to right that gave Winnipeg its first lead of the afternoon, and Pelletier singled home Lynch to make it 4-2.

Winnipeg added a pair of insurance runs in the eighth. Murphy led off with his second double of the game before shortstop Ray-Patrick Didder doubled him home. Right fielder Adam Hall (London, Ont.) later singled to right field to score Didder and increase the lead to 6-2.

Left-hander Kevin Vaupel turned in six solid innings for Winnipeg, allowing two runs on four hits while striking out five and walking one.

James Colyer followed with a scoreless seventh inning, allowing one hit and striking out one. Eli Saul (Vancouver, B.C.) and Derrick Cherry each worked a scoreless frame to close out the victory.

Zach Willeman allowed three runs on 10 hits over 6 1/3 innings for Sioux City. He struck out three and walked four.

Murphy led Winnipeg’s 15-hit attack by going four-for-five with two doubles, a run scored, and an RBI. Hall went 3-for-5 with an RBI and two stolen bases, while Bramasco reached base five times with two hits and three walks. Didder had two hits, including an RBI double.

The victory allowed Winnipeg to salvage the finale of the three-game series after Sioux City won the first two contests.

The Goldeyes are off Monday before opening a three-game series against the Sioux Falls Canaries Tuesday at 6:35 p.m. C.T. in Sioux Falls. Right-hander Landen Bourassa (Lethbridge, Alta.) is scheduled to start for Winnipeg, while the Canaries will counter with right-hander Christian Edwards.

August 15, 2026

Official Ottawa Titans News Release

Sauget, Ill. - Despite falling behind 5-0 after one, the Ottawa Titans mounted a late comeback, but could not climb all the way back in a narrow 6-5 loss to the Gateway Grizzlies on Saturday night.

Coming off a quality outing, right-hander Ky Hampton was hit around the yard in the bottom of the first, allowing five runs on six hits. In total, the Grizzlies sent 10 to the plate in the big inning - with Bryson Horne, Darryl Lee, Jose Alvarez, Sawyer Smith, and Brennan Orf all cashing in runs. The five allowed by Hampton in the opening inning were the most runs surrendered in the first inning by the rookie righty this season.

After retiring the first four in a row to open the game, Grizzlies right-hander Ben Gregory walked Hunter Stokely with one out in the second and left the game due to injury. In relief, right-hander Alex Sparks served up an RBI ground-rule double off the bat of Caleb Burr to get the Titans on the board.

In the fifth, Burr's second double of the game came across to score on a Thomas Ferroggiaro groundout, putting the Titans down 5-2.

With the shaky first inning out of the way, Hampton locked in. The Australian gave the Titans six innings - limiting the damage to just an Alvarez sixth-inning solo homer to put the Grizzlies ahead 6-2.

Although taking the loss, Hampton fanned a career-high nine - at one point striking out five in a row. Hampton also allowed just three base runners from innings two through six.

Gaining momentum from their starter, the Titans made things interesting in the seventh - as Taylor Wright (North Vancouver, B.C.) unloaded on a Jake Bockenstedt fastball for a three-run homer to make it a 6-5 game. The 16th homer of the year for the Canadian continues the career year, as he ties Jason Dicochea for the second-most home runs in a single season in franchise history.

Christian Scafidi kept the Titans in the game with a scoreless seventh, leaving a double aboard, and Brett Garcia punched out a pair in a scoreless eighth.

Looking to tie it, the Grizzlies' bullpen shut things down in the late innings, as the Titans left two on in the eighth and the tying run on in the ninth. Matt Hickey retired four of the five batters he faced on strikes to end the contest.

Caleb Burr went 3-for-4 with two doubles and an RBI. Jackie Urbaez singled, walked, and was plunked. The Titans had just seven hits in the game, with five going for extra bases.

The Titans have now lost back-to-back series for the first time since the end of June.

The Titans end a six-game Midwest Conference road trip with the finale of a three-game series against the Gateway Grizzlies on Sunday afternoon at 1:05 p.m. E.T. at Arsenal BG Ballpark in Sauget, Ill. The Titans return home on Tuesday for a six-game series against the Mississippi Mud Monsters.

August 16, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

Some Canadian baseball news and notes:

Romano moves into tie for third on Canadian MLB saves list

As noted by the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, Colorado Rockies closer Jordan Romano (Markham, Ont.) collected his 125th major league save on Wednesday when he pitched a scoreless ninth inning in a Rockies’ 6-4 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks.

That save moved Romano into a tie with longtime Detroit Tigers reliever John Hiller (Toronto, Ont.) for the third-most by a Canadian. Only Eric Gagne (Mascouche, Que.) with 187 saves and John Axford (Port Dover, Ont.) with 144 rank higher.

Since joining the Rockies on July 4, Romano has eight saves in nine opportunities and owns a 3.09 ERA in 12 games.

The 6-foot-5 right-hander started the season with the Los Angeles Angels but he was released on April 27 after posting a 10.13 ERA in 11 appearances.

The 33-year-old Junior National Team grad is in his eighth major league season. His first 105 saves came as a member of the Blue Jays between 2019 and 2024.

Smith continues dominance for Guardians

Speaking of Canadian closers, Cade Smith (Abbotsford, B.C.) continues to excel in the late innings for the Cleveland Guardians.

In his last 15 appearances, he is 1-0 with a 0.55 ERA with five saves and 20 strikeouts in 16 1/3 innings.

His 31 saves this season are the second-most in the majors behind only Tampa Bay Rays closer Bryan Baker who has 34.

Overall in 2026, Smith has a 3-1 record and a 2.30 ERA in 51 appearances. He has struck out 77 batters in 54 2/3 innings and has made himself an early favourite to win the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame’s Tip O’Neill Award, as top Canadian player.

Hicks swinging hot bat for Rays

And speaking of Tip O’Neill Award candidates, Liam Hicks (Toronto, Ont.) belted a three-run home run and added a single and a double for the Rays in their 8-4 win over the Athletics on Wednesday.

Hicks possesses a .300/.465/.600 slash line with two home runs and nine RBIs in 10 games with the Rays since being acquired from the Miami Marlins on Aug. 3.

For the season, the Toronto Mets grad has 16 home runs and 71 RBIs.

So, what’s record for most home runs and RBIs by a Canadian catcher in an MLB season?

They’re both held by Russell Martin (Montreal, Que.). Martin had 23 home runs in 2015 and 87 RBIs in 2007.

And yes, I realize Hicks has also played first base and DH this season, so if he does break Martin’s record, I suppose we will have to apply an asterisk.

Soroka activated by D-Backs

After being activated from the 15-day injured list on Monday, Michael Soroka (Calgary, Alta.) started and tossed 4 1/3 scoreless innings for the Arizona Diamondbacks in their 9-0 win over the Rockies at Chase Field.

Soroka allowed three hits and struck out four in his first start since being sidelined with a glute strain on June 20. He threw 47 of his 77 pitches for strikes.

Soroka’s performance lowered his ERA to 2.92 this season. He is 8-3 and has fanned 83 batters in 86 1/3 innings. Keeping the Canuck righty healthy will be a priority for the D-Backs who currently hold the second Wild-Card spot in the National League.

The 28-year-old Calgary Redbirds and Junior National Team grad is in his seventh major league campaign.

He is scheduled to start again today for the D-Backs.

Bratt shines again for D-Backs

It was back-to-back Canadian starting pitchers for the Diamondbacks this week.

After Soroka started on Monday, it was left-hander Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.) who got the ball on Tuesday and he didn’t disappoint. The Canuck southpaw allowed just two earned runs on four hits in six innings but received a no-decision when the D-Backs lost 3-2 to the Rockies.

Bratt, who permitted just one hit in seven scoreless innings in his previous start, has solidified his spot in the D-Backs’ rotation. In seven starts, he is 1-1 with a 3.74 ERA and has 25 strikeouts in 33 2/3 innings.

Before he was promoted to the big league club for the second time this year on July 12, the 23-year-old Toronto Mets and Junior National Team grad had been excellent for the D-Backs’ triple-A Reno Aces, posting a 2.41 ERA in 13 starts,

Walker made MLB debut 37 years ago

Thirty-seven years ago today, Larry Walker (Maple Ridge, B.C.) was playing in his first major league game and his opponents were already pitching to him like he was Babe Ruth.

At least, that’s what San Francisco Giants first baseman Will Clark told a 22-year-old Walker after he walked for a second time in his big league debut with the Montreal Expos in front of 24,719 fans at Olympic Stadium.

While the Expos had high hopes for Walker, they certainly didn’t expect him to hit like Ruth. But Walker did make his MLB debut on the 41st anniversary of the Bambino’s death and the Yankees legend did wear No. 3 – a digit that Walker was fiercely loyal to. The Maple Ridge, B.C., native wore No. 33, swung the bat three times in the on-deck circle before walking to the plate, would schedule wake-up calls for 33 minutes after the hour and even microwaved his food in increments of 33. So, it was fitting that Walker would walk three times in his first big league contest. He also added a single off Giants starter Mike LaCoss in the seventh inning.

Most importantly for his team, Walker tallied the final run in the Expos’ three-run, eighth-inning in their 4-2, come-from-behind victory.

Walker started in right field and batted sixth behind fellow Canadian Baseball Hall of Famers Tim Raines and Tim Wallach in his debut.

That game turned out to be his only three-walk performance with the Expos that season, and it was one of 30 in his 17-year big league career.

When he suited up for the Expos that game, Walker became the fifth Canadian to play for the club. Claude Raymond (St. Jean, Que.), Bill Atkinson (Chatham, Ont.), Larry Landreth (Stratford, Ont.) and Doug Frobel (Ottawa, Ont.) played for the Expos prior to Walker.

Happy Birthday to Rob Thomson!

Happy 63rd Birthday to former Philadelphia Phillies manager and Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Rob Thomson!

Born in Sarnia, Ont., Thomson grew up in nearby Corunna. A standout player for the Intercounty League’s Stratford Hillers in the early ’80s, Thomson was part of the Canadian squad that competed in the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles when baseball was a demonstration sport. The following year, he was selected by the Detroit Tigers in the 32nd round of MLB draft.

The Canuck catcher/third baseman advanced as high as the class-A level before shifting his focus to coaching in 1988. He served as a minor league coach in the Tigers system for two seasons before joining the New York Yankees in 1990. Over the next 28 seasons, Thomson evolved into one of the most respected coaches in the professional ranks.

From 2009 to 2014, Thomson was the Yankees’ third base coach, and he played an important role on the Bombers’ 2009 World-Series-winning club. He also served two tenures as the club’s bench coach and secured five World Series rings during his lengthy tenure with the franchise.

In December 2017, Thomson was hired by the Phillies to be their bench coach and on June 4, 2022 he was named the Phillies manager. With that, he became the first full-time Canadian big league manager since George Gibson (London, Ont.) with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1934.

After becoming the Phillies’ skipper, Thomson led the team to four straight postseason appearances. He piloted the Phillies to a National League pennant in 2022 and a National League Championship Series berth in 2023. He then guided the Phillies to back-to-back division titles in 2024 and 2025.

Another solid start for Rangers’ Quantrill

Texas Rangers right-hander Cal Quantrill (Port Hope, Ont.) allowed just one run on four hits, while striking out six, in five innings in his start against the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday.

Unfortunately for him, the bullpen coughed up three runs in the sixth and the Rangers lost 5-2.

It was the third consecutive start in which Quantrill has pitched at least five innings and surrendered just one earned run.

Quantrill has done a superb job as a swingman for the Rangers this season. In 25 appearances (eight starts), he has a 3.44 ERA and 49 strikeouts in 70 2/3 innings.

The Ontario Terriers and Junior National Team alum is in his eighth MLB season.

50th anniversary of Gillick coming to Blue Jays

Today represents the 50th anniversary of one of the most important days in Blue Jays’ history.

It was on this date in 1976 that Pat Gillick left his position as coordinator of player development with the Yankees to become the Blue Jays’ vice-president of player personnel.

In his 18 years in Toronto, Gillick transformed an expansion club into World Series champions. With Gillick as GM, the Blue Jays recorded 11 consecutive winning seasons (1983 to 1993), captured five division titles (1985, 1989, 1991-93) and won two World Championships (1992, 1993). For his efforts, he was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 1997.

After his departure from the Blue Jays, Gillick led three more franchises to post-season appearances: Baltimore (1996-97), Seattle (2000-01) and Philadelphia (2007-08). He’s the only GM in major league history to guide four different clubs to the playoffs. When the Phillies won the Fall Classic in 2008, Gillick added a third championship to his resume. Three years later, he was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.

Remembering Raines hitting for the cycle

Thirty-nine years ago today, Tim Raines hit for the cycle when he went 5-for-5 to lead the Expos to a 10-7 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates at Olympic Stadium.

Raines, who also scored four runs, tripled in the first, doubled in the third and seventh and singled in the fifth, before he belted a home run to complete the cycle in the bottom of the eighth.

With this, he became the third Expos player to hit for the cycle after Tim Foli (April 21, 1976) and Chris Speier (July 20, 1978).

Vancouver Canadians’ Drees’ tossed third no-hitter 37 years ago

It was 37 years ago today that left-hander Tom Drees pitched his third no-hitter of the season for the Chicago White Sox triple-A Vancouver Canadians in a 5-0 win over the Las Vegas Stars.

Earlier in the season, Drees had hurled no-hitters in back-to-back starts against the Calgary Cannons (May 23) and the Edmonton Trappers (May 28).

Despite tossing three no-hitters and finishing the season with a 12-11 record and a 3.37 ERA in 26 starts for the Canadians, Drees was not called up by the White Sox that September. He wouldn’t make his big league debut until 1991 when he made four relief appearances with the White Sox.

August 15, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

The Colorado Rockies have outrighted Edouard Julien to the triple-A Albuquerque Isotopes.

The move came after the club designated him for assignment on Tuesday and the 27-year-old Quebec City native cleared waivers.

In 88 games with the Rockies this season, Julien had a .208/.322/.292 slash line with three home runs and 20 RBIs. He collected 39 walks and five stolen bases while serving as the club’s starting second baseman for much of the campaign.

On January 28, Julien was traded to the Rockies, along with right-hander Pierson Ohl, in exchange for pitching prospect Jace Kaminska and cash considerations.

This season marks the second consecutive year that Julien has struggled at the plate at the big league level. In 2025, he batted .220 with three home runs and 12 RBIs in 64 games with the Twins.

Julien is looking to recapture his 2023 form when he batted .263 with 16 home runs and a .381 on-base percentage in 109 games with the Twins. That season, he finished seventh in American League Rookie of the Year voting.

That came on the heels of his breakout performance at the 2023 World Baseball Classic when he batted leadoff for Canada and went 7-for-13 (.538 batting average) with two home runs and five walks in four games. He suited up for Canada at the WBC again this past March.

Selected in the 18th round of the 2019 MLB draft by the Twins, the ABC and Junior National Team alum spent parts of three seasons in the Twins’ minors before making his big league debut.

The left-handed hitting Julien has been primarily a second baseman during his pro career, he has also played 43 big league games at first base.

Julien has less than three years of major league service time, so he can’t elect free agency. He’ll head to Albuquerque and hope to rediscover his batting stroke in triple-A.

Julien had been one of two Canadians on the Rockies’ roster. Right-hander Jordan Romano (Markham, Ont.) has served as the team’s closer since his call-up on July 4.

*This article was originally published on Alberta Dugout Stories on August 12. You can read it here.

August 15, 2026

By Joe McFarland

Alberta Dugout Stories

It’s been a good while since Alberta has brought home a medal from the Baseball Canada Cup.

So long, in fact, that most of the players suiting up in the 2026 edition of the tournament weren’t even in kindergarten when it happened.

While they had no recollection of Erik Sabrowski, Justin King, Clayton Keyes and crew claiming silver in Saskatoon in 2014, Team Alberta was looking to make their own memories this summer.

Armed with a solid core of players who had played together at different times during their respective journeys in the game, they endured big wins and heartbreaking losses to get into the bronze medal game.

And in dramatic fashion, they broke the dry spell with a walk-off 7-6 victory over New Brunswick.

“I think most of us were aware that Alberta hadn’t medaled in a long time, but I don’t think we knew it had been 12 years,” utilityman Mac Warawa told Alberta Dugout Stories. “Being able to be the team that hopefully breaks that ice and helps build some momentum for the future is awesome.”

The players credit a full team effort and a special camaraderie for the bronze and hope it inspires future teams to go for gold.

SETTING THE STAGE

The Baseball Canada Cup hadn’t been kind to Team Alberta over the last couple of tournaments with a seventh-place finish in 2023 and sixth in 2024.

With no tournament in 2025 (it happens in non-Canada Summer Games years), it gave Baseball Alberta the chance to really dive into the 17U talent base and find the players it needed to make a run at the podium.

Once the team was assembled, many of the players were able to connect as they had either been teammates before or had crossed paths.

It allowed for discussions to happen before they took off for Summerside, P.E.I.

“We had a sports mental coach come in and talk to us for an hour during our practice the day before we left,” said infielder Brooks Froese. “We worked on what our goals were, our intentions, and what we needed to do to gel as a team.”

Their mindset going into the tournament: win it all.

MEMORABLE ON THE MOUND

Things started exactly as planned when they landed in Summerside.

Five players including Warawa, Bo Anderson, Gerit Vanderwal, Riley Wolbeck and Xavier Lampshire homered in a 20-1 romp over Newfoundland and Labrador.

They followed that up with a decisive 8-1 win over Nova Scotia and 8-6 triumph against New Brunswick on day two of the tournament.

Alberta kept rolling on the third day with a 5-2 victory against P.E.I. with Warawa, Lampshire and Riley Dusterhoft combining for a three-hitter while striking out nine.

“We had outstanding pitching all tournament long,” said Froese, who hails from Red Deer.

That trend continued heading into Saturday’s final round-robin game, with Ronan Johnson twirling a complete-game five-hitter while striking out four, although the offence couldn’t get going in a 2-1 setback to Quebec.

That landed Alberta in the quarterfinal, where Finn Gavigan allowed just three hits while recording eight punchouts in a 7-2 win over Manitoba.

SUPER SUNDAY

It was Warawa’s turn to make a difference on the mound heading into the semi-final against B.C. on Sunday. The Lacombe product did his part by tossing six innings of five-hit baseball, allowing three runs while striking out three.

However, the offence hit another dry spell as Wolbeck drove in the lone run in a 3-1 loss, putting Alberta into the bronze medal game.

New Brunswick started strong with a pair of two-run innings before Alberta clawed back to tie in the second thanks to three bases-loaded walks and a wild pitch that scored Tyler Diprose from third.

The two teams exchanged runs before New Brunswick took another one-run lead in the seventh, setting the stage for an intense final half inning.

Anderson walked and Wawara was hit by a pitch, who were both moved over by a sacrifice bunt from Dusterhoft.

They had to stay put when Sloan Reid struck out and, with two out, Diprose came up to face Evan Warr. On a 1-0 pitch, the St. Albert native drove the ball into centre field and the baserunners got on their horses.

Anderson scored easily while Warawa was given the green light from head coach Kurtus Millar to try for the win.

“Before the pitch was even thrown, it was in the back of my mind that I was probably going to get the wave.”

“Having played on teams in the past that love aggressive base-running, I’m trying everything I can do to score,” Warawa said.

A MOMENT FROZEN IN TIME

It was a moment that Warawa admits comes close to simply blacking out and letting his body take over.

“As I’m about halfway down the (third base) line, I see the catcher get super-low for the throw,” said the second baseman. “All I can really hear is Bo (Anderson) screaming at me to slide on the inside.”

His Alberta teammates had risen in the dugout in anticipation of the call from the umpire.

“All I can remember is Tyler hitting that ball up the middle and hopping the fence, holding my breath waiting for Wawara to score,” said Wolbeck.

When the umpire signaled “safe,” chaos ensued.

“That dogpile was something I have never experienced before,” the Leduc native continued. “It was one of the coolest moments in my baseball career so far.”

While it wasn’t the medal they initially set out for, the players had accomplished something no Alberta team had in 12 years.

And the pride was oozing out of them after the celebrations had wrapped up.

“I think the key for our team was our ability to come together as one,” said Froese, who was named the tournament’s top shortstop. “We became a team so quickly, which gave us an advantage over most of the other provincial teams.”

For Wolbeck, he hopes this tournament sets a standard in Alberta and puts it back on the map of provinces with great players.

“I feel like we are a bit overlooked when it comes to talented provinces,” said the 16-year-old. “This result should get us some recognition, and I know I’ll be back for sure next year to hopefully bring a medal back again and hopefully the win the whole thing.”

Summerside will once again play host to the Baseball Canada Cup in 2027.

By Rich Leitch

Canadian Premier Baseball League

The Canadian Premier Underclass Team that will represent the Canadian Premier Baseball League (CPBL) at Perfect Game’s Midwest Champions Cup, from September 25 to September 27, in New Lenox, Ill., has officially been finalized.

The roster was assembled through an extensive evaluation process that began in May with the CPBL Prospect Game tryouts. Those evaluations, combined with ongoing assessments throughout the regular season, identified players for CPBL Prospect Weekend—the final stage of the selection process for this prestigious event.

The roster was selected by Perfect Game evaluators in collaboration with the Canadian Premier coaching staff, CPBL executives and MLB scouts.

Now entering its third year, the Canadian Premier Underclass Team has established itself as an opportunity for some of the league’s top young players to compete against elite programs from across the United States. The team has also gained valuable international experience, including exhibition series against the Australian National Team.

This year’s trip will feature two pre-tournament games, beginning with a matchup on the campus of the University of Michigan. The team will then face the GRB Rays National Team before heading to New Lenox for the Midwest Champions Cup.

The event will provide the players with another opportunity to compete at a high level while gaining valuable exposure in front of college and professional baseball evaluators.

For additional information about the Midwest Champions Cup, please visit Perfect Game

“The Canadian Premier Underclass Team serves to bring together the top 2028 players in our league and challenge them against some of the best teams in the Midwest,” said Jamie Romak, general manager of the Canadian Premier Underclass squad. “We are excited to get them on Michigan’s campus and continue the exposure component on site in New Lenox. Continued thanks to Perfect Game, CPBL evaluators and the MLB scouts who helped bring this team together.”

The schedule for the 2026 Canadian Futures Showcase has been unveiled.

The Canadian Futures Showcase, which will take place from September 16 to September 20 at Nat Bailey Stadium in Vancouver, B.C., is an annual national amateur baseball showcase hosted by the Blue Jays Baseball Academy.

The goal of the event is to showcase the best amateur baseball players born in Canada, from across the country, with draft and college eligibility.

The event brings together the best Canadian players and gives them the opportunity to compete in front of as many MLB scouts and college recruiters as possible.

Last month, the Blue Jays Baseball Academy unveiled the names of the first 50 players that have been selected to participate.

August 14, 2026

Official Ottawa Titans News Release

Sauget, Ill. - Holding an early 5-0 lead, the Ottawa Titans could not finish it off, falling 8-6 to the Gateway Grizzlies on Friday night.

It all started well for the visitors, as Taylor Wright (North Vancouver, B.C.) crushed his team-leading 15th homer of the year with one out in the top of the first off right-hander Gage Vailes, putting the Titans ahead.

In the third, Michael Fuhrman drew a one-out walk - setting up a two-run long ball from Jackie Urbaez to make it 3-0.

Putting two on in the fourth, Hunter Stokely ripped a two-run single to right, putting the Titans up 5-0. Stokely has now driven in eight over his last three games.

Dominic Puccetti looked dominant through three clean innings to let the early lead stand up - until things came crashing down in the middle frames.

Jose Alvarez got the Grizzlies on the board with an infield RBI single before posting a five-spot in the fifth. Dale Thomas, Bryson Horne, Darryl Lee and Alvarez all drove in runs with hits - while Abdiel Diaz brought one home with a ground out.

Knocked out of the game after four-plus innings, Puccetti allowed four runs on four hits, walking four, hitting one, and striking out three.

The Titans had some late life in the seventh, tying the game at six as Myles Smith legged out a double-play ball to score an Urbaez walk.

Yohanse Morel allowed two inherited runners to score, while also allowing three of his own over two innings out of the bullpen.

The Grizzlies added one more big inning in the bottom of the seventh, as Liu Fuenmayor allowed one inherited runner to score, while surrendering one of his own to put the game out of reach.

Offensively, the Titans went down quietly with the bats, registering just one hit from the sixth inning onward.

Hunter Stokely continued a great stretch, extending his on-base streak to 13 games by going 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs. Jackie Urbaez homered and drove in two. Heitor Tokar shined in the eighth with a clean 1-2-3 frame.

The Titans continue a six-game Midwest Conference road trip with the second of a three-game series against the Grizzlies on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. E.T. at Arsenal BG Ballpark in Sauget, Ill. The Titans return home on Tuesday for a six-game series against the Mississippi Mud Monsters.

August 14, 2026

By Bob Elliott

Canadian Baseball Network

A Canadian trio all contributed to the Yankees beating the Royals 8-4 at the Area Code Games in Long Beach, Calif.

The threesome was Jalen Jacob, Gabriel De Santis and Gave Fink.

1B Jacob (Maple, Ont.), of the Ontario Blue Jays, had a pair of hits, while De Santis (Chatham, Ont.), with the Great Lake Canadians, singled and knocked in a run. Gabe Fink (Edmonton, Alta.), of the AHP Academy, pitched 1 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on three hits and three walks. When Fink departed, the Yankees held a 6-4 lead. Fink threw 36 pitches -- 16 for strikes.

The Yankees registered a 5-2 win over the White Sox as 1B Jacob singled, while De Santis was held hitless.

Both De Santis and Jacob went without a hit as the Yankees lost 5-1 to the Athletics

Next, the Yankees lost 4-0 to the Brewers, as both De Santis, who has committed o Coastal Carolina, and Jacob were 0-for-1.

RHP Calum Anderson (Calgary, Alta.), of the Vauxhall Academy Jets, started and pitched two scoreless as the Yankees played the Royals to a 4-4 tie in the final game. He allowed two hits and struck out one in his 22-pitch effort, which saw 15 strikes. He departed with a 4-0 lead. De Santis singled, while Jacob was hitless.

On the week, Jacob 3-for-14 (.214) and De Santis was 2-for-12 (.167).

August 14, 2026

By Bob Elliott

Canadian Baseball Network

Arnold Ohanian was the top hitter among three Canucks invited to the 2026 Area Codes Underclassmen Games.

Ohanian (Laval, Que.) went 4-for-8 at Blair Field in Long Beach, Calif. A total of 240 players from across North America were invited along with dozens of scouts. The Underclassmen invited are eligible for the 2028 draft.

The other Canadian-based players invited were RHP Ethan Renaud (Okotoks, Alta.), of the Okotoks Dawgs Academy, and OF Mikey Batiste (Mississauga, Ont.), of the Ontario Blue Jays.

RF Batiste singled and knocked in a run in a 4-1 victory over the Royals. Renaud added a single, while Ohani was hitless.

Academy Baseball Canada’s DH Ohanian singled and knocked in a run in a 7-3 win against the White Sox, while RF Renaud contributed a single.

3B Ohanian helped the Yankees play the Athletics to a 7-7 tie, with three RBIs, while the other two Canucks were hitless.

DH Ohanian singled in a 7-0 win over the Rangers, while the other two Canadians went hitless.

For the week, Ohanian batted .500 (4-for-8), while Renaud hit .200 (2-for-10) and Batiste hit .267 (1-for-6).

Mikey Batiste

Baseball America Scouting Report: … Batiste is an immense human being with the power to match. He’s 6-foot-5, 235 pounds at 16, a four-star player and No. 5 overall in the 2028 class. A switch-hitter, Batiste showed that power in batting practice, hitting a ball at 105 mph off the scoreboard in right field while batting lefthanded.

He showed it again while winning the home run derby and making a park that’s difficult to hit home runs in look small. He’s a corner outfielder with a promising combination of both patience and power, giving him the look of a potential 30-plus home run slugger who could hit in the middle of a lineup.

2028 HS Draft Rank: 5

OF Ethan Renaud

Baseball America Scouting Report: …While Batiste is the top player in Canada for 2028, Renaud is another talented Canadian hitter ranked No. 28 overall. He has a great frame at a lean 6-foot-3, 190 pounds that should allow him to add significant power to what he was already flashing in batting practice, where he produced exit velocities up to 102 mph and then flashed it in game with an opposite-field double.

While there was some swing-and-miss in this look, Renaud has a simple, balanced lefthanded swing with good path through the hitting zone, making for a promising mix of hitting ability and power potential with a likely corner outfield defensive profile.

2028 HS Draft Rank: 28

August 14, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

On Tuesday, the Toronto Blue Jays signed Canadian outfielder David Calabrese to a minor league contract and assigned him to the High-A Vancouver Canadians.

The speedy Maple, Ont., native had been released by the Los Angeles Angels’ double-A Rocket City Trash Pandas on August 4.

Calabrese made his debut with the Canadians on Wednesday. Batting seventh and playing right field, he went 0-for-2 with a walk, a run and a stolen base.

The 23-year-old Canuck has spent parts of four seasons at the double-A level in the Angels’ organization. Prior to signing with the Blue Jays, Calabrese had a .221/.295/.351 slash line in 74 games with the Trash Pandas. He had five home runs and seven stolen bases.

Selected in the third round of the 2020 MLB draft by the Angels, Calabrese has shown promising power (15 home runs in double-A in 2023) and speed (26 stolen bases in Class-A in 2022) during his six pro seasons.

As a teen, the left-handed hitting outfielder honed his skills with the Ontario Blue Jays and Junior National Team. At the 2019 Canadian Futures Showcase, he registered the fastest time (6.43 seconds) in the 60-yard dash.

In total, in 499 minor league games, Calabrese has batted .215 with 42 home runs and 71 stolen bases.

He has joined fellow Canucks and JNT grads Connor O’Halloran (Mississauga, Ont.) and Sam Shaw (Victoria, B.C.) on the Vancouver Canadians roster.

August 13, 2026

By Ian Wilson

Western Canadian Baseball League

There is a changing of the guard in the Western Canadian Baseball League.

When the Harry Hallis Memorial Trophy is lifted at the conclusion of the 2026 WCBL Championship Series, one team will be raising it for the first time in franchise history.

The Saskatoon Berries advanced to the big dance after eliminating the defending champion Regina Red Sox in the opening round and sweeping the top-seeded Moose Jaw Miller Express in the best-of-three East Division Final.

In the West Division, the Sylvan Lake Gulls went the distance with the Lethbridge Bulls in their opening series before sweeping their rivals, the Okotoks Dawgs, for a second straight summer in the division final.

Both clubs are relative newcomers to the WCBL. The Berries are in their third season of play and are making their first trip to the championship final. The Gulls began play in 2021 and made their first finals appearance last year, losing in three games to the Red Sox. Sylvan Lake set a league record for wins in 2024 with 44 victories, only to see a new milestone reached by Saskatoon last year when the Berries went 46-9 in the regular season.

On paper, it's an even matchup. Saskatoon and Sylvan Lake posted identical 38-18 records during the regular season and finished in second place in their divisions. The Gulls had a run differential of plus-191, while the Berries scored 187 runs more than they allowed.

The two teams split their regular season series, with both winning a game each, meaning home field advantage was determined by runs for and against in their head-to-head matchup. Sylvan Lake had the edge there and will host the first game on Saturday, Aug. 15th at Gulls Field at 7:05 p.m. The second matchup shifts to NexGen Patch at Cairns Field in Saskatoon at 7:05 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 16th. If necessary, a third and deciding game will occur in Sylvan Lake on Monday, Aug. 17th, with first pitch set for 7:05 p.m.

Here's a closer look at the two teams that are chasing history:

SYLVAN LAKE GULLS

With consecutive postseason sweeps over Okotoks and back-to-back trips to the WCBL Championship Series, the Gulls have stepped out of the shadow of the Dawgs - a team that won a three-peat of titles from 2022 through 2024 - to claim "best in the West" status.

After being one strike away from getting their names engraved on the Harry Hallis Memorial Trophy in 2025, the Gulls have ample motivation to complete the mission this year.

One major shift for the organization was the move of Jason Chatwood from head coach to general manager after last season. That allowed Chatwood, the skipper of the club since its inception, to focus on recruitment while long-time assistant coach Matt Hape took on a bigger role as head coach.

While the team was locked into second place in the West Division for the bulk of the season, they rounded into postseason form in early August. Sylvan Lake defeated the Bulls in that series opener by a 9-2 score at Gulls Field, dropped the second game at Spitz Stadium 10-3, and held on for a 3-2 triumph over Lethbridge in the third game.

The Gulls began the West Division Final at Seaman Stadium in Okotoks and limited the high-octane offence of the Dawgs to just a pair of runs during a 7-2 win. Sylvan Lake jumped out to an 8-2 lead in the early stages of the second game at Gulls Field before the Dawgs chipped away and tied things up in the seventh inning. A wall-scraping solo blast by first baseman Coleman Parry gave the Gulls a 9-8 lead that closer Brayden Stewart would not relinquish.

In their journey to the final, the Gulls are 4-1 with 31 runs for and 24 runs against.

At the plate, Sylvan Lake has received contributions up and down the lineup during the postseason. Australian outfielder Charlie Collins leads the club with eight hits and has three runs batted in (RBI), two runs, a double, a triple and a stolen base. Third baseman Johnboy Rittenhouse is the RBI leader on the team, with nine. The Scottsville, Virginia product is also batting .350 with a 1.114 OPS, six runs, three doubles and a homer. In addition to his two home runs in the series against the Dawgs, Coleman Parry has seven RBI and a double. Other offensive leaders include Oakville, Ontario outfielder Elijha Hammill (seven hits, four RBI, four runs, three doubles, six walks); shortstop Jaden Flores (five runs, five hits, two RBI, one home run, two doubles); outfielder Dominic Giusti (five hits, five runs, .600 on-base percentage); designated hitter Cleary Simpson (four hits, three runs, one RBI, three walks) and second baseman Maddox Shaver (four hits, two runs, two doubles).

The hill toppers with the Gulls have also done a good job of limiting the run production of the opposition. Noah Bourgeois was masterful in his start against the Dawgs, logging six innings, six strikeouts and a 1.17 earned run average to get the series-opening win in Okotoks. He also made an impressive pickoff throw to first base to get speedster Cal Gates off the base paths. Other winning postseason outings came from Reece Hemmerling (five innings, eight strikeouts, 1.40 ERA) and Matthew Mackenzie (5.2 innings, three strikeouts, 2.47 ERA), who both claimed victories over Lethbridge.

Closer Brayden Stewart has been lights out for the Gulls in picking up one win and one save in his 5.2 innings of work. He has eight strikeouts and has not given up an earned run in his two outings. Sylvan Lake has also received strong bullpen outings from Seth Mahler (five innings, six strikeouts, 2.80 ERA), Kyle Froehlich (five innings, six strikeouts, 5.60 ERA), and Trent Chavez (two innings, four strikeouts, no hits, no walks, no runs).

SASKATOON BERRIES

Over in the East Division, the Berries have been quick to establish a winning culture under head coach Joe Carnahan, who won championship titles and individual accolades as a player and a coach with the Swift Current 57's before he arrived in Saskatoon.

The front office has also done a bang-up job of painting Saskatoon purple and drawing thousands of baseball fans to NexGen Patch at Cairns Field, where the team played host to the 2026 WCBL All-Star Weekend in July.

Following consecutive losses in the East Division Final in previous postseasons, the Berries were able to lock down their first WCBL Championship Series appearance this year.

To get there, the Berries were able to exorcise a couple of demons along the way. They started their postseason by dispatching the defending WCBL champion Regina Red Sox in a tight three game series. Saskatoon started that best-of-three tilt with a 7-3 win on home field before the Red Sox struck for a 5-3 victory at Currie Field. A 5-3 win for the Berries in the third game - highlighted by a spectacular sixth-inning diving catch by outfielder Ethan Murdoch with two outs and the bases loaded for Regina - sealed the game and the series.

Their path got harder from there, as they faced the first-place Moose Jaw Miller Express in the East Division Final. The Millers roster included Thomas Soto - who set regular season WCBL records for stolen bases and runs in 2026 - and towering pitcher Westin Walls, who established a single-season record for strikeouts this summer. In squaring off against a consistent and hard-working Moose Jaw team, the Berries were able to produce a pair of 7-4 victories to sweep the Miller Express and advance to their best-of-three matchup against the Gulls.

The Berries are 4-1 in the 2026 WCBL Postseason, with 29 runs scored and 19 runs against.

Shortstop Brock Laird has led the club with nine hits in 20 at bats, while scoring three runs, producing four RBI and walking twice. Designated hitter Nick Stinson (.583 batting average, 1.667 OPS, one homer) and catcher Aiden Kilshaw (six hits, four runs, one long ball) have manufactured the most RBI on the Berries, with both registering six so far. Ethan Murdoch has a pair of home runs - one in each series - to go with five RBI. The Berries other hot hitters include outfielder Nathan Houston (eight hits, three runs, three RBI, one stolen base); Nash Nichols (six hits, three doubles, three RBI, three runs, one stolen base); and third baseman Mason Roell (four runs, three walks, one home run).

On the bump, starting pitcher Diego Quinonez has a postseason win, five strikeouts and a 2.10 ERA in his 6.2 innings, while Zachary Landerville racked up 10 Ks and recorded a 1.17 ERA in his six-inning start against Regina.

Wesley Shackleford has done it all for Saskatoon, picking up a win and two saves, and piling up 11 strikeouts over seven innings of scoreless baseball. Colin Plain also has a save and three strikeouts in his two innings, and has not allowed a run during his two appearances. Other notable performances have been turned in by lefty Brooks Jones (four innings, one win, four strikeouts, no runs allowed); Augie Grohman (four innings, four strikeouts, 1.75 ERA); Adam Korte (3.2 innings, one win, three strikeouts, 1.91 ERA); and Dallen Rude (2.2 innings, four strikeouts, 2.63 ERA).

These two evenly matched teams will begin writing the final chapter of the 2026 WCBL Postseason when the best-of-three final gets underway on Saturday, Aug. 15th at Gulls Field in Sylvan Lake. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m.

August 12, 2026

By Rich Leitch

CPBL

The Canadian Premier Baseball League (CPBL) is pleased to announce that the Ontario Kobras Baseball Club will join the league in 2027, bringing a strong and competitive organization with a commitment to player development to the CPBL.

The Kobras will field teams in the newly formed CPBL Prospect Division at the 14U Minor, 15U and 16U age groups.

In addition, the Ontario Kobras will enter teams in the CPBL Premier Division at the 13U, 14U Major, 16U and 18U age groups as provisional members.

The Ontario Kobras Baseball Club is committed to developing complete athletes through elite coaching, competitive opportunities, and a culture built on accountability, respect and hard work. The organization’s mission is to prepare players for the next level of baseball while helping them grow as leaders both on and off the field.

“We're excited to join the CPBL and become part of a league that shares our commitment to player development and competitive excellence,” said Kobras owner Chuck Schembri.

The addition of the Ontario Kobras provides the CPBL with another organization focused on maintaining the league’s standard of player development and competitive excellence. The Kobras have established a strong reputation for competing at a high level in tournaments throughout Ontario and across the United States.

Their entry into the CPBL not only adds another highly competitive organization to the league, but also creates meaningful opportunities for talented players throughout Central Ontario to compete against some of the province’s top amateur baseball programs.

“We are excited to welcome the Ontario Kobras to the CPBL,” said Chris Robinson, CPBL President. “The Kobras have demonstrated a commitment to developing players and competing at a high level, and their addition strengthens the CPBL at multiple age groups. We believe their organization will be an excellent fit within the league and will provide valuable opportunities for players looking to take their game to the next level.”

With teams competing across both the Prospect and Premier Divisions, the Ontario Kobras will become an important addition to the CPBL’s growing league structure and its continued focus on providing high-level competition and player development opportunities across Ontario.

About the Ontario Kobras Baseball Club

The Ontario Kobras Baseball Club is committed to developing complete athletes through elite coaching, competitive opportunities and a culture built on accountability, respect and hard work. The organization’s goal is to prepare players for the next level of baseball while helping them develop the skills, character and leadership qualities necessary for success both on and off the field.

About the Canadian Premier Baseball League

The Canadian Premier Baseball League (CPBL) is committed to providing high-level amateur baseball players with competitive opportunities designed to support their development and progression to the next level of the game. Through its Premier and Prospect Divisions, the CPBL continues to expand opportunities for players and organizations across Ontario and Quebec.

By Bob Elliott

Canadian Baseball Network

As soon as one draft ends, the search for next year’s top picks begins.

On the last day of last month, playerss and the first few days of this month, coaches and a ton of radar-toting scouts gathered for the annual East Coast Pro Showcase tournament in Hoover, Ala.

INF Jalen Jacob of the Ontario Blue Jays, Canadian Premier and Junior National Team and RHP Calum Anderson of the Vauxhall Academy Jets and Junior National Team were the two Canucks represented.

Jacob (Maple, Ont.) singled as the ECP Yankees scored a 9-6 win over the ECP Cardinals.

And he also doubled in a 9-3 loss to the ECP Twins. In the four games series, Jacob was 2-for-10 (.200).

Anderson (Calgary, Alta.) took over with a 2-0 lead in the third, worked two scoreless and pitched the Cardinals to a 4-2 win over the ECP Rangers. Anderson allowed one hit, walked none and struck out three.

In the other game, the ECP Phillies tied the Cardinals 3-3.

* * *

Both made Baseball America’s top 57 prospects:

Jalen Jacob, 1B-3B, Cardinals

Maple, Ont.

Committed: Uncommitted

HS Draft Rank: NR

Baseball America scouting report: Jacob is an extra-large corner infielder with a 6-foot-3, 250-pound frame that provides lots of strength and raw power. He has a long, level swing, and on the final day of the event, he put a charge into a handful of balls. He doubled against an 85 mph change up on a ball he crushed to the center field warning track at 102 mph, then in his next at-bat, he smashed a deep fly ball to center at 93 mph that went for a long out.

Calum Andersen, RHP, Cardinals

Calgary, Alta.

Committed: Oklahoma

HS Draft Rank: 44

Baseball America scouting report: Andersen is a 6-foot-5, 195-pound righthander from Canada who worked a pair of quick innings and showed solid control of a three-pitch mix. He struck out three of the six batters he faced and did a nice job landing his fastball to both sides of the plate.

Andersen threw his fastball in the 93-95 mph range and showed flashes of a plus slider at 81-82 with big spin and impressive late-biting action. He also mixed an 86-87 mph changeup.

August 12, 2026

Official Toronto Blue Jays News Release

The Toronto Blue Jays have claimed RHP Paul Sewald off waivers from the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Sewald, 36, has appeared in 45 contests for the Diamondbacks this season, posting a 6.23 ERA with a 1.10 WHIP, a .228 opponent average, a 5.5% walk rate, and a 27.0% strikeout rate, while ranking tied for fourth in the NL in saves (24).

The right-hander from Las Vegas, Nev., was selected by the New York Mets in the 10th round of the 2012 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of San Diego, making his MLB debut with the club in 2017. Over 10 MLB seasons, Sewald has suited up for the Mets, Mariners, Diamondbacks, Guardians, and Tigers, appearing in 426 games, posting a 4.30 ERA with a 1.14 WHIP, a .220 opponent average, a 7.8% walk rate, a 28.4% strikeout rate, and 110 saves.

Additionally, RHP Jake Bloss has been recalled to the major league roster and placed on the 60-day injured list.

August 12, 2026

Baseball Canada

This week, 10 U18 teams across Canada will face off in Wood Buffalo, Alta., between August 13th and August 16 competing at Ross Hennigar Park and Legacy Dodge Field, to go head-to-head for the title of 18U National Champion.

Last year's event was held in Fort McMurray, Alta., where British Columbia claimed the gold medal, Ontario earned silver, and Alberta captured bronze.

Previous medalists and game statistics from U18 Championships can be found here. 

WHAT
2026 U18 National Championships held in Wood Buffalo, Alta.

WHEN
Round robin play is set to take place between Thursday, August 13 and Friday August 14. Quarter final games will be held on Saturday August 15, with placement, semi finals and medal games occurring on Sunday, August 16.

WHO
Nine provinces will be represented at the National stage through ten teams.

• Alberta

• Alberta (Host Team)

• British Columbia

• Manitoba

• New Brunswick

• Newfoundland and Labrador

• Nova Scotia

• Ontario

• Prince Edward Island

• Saskatchewan

HOW TO FOLLOW

Stream the U18 National Championships via Youtube

Live scoring of all tournament games via Game Changer

August 12, 2026

By Jason Young

Winnipeg Goldeyes

WINNIPEG, MAN. – Adam Hall drove in five runs, including a three-run home run in the eighth inning, as the Winnipeg Goldeyes defeated the Sioux Falls Canaries 11-4 Wednesday evening at Blue Cross Park.

Sioux Falls opened the scoring in the first inning on a solo home run to centre field by Jabari Henry.

Winnipeg answered in the bottom of the second when centre fielder Noah Marcelo singled, stole second base, and scored on a right-field single by left fielder Jiandido Tromp to tie the game 1-1.

The Goldeyes moved in front in the third. Shortstop Ray-Patrick Didder drew a walk and second baseman Ramón Bramasco followed with a single before Hall lifted a sacrifice fly to right to give Winnipeg a 2-1 lead.

The Canaries tied the game in the fourth on back-to-back doubles by Michael Curialle and Anthony Hall.

Winnipeg quickly regained control in the bottom half. Right fielder Keshawn Lynch led off with a home run to left to put the Goldeyes back in front 3-2. Two batters later, designated hitter Max Murphy hit a solo home run to right to extend the lead to 4-2.

Didder led off the fifth with a home run to left for a 5-2 advantage. Hall then doubled to centre and scored on Marcelo’s single up the middle to make it 6-2.

Right-hander Landen Bourassa (Lethbridge, Alta.) worked five strong innings before Sioux Falls cut into the lead in the sixth. A bases-loaded walk to Joe Vos brought home a run to make it 6-3, and a hit batter forced in another to pull the Canaries within 6-4.

Right-hander Eli Saul (Vancouver, B.C.) came on and struck out Henry to end the inning and preserve Winnipeg’s two-run lead.

The Goldeyes added a run in the seventh when Didder and Bramasco drew walks and Hall lined a single to centre, extending the lead to 7-4.

Winnipeg broke the game open in the eighth. Murphy doubled and scored on a wild pitch to make it 8-4. Didder and Bramasco followed with singles before Hall drove a three-run home run down the left-field line to give the Goldeyes an 11-4 advantage.

Right-hander Derrick Cherry struck out two in a scoreless ninth inning to close out the victory.

Bourassa allowed two runs on five hits over five innings, striking out six and walking one. Arij Fransen was charged with two runs in 2/3 of an inning before Saul recorded the final out of the sixth and worked a scoreless seventh. Sage Ferguson struck out two in a perfect eighth before Cherry finished with a scoreless ninth.

Chase Gearing allowed six runs on nine hits over six innings for Sioux Falls.

Hall finished 3-for-4 with a home run, double, and five runs batted in. Didder reached base four times, scored four runs and homered. Murphy went 2-for-4 with a home run and double, while Tromp added two hits and an RBI.

The series will conclude Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Blue Cross Park. Left-hander Ryo Kohigashi will start for Winnipeg, while Sioux Falls will counter with right-hander Christian Edwards.

August 12, 2026

By Rhett Vasseur

Okotoks Dawgs

Okotoks, Alta. – The Okotoks Dawgs’ season came to an end on Wednesday night when they lost 9-8 to the Sylvan Lake Gulls at Gulls Stadium.

With the win, the Gulls won the best-of-three series 2-0.

They Dawgs fell just short of a remarkable comeback in this contest. They were trailing 8-2 after three innings and rallied to tie the game until the Gulls pushed across the winning run in the bottom of the eighth.

The Dawgs’ bats were led by Nash Crowell (Yarmouth, N.S.) who went 3-for-3 with three RBIs and a run.

Jordan Kievman had another good night at the plate, going 4-for-5 with three runs, while Jacob Wrubleski (Okotoks, Alta.) added a hit and three RBIs.

On the mound, the Dawgs’ pitching was led by Reid Madriaga who struck out five in 4 2/3 scoreless innings in relief.

Dalton Hoffart also had an excellent relief outing, tossing a huge scoreless inning to calm things down after the Gulls got up early.

The Dawgs are grateful to all of their fans for the incredible support shown all season and can’t wait for next summer.

August 12, 2026

By Bob Elliott

Canadian Baseball Network

It is true when they say “you can always see something you have never seen at the ballpark.”

Like the other night, the Boston Red Sox had runners on the corners down 2-0 to the Toronto Blue Jays and it looked as if the gap had been narrowed to a 2-1 on a bizarre play in the seventh.

With runners at the corners and one out -- although the scoreboard showed two were out -- Ceddanne Rafaela lofted a fly to centre. Thinking there were two outs when the ball was hit, however, neither Anthony Seigler at third base nor Nick Sogard at first tagged up properly. Both took off with the ball in the air, and after it was caught Sogard was doubled off first for the third out of the inning.

Seigler crossed home plate and a 17-minute delay ensued. Apparently since the Blue Jays left the field they could not return and appeal to third that the runner had not tagged. Had they thrown the ball to third it would have been an inning-ending double play without the run scoring.

You think that is bizarre? How about this one?

In 9U play, the Dieppe Cardinals were playing the Kent-Sud Expos.

Phil Martin was on base and Pat Cormier was at the plate. Cormier hit the ball over the left fielder’s head and he got on his horse ... rounding second ... rounding third ,.. and heading home.

Martin scored, but there may have been a play at the plate on Cormier. Now, an 9U dugout can get loud.

“SLIDE! SLIDE!”

Cormier slid in safely with his inside-the-park homer ... but Martin heard the SLIDE yells too. He retreated to the plate and slid in from foul territory.

Dieppe won 6-0.

August 12, 2026

Lucas Morrisey was the engine that drove the Clarington Orioles to a 10-4 win over the Oakville A’s in Markham at the 13U eliminations.

Morrisey doubled in the first, singled in the second and doubled again in the sixth as he also knocked in a pair and scored three times.

Clarington will compete as Ontario 1 and Oakville will be Ontario 2, along with the host Woodstock Wranglers.

Chase Griffin had three hits, including a double and four RBIs. Greyson Rutherford and Gavin Laton each added a pair of hits.

Laton worked seven innings, striking out seven for the victory. William Kniginyzky homered for Oakville and Colton Accadia doubled. Lochlan Kern took the loss.

* * *

Oakville beat Clarington 11-1 to force the deciding game as Charlie Bellmore had three hits, including two doubles and an RBI. Kniginyzky homered and drove in four runs, while Hunter Latimer knocked in a pair. Xander Eichhorn worked four innings for the victory, allowing one run, walking two and striking out six.

Levi Chernis went 2-for-2, while Cooper Walsh took the loss.

* * *

Rutherford and Laton combined on a five hitter, striking out 11 (Rutherford, nine in 4 2/3 innings, Laton, two in 2 1/3) in a 3-2 win over the Newmarket Hawks. Rutherford added two hits and drove in a run.

* * *

Rutherford went 4-for-4 with two doubles, an RBI and two runs scored in a 9-3 win over Oakville. Kershaw Kemlo and Chernis had a pair of hits apiece, while Andy Stone added a triple. Morrisey beat Oakville for the first time, pitching 5 2/3 innings walking one and fanning 10.

Latimer drove in a pair of runs with a double while Svante Goure doubled as well.

* * *

Herod went 4-for-5 with a double and three RBIs in a 19-11 win over the London Badgers in the first game of the qualifier. Chernis had a pair of doubles driving in two, while Stone doubled and singled knocking in one run.

Walsh started for Clarington allowing one earned run and Laton worked the final inning allowing zero earned runs.

* * *

The Orioles built up an 8-3 lead and then held off a stubborn Waterloo Tigers team with an 8-6 win. Chernis had three hits and knocked in four runs. Herod and Griffin each contributed two hits each.

Again Morrisey was on the mound. The workhorse pitched 5 1/3 innings fanning 10.

* * *

A five-run second helped pave the way for an 8-4 win over the Whitby Canadians. Morrisey had two hits, including a homer, knocking in a pair. Rutherford and Cooper added two hits, while Laton and Rutherford each tripled.

Herod allowed two runs in four innings.

* * *

Meanwhile Oakville began qualifier play with a 4-2 win over the East York, thanks to a four-run sixth in the opener of the qualifier. Three walks started the rally and Latimer scored on wild pitch. Willy Janzen singled in the tying run and then Accadia hit a two-strike, two-run, double to right for the winning margin. Levi Price added a double,

Eichhorn pitched 1 2/3 scorless before Kniginyzky came on in relief to strike out the final out.

* * *

Damiam Gonzalez pitched 5 2/3 innings as Oakville beat the Etobicoke Rangers 11-6. Gonzalez allowed two earned runs and struck out a pair. Latimer homered, singled and knocked in three runs. Kniginyzky also homered.

Price had two hits and knocked in three runs, while Noah Corneliez-Guerrero, Bellmore and Goure each had two hits.

* * *

Four runs in the fifth helped the A’s to a 7-4 win over the Vaughan Vikings. Latimer pitched 4 2/3 innings before Eichhorn closed out the final 2 1/3 innings as they combined to allow seven hits and five strikeouts.

Accadia, a classical music fan, who appreciates county music, had two hits and knocked in a pair.

* * *

Eight runs in the first two innings powered Oakville to a 15-5 win over the Leaside Leafs as Bellmore. Kniginyzky and Kern combined on the win, allowing five hits. Kniginyzky was 2-for-2 with a double, home run and five RBIs. Latimer doubled and singled, while others with two hits included Goure, Corneliez-Guerrero and Janzen.

* * *

On the second weekend -- besides the Clarington games -- Oakville edged Vaughan 12-11. The Vikings had the tying run at third with none out. Accadia induced a ground ball with the infield in ... second baseman Janzen fired home to catcher Max Nanavati for the out on a bang-bang play. With the tying run on second Goure tracked down a ball on the warning track for the final out.

Nanavati managed three hits and drove in four runs, while Corneliez-Guerrero had three hits and two RBIs. Kniginyzky doubled, singled and knocked in a run as Bellmore added two hits as well.

*This article was originally published on Saskatchewan Dugout Stories on August 10, 2026. You can read it here.

August 11, 2026

By Joe McFarland

Saskatchewan Dugout Stories

For 19 years, the Saskatoon Diamondbacks have been snakebitten.

They have had good seasons in the Saskatchewan Premier Baseball League, including making it to the final in 2024, but haven’t been able to capture the circuit’s biggest prize.

After finishing with the best regular season record in 2025 and falling short in the postseason, the Diamondbacks went back to work with a solid core of veterans looking for retribution.

Knowing they had a lot of good pieces, they replicated their 25-7 regular season record from a season earlier before going on a run to their first-ever provincial championship.

“Losing in that final two years ago was heartbreaking so to be the one to come out on top this time was super-special,” utilityman Casey Rauckman told Saskatchewan Dugout Stories.

“This being the first-ever championship for the team made it even more special because we finally broke ‘the curse.’”

The Diamondbacks are now ready to represent Saskatchewan at the Baseball Canada 18U National Championships in Fort McMurray August 13-16.

FINDING WAYS TO WIN

They might not have known it at the time, but head coach Logan Clewes says he actually thought the Diamondbacks were a championship-calibre team after their 2024 loss.

He says the talent was evident from the first day they were together, but what seemed to set themselves apart was their work ethic and drive to get better every day.

After losing their first game of the season, the D-Backs won nine-straight games and had two separate stretches of seven wins in a row over the course of the spring and early summer.

“Throughout the season, this team found ways to win in different fashions and there was just this constant belief that never wavered,” Clewes said. “The other coaches and I were just amazed by them and how much they wanted it.”

Even the players could feel something was different with this particular group, as the newcomers even blended in nicely.

“I knew we had a chance to win the championship when, after only a month of practice in the offseason, our team went from total strangers to brothers in a family,” said pitcher/outfielder and Garden City Community College commit Dylan Pura.

“Our entire team contributed in every single game … the rookies brought so much skill to the team, the second years were building off a great season last year, and all seven of us third-year players, who brought it all together having played for so many years together even before the Diamondbacks.”

They earned the top seed in the circuit with a 25-7 record.

KEEP ON ROLLIN’

As everyone knows, the postseason can be a different beast, so the Diamondbacks thought their depth and determination would be put to the test.

However, they picked up right where they left off in the round-robin with an 8-2 win over the Regina White Sox – or so they thought.

Clewes says a pitch count violation led to a forfeit by the D-backs, pushing them to 0-1 in the tournament and a feeling like their backs were against the wall again.

They picked themselves up with a 12-3 triumph over the Saskatoon Giants, which came thanks to an eight-run third inning and a three-RBI game from Gavin Sasko.

The next big sign of adversity came in a nail-biting 9-8 win over the Sask 5 Marlins, where Karson Dziadyk went 2-for-3 with two RBI. They also benefited from another big inning – a six-run fifth – to capture the victory.

The Diamondbacks wrapped up the round-robin portion of the tournament with another close contest. Rauckman was the key, going 5 1/3 innings, allowing just one run on five hits while striking out two in a 3-1 win over the Saskatoon Giants.

The Southwestern Illinois College commit then did it with his bat in the semifinal, collecting three hits and three RBIs in a 13-6 win over the White Butte Broncos and cementing a date with the East Central Red Sox in the final.

FINISHING THE JOB

As if his last couple of games weren’t enough, Rauckman managed to make an immediate impact in the championship contest.

After blanking the Red Sox in the first inning, the starting shortstop led off with a solo home run for the Diamondbacks to take a 1-0 lead.

The two teams traded leads over the next few innings before the Diamondbacks manufactured another one of their patented big innings in the fifth.

Emerson Park hit a bases-loaded single, Sasko clubbed a two-run one-bagger, Dziadyk plated another and Pura made it 10-6 with another two-run single.

The pitching of Kasper Politowski did the rest with a 1-2-3 sixth and stranded a couple of East Central baserunners in the seventh, which ended with Sasko tossing a groundball to Rauckman to finish the game.

“From day one, I knew we had what it was going to take to win it all and that it was going to take everyone to do it,” said the shortstop. “It was a big shock but also such a relief when we got that final out.”

Pura, who also started the game and went four innings, adds, “Being a part of the first provincial championship team is something I will never forget and I know for a fact this team and this story of overcoming adversity will be talked about for years to come.”

Clewes credits the leadership group for showing the younger players the support they needed and the belief they had to have in one another.

“When it came time for the younger guys to come up in a big spot, they didn’t feel pressure as they knew everyone believed they would do the job,” the head coach said. “It really allowed our whole team to flourish and grow throughout the season.

He adds a true love of the game, which showed with players spending so much time around the ballpark, made it fun for everyone to go to work and it became contagious.

HEADING WEST

And now it’s time for the Diamondbacks to hit the road for Fort McMurray and the Baseball Canada 18U National Championships.

They are looking to become the first team from their province since 2016 to get onto the podium, while teams from Saskatchewan finished fourth at the tournament in 2022 and 2023, fifth in 2024 and seventh in 2025.

Getting the opportunity to put themselves on the national stage is something the team isn’t taking for granted.

“For the Diamondbacks to rep Sask at Nationals means so much to me and everyone that has ever played in this organization as it’s the first time ever,” Rauckman said. “We have been to the western championships in the past but to go to nationals is just a whole different experience and feeling.”

Clewes hopes the team’s closeness, along with the sheer talent, will allow them to do some damage at the tournament.

“For me, I just love this group so much and I’m just so excited for the guys,” he said. “It really just gives me a lot of joy to be able to see our guys competing on the national stage, which is something they’ve earned so much.”

August 11, 2026

By Abby Fralic

Okotoks Dawgs

Okotoks, Alta. – The Okotoks Dawgs came up short against the Sylvan Lake Gulls on Tuesday, falling 7-2 in front of 3,411 fans at Seaman Stadium in the first game of the best-of-three WCBL West Division Final.

On the mound, Logan Rumberg (Saskatoon, Sask.) started for the Dawgs. He allowed seven runs in 6 1/3 innings before Dawgs Academy right-hander Jack Bello (Vancouver, B.C.) took over and closed out the contest with 2 2/3 scoreless innings.

Cal Gates was the Dawgs’ top offensive performer, going 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a stolen base. Ricky Sanchez and Jordan Kievman added one hit each.

The Dawgs will look to even the series in Game 2 on Wednesday at Gulls Stadium. The game will get underway at 7:05 p.m.

August 11, 2026

By Ian Wilson

Western Canadian Baseball League

The final four is set.

Following the opening round of the Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) Postseason, the top four seeds have advanced to the Division Final Series.

The 42-14 Okotoks Dawgs disposed of the fourth-seeded Energy City Cactus Rats with a 24-7 win and a 16-6 victory to sweep the best-of-three series at Seaman Stadium and move onto the West Division Final.

The Dawgs will face the Sylvan Lake Gulls for a fifth straight postseason. The Gulls, who went 38-18 in the regular season, went the distance against the Lethbridge Bulls. Sylvan Lake defeated the Bulls in the series opener by a 9-2 score at Gulls Field, dropped the second game at Spitz Stadium 10-3, and held on for a 3-2 triumph in the third and deciding matchup.

In the East Division, the 41-15 Moose Jaw Miller Express swept the Medicine Hat Mavericks with 10-9 and 12-5 wins.

The Millers now face the Saskatoon Berries, who had their hands full with the defending champion Regina Red Sox. Saskatoon claimed the opener with a 7-3 victory at NexGen Patch at Cairns Field, fell 5-3 at Currie Field, and then came out on top in the third installment of the series with a 5-3 win in front of their purple-clad home crowd.

With the contending field now reduced from 12 WCBL teams to four, the second round of the postseason gets underway on Tuesday, Aug. 11th in Okotoks and Moose Jaw.

Here's a closer look at the matchups:

WEST DIVISION FINAL

1. OKOTOKS DAWGS (42-14) vs. 2. SYLVAN LAKE GULLS (38-18)

The battle to be the best in the West comes down to a pair of Alberta rivals who have been locked on a collision course for years. The Dawgs first faced the Gulls in the postseason in 2022 and swept Sylvan Lake two straight summers. In 2024, the Gulls finished first overall in the WCBL regular season and pushed the Dawgs to the full three games but lost on home field. That set up the third consecutive title in a league championship three-peat for the Dawgs. Sylvan Lake finally got the better of Okotoks last year with a West Division Final sweep, before losing in the WCBL championship to the Regina Red Sox.

This rivalry gained even more depth in 2026 with the inaugural Road to Okotoks U19 national tournament, which culminated in a Morneau Cup victory for Dawgs Academy, who defeated Gulls Prep 11-5 in the final. Several players from both high school teams have since been added to the collegiate rosters in Okotoks and Sylvan Lake for their WCBL postseason runs.

It all sets up what should be a phenomenal West Division Final between the two clubs.

Through eight regular season matchups this year, the Dawgs won five games over the Gulls, including their final head-to-head duel at Gulls Field on Aug. 3rd by a 7-3 score.

Okotoks made quick work of the Cactus Rats in round one, outscoring Energy City 40-13 in the Seaman Stadium sweep.

The Dawgs offence was firing on all cylinders, receiving contributions up and down the lineup. Hitting leaders during those two games included third baseman Eric Machej (.600 batting average, four doubles, five RBI); first baseman Nash Crowell (2.156 OPS, one home run, five RBI, one stolen base); outfielder Cal Gates (five hits, seven runs, two doubles, two stolen bases); outfielder Jordan Kievman (two homers, six RBI, .545 batting average); shortstop Ricardo Sanchez (five hits, five runs, three RBI) and outfielder Landon Kauffman (five runs, three RBI, two stolen bases).

While starting pitcher Brody Forno picked up the win in the series opener after striking out five batters through four innings, Okotoks also received standout mound performances from two-way player Emmett Stacher (1-0 record, six strikeouts, 3.50 ERA over two innings); Brody Burnette (two innings, two strikeouts, 3.50 ERA); Logan Rumberg (one inning, two strikeouts, no runs allowed); Matthew Tran (one inning, two strikeouts, no hits or runs allowed); and Will Labonte (two innings, one strikeout, no hits, no walks, no runs allowed).

The Sylvan Lake Gulls took a longer path to the West Division Final series, playing three games against the Lethbridge Bulls and emerging after a 3-2 nailbiter went their way in the third contest. The Gulls scored 15 runs in the first round and allowed 14 runs against.

Sylvan Lake's bats were led by outfielder Dominic Giusti (.818 on-base percentage, five hits, four walks); Australian outfielder Charlie Collins (six hits, one triple, one stolen base, 1.321 OPS); third baseman Johnboy Rittenhouse (two doubles, one triple, four RBI, three runs); and outfielder Elijha Hammill (three RBI, one double, two walks, .333 batting average).

On the mound, the Gulls received strong starts from Reece Hemmerling (five innings, one win, eight strikeouts, 1.40 ERA) and Matthew Mackenzie (5.2 innings, one win, three strikeouts, 2.47 ERA). Brayden Stewart was also highly effective in closing out the final game of the series against Lethbridge. He nabbed a save after generating five strikeouts and allowing no walks or runs over 3.1 innings. In addition, the Gulls also received solid bullpen efforts from Trent Chavez (two innings, four strikeouts, no runs, no walks, no hits); Seth Mahler (two innings, two strikeouts, 3.50 ERA); and Griffin Catto (one inning, two strikeouts, no walks, no runs).

Who will emerge as the top slugger in this next chapter between the Gulls and Dawgs? Which pitchers will shut the door when they're needed the most?

Those answers will become clear when the best-of-three series begins on Tuesday, Aug. 11, with opening pitch set for 7:05 p.m. at Seaman Stadium in Okotoks. Gulls Field will play host to the second game at 7:05 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12. If necessary, the third contest is set for 7:05 p.m. in Okotoks on Thursday, Aug. 13.

EAST DIVISION FINAL

1. MOOSE JAW MILLER EXPRESS (41-15) vs. 2. SASKATOON BERRIES (38-18)

The last time these two teams squared off in a postseason game it was absolute mayhem.

The third installment of the opening round matchup between the Saskatoon Berries and the Moose Jaw Miller Express in 2025 was a heavyweight tilt and both clubs were throwing haymakers. The Berries, who set a league record with 46 regular season wins, had built what seemed like a comfortable 10-3 lead heading into the eighth inning. The Miller Express cranked out eight hits, including a three-run homer off the bat of Eduardo Saenz, and took advantage of a fielding error and a pair of wild pitches to score nine runs and go up 12-10. It seemed like a nightmare end to the season was awaiting the Berries. But Saskatoon found a way to even the score in the bottom of the ninth. Following a three up, three down top of the 10th inning, the Berries started the bottom of the frame with a single from outfielder Ethan Murdoch and a walk from designated hitter Cory Wouters. Jalen Freeman loaded the bases with another single, setting up a childhood dream scenario for outfielder Carter Beck. After running the count full, the Carnduff, Saskatchewan product blasted an absolute no-doubter of a grand slam over the right-field fence to give the Berries the walkoff 16-12 win of the game, as well as the series victory. The improbable comeback of the Miller Express was wiped out by a flexing Beck bash that sent the 1,759 fans at NexGen Patch at Cairns Field in Saskatoon into hysterics.

This will be the third consecutive summer the Berries and Millers face each other in the postseason. While Saskatoon sent Moose Jaw packing last year, it was the Miller Express who ended the playoff run of the Berries in 2024, earning a 5-3 victory in the third and deciding game of the East Division Final that year.

During the 2026 regular season, the Berries faced the Miller Express eight times and won five of those matchups.

The Millers went to two WCBL Championship Finals recently - in 2022 and 2024 - but lost both times to the Okotoks Dawgs.

The Berries are still seeking their first East Division title and league championship appearance.

In getting to this point, Moose Jaw took care of the Medicine Hat Mavericks with a first-round sweep. The Miller Express outscored the Mavs 22-14 in the two games.

Driving the offence was third baseman Michael Rago (five hits, four runs, three RBI, one stolen base, 1.575 OPS) and outfielder William Edwards (three runs, three RBI, two doubles). The Millers also received production at the plate from outfielder Pacey Phillips (.500 batting average, two runs, one RBI, one stolen base); second baseman Ben Waliczek (four hits, two runs, two RBI); catcher Garryn Plummer (four runs, two RBI, one stolen base); designated hitter Jacob Mraz (one home run, three RBI); shortstop Thomas Soto (three runs, two RBI, three walks); outfielder Chris Franks (two runs, three RBI, one double); and first baseman Eduardo Saenz (two RBI, one run, one double).

The Miller Express only used four pitchers during the entire series. Southpaw Jacob Glazener earned a win by logging 6.2 innings, striking out three batters and registering a 4.20 ERA. After setting a single-season record for strikeouts (92) in the regular season, Westin Walls didn't get the win in his start but he did chew up six innings, generate four Ks and post a 5.83 ERA in the series opener. Jacob Quiles worked in relief in both games against Medicine Hat. Through his 4.1 innings, he picked up a win, piled up six punchouts and recorded a 1.62 ERA. Local product Nathan Pisio had one save while allowing no walks or runs in his one inning of work.

The Saskatoon Berries were able to get some payback on their journey to the second round.

By eliminating the defending WCBL champion Red Sox in three games - and outscoring them 15-11 in the trio of contests - the Berries avenged their postseason loss to Regina from last summer. A diving catch by Saskatoon outfielder Ethan Murdoch with two outs and the bases loaded in the sixth inning of Game 3, and a three-run homer from designated hitter Nick Stinson helped the Berries punch their ticket to the East Division Final.

In addition to the heroics of Stinson and Murdoch, who also had a home run in the series, Saskatoon also got big hits from shortstop Brock Laird (.545 batting average, three RBI, two runs); catcher Aiden Kilshaw (one homer, four RBI, three runs); outfielder Nash Nichols (two runs, two doubles, one stolen base); and outfielder Nathan Houston (three hits, two runs, one stolen base). Second baseman Gael Salinas, the WCBL batting champion during the regular season, only had one hit in his 11 at bats.

The pitching staff got outstanding performances from Zachary Landerville (six innings, 10 Ks, 1.17 ERA); Wesley Shackleford (five innings, one win, one save, nine strikeouts, zero runs allowed); and Augie Grohman (four innings, four strikeouts, 1.75 ERA). Lefthander Brooks Jones also picked up a win and two punchouts while allowing no walks or runs in his 2.2 innings on the mound. Diego Quinonez, Colin Plain and Dallen Rude all pitched one inning of scoreless baseball for the Berries. Merek Yeager was the only pitcher tagged with a loss, but he still managed five innings and four strikeouts against Regina.

The Miller Express earned home-field advantage in the series so the first game goes at 7:05 p.m. at Ross Wells Park on Tuesday, Aug. 11. The rematch shifts to NexGen Patch at Cairns Field in Saskatoon at 7:05 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12. If needed, a decisive third game is set for Moose Jaw at 7:05 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 13.

August 11, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

Over the course of his long and successful career, Rod Black has broadcast almost every sport.

But baseball is the sport he's most passionate about, he writes in his excellent new memoir, Cut to Black: A Legendary Life in Sports (and Maybe a Few Beers).

"It's a game I've had a love affair with since my boyhood days in Winnipeg, watching my heroes like Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, Reggie Jackson and Rod Carew (who earned my affection through our shared first name)," writes Black.

Many Canadians, however, know Black best for calling other sports. He has broadcast everything from golf to alpine skiing, from boxing to figure skating. He has hosted Winnipeg Jets games, Toronto Raptors telecasts and CFL coverage.

"Give me a sport, I am sure I have called it," writes Black. "And that includes pickleball, which I called off a stream."

So, it's not surprising to learn in his heartfelt and engrossing new memoir that he grew up in Winnipeg, obsessed with sports.

Black was a talented athlete during his youth, especially on the basketball court where he came close to attending Bemidji State University, a Div. II college in the U.S., on a scholarship before enrolling in the Red River Community College Creative Communications program.

In the book, Black shares that he grew up with two loving parents, Jack and Bonnie, and younger brothers Derrick, Sean and Ryan in the Winnipeg suburb known as Transcona. He played and watched as many sports as he could and he found himself mimicking the great broadcasters he heard – like Foster Hewitt, Danny Gallivan, Vin Scully, Howard Cosell and Don Chevrier.

"It may sound like crazy stuff, but I did that almost every day with every sport," writes Black. "I'd be on the rink, in the field, on the diamond, or in the street and I'd find my special place, tune into the broadcast booth in my brain, and then do what every kid should do – play and dream."

Black's first paid broadcasting gig was as a DJ at a local roller-skating rink. He then added a second gig at the Golden Oak, a local bar which unbenownst to 17-year-old Black, sometimes transformed into a strip club.

Word of Black's talents spread and in 1982, at the tender age of 19, he was hired by CKY-TV, a Winnipeg station, to be a sports reporter and late-night anchorman. Shortly thereafter, he became the host of the station's Jets' telecasts. It was while doing this that he met Gus Badali, Wayne Gretzky's agent, who encouraged him to move to Toronto to enhance his career.

Black eventually took Badali's advice. In November 1990, he was hired by CTV Sports in Toronto. Early on in his Toronto tenure, he shared a condo with Maple Leafs defenseman Dave Ellett. The home became party central for Leafs players with Black a very willing participant - so much so that Black received an angry answering machine message from Maple Leafs head coach Pat Burns asking him to tone things down.

"Just do me a f-ing favour: Make sure my f-ing defenceman gets some f-ing sleep at f-ing night," Burns' message said in part.

Black did settle down and became a star for CTV Sports.

In 1991, he got one of his dream jobs when he became the host of Toronto Blue Jays games on CTV.

On December 5, 1990, the Blue Jays dealt Fred McGriff and Tony Fernandez to the San Diego Padres for Joe Carter and Roberto Alomar in a blockbuster trade. So, 1991 was an exciting year for Black to work his first spring training.

"The most difficult decision I had all day was whether to use a 25 or 50 SPF for my sunscreen," writes Black in an example of his engaging writing style. "If any reporter complained to me about the grind of reporting from spring training, I immediately wanted to kick them in the shins."

That same year, Black hosted CTV's coverage of the MLB All-Star Game played at SkyDome in Toronto for the first - and, so far - only time.

Black recalls speaking with Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams before the game.

"For a young TV guy from Winnipeg who had dreamed about being in the big leagues, that whole night could not have been any cooler," writes Black.

One of the best stories Black shares illustrates his superhero-like devotion to his job.

In late July 1991, the Blue Jays had an afternoon game against the Chicago White Sox. Black didn't have to be in the downtown CTV studio until the middle of the fifth inning, so that morning he agreed to make an appearance for the network at the Lionhead Golf Club in Brampton, Ont., to promote an upcoming skins game.

But Black lost track of time and didn't leave the golf course until 11:30 a.m. On a good day, it was a 45-minute drive from Brampton to the CTV studio.

Black was making good time until he hit Lakeshore Boulevard where traffic was at a standstill. After barely moving for 30 minutes, he called his producer on his big clunky car phone to reassure him he'd still be at the studio on time.

But half an hour later, traffic was still stalled and the game was moving along quickly.

"It was in the top of the second inning when I decided I had to make a move," writes Black. "Desperate times call for desperate measures, I pulled over to the shoulder of the road, got out of the car still wearing my golf clothes, grabbed my suit, which was on a hanger, and then dashed through the maze of cars. People were probably wondering where this nutbar had come from and where he was going.

"I clumsily hurdled the concrete barrier and then, like a scene from Tom Cruise's Mission: Impossible, I had to dodge traffic going full speed the other way to make it across the road. I vaulted over another cement wall, continuing my sprint uphill for another kilometre until I hit a major intersection where I was fortunate enough to be able to hail a taxi."

His taxi would set "a land speed record" and get him to the front of the CTV building before the start of the bottom of the fourth inning.

He ran inside, mopped off the sweat, managed to get his shirt, tie and jacket on and did his studio job in the fifth inning wearing his golf shorts and spikes under the desk.

"Craziest thing of all is that around 6 p.m., when I returned to Lake Shore, fully expecting my car to have been towed away, there she was, still on the shoulder, middle of rush hour – no tickets, no damage, just waiting for me to take her home," writes Black.

Now that's devotion to a job, and also just one of the fantastic behind-the-scenes tales Black shares in the book with his natural story-telling flair.

Serving in a similar role on Blue Jays' broadcasts the following season, he got to experience the club winning their first World Series. The Blue Jays captured the title in Game 6 in Atlanta and Black was dispatched to the clubhouse to conduct interviews amidst the champagne showers.

He was in the middle of the clubhouse again the following year when the Blue Jays captured their second consecutive championship.

In the book, Black recalls that prior to Game 6 – in which Joe Carter would belt his walk-off World Series-winning home run – the Blue Jays slugger winked at him and said, "Rodney, we got this."

And that wouldn't be the last of Black's baseball highlights. In 1999, CTV Sportsnet (neither Sportsnet or the Blue Jays were owned by Rogers yet) secured the rights to a few dozen Blue Jays games and they asked Black to do the play-by-play, alongside Joe Carter (who has become a close friend and wrote the book's Foreword).

Black would later slide over to TSN and call Blue Jays games with Pat Tabler.

Black also includes a poignant passage about what it was like to watch his son, Tyler, make his major league debut with the Milwaukee Brewers.

And, of course, there's much more to Black than his great baseball stories. Black writes humorously about his life in broadcasting and the characters he has befriended, including Charles Barkley. He has interviewed presidents and prime ministers. And he even devotes a page to his legendary, trademark moustache.

"People tell me to this day, 'I don't recognize you without your moustache,'" writes Black. "Meanwhile, I haven't had one for twenty years."

Towards the conclusion of the book, Black is refreshingly candid about the callousness of the sports media industry in Canada. He sheds light on the ruthless way TSN/Bell Media let him go after more than three decades with them.

But the charismatic 63-year-old Black ends the book on a more positive note.

"My entire life has been about sports," he writes. "From my childhood to the present day. To this day, I will cover and announce for whatever sport and whatever game comes up. Because I love them all. Have microphone, will travel!"

And Canadian sports fans are fortunate that he will. Because not only have we have been lucky enough to witness his extraordinary career for close to four decades, but now he has pulled back the curtain on it for us in this heartfelt and hilarious memoir.

You can purchase the book here.

Calgary Redbirds and Junior National Team grad Michael Soroka (Calgary, Alta.) was activated from the 15-day injured list by the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday. He then tossed 4 1/3 scoreless innings for the D-Backs in their 9-0 win over the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field. Photo: Arizona Diamondbacks

August 11, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

After being activated from the 15-day injured list on Monday, Michael Soroka started and tossed 4 1/3 scoreless innings for the Arizona Diamondbacks in their 9-0 win over the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field.

Soroka (Calgary, Alta.) allowed three hits and struck out four in his first start since being sidelined with a glute strain on June 20. He threw 47 of his 77 pitches for strikes.

The Canuck pitcher told reporters he felt “good” after the game.

“I think there were a couple of pitches that got away here and there . . . But you can’t really nitpick too much when you have zeroes on the board, that’s the name of the game,” said Soroka. “And Gabby (catcher Gabriel Moreno) did a great job of kind of going with what was working tonight.”

Soroka’s performance lowered his ERA to 2.92 this season. He is 8-3 and has fanned 83 batters in 86 1/3 innings.

The win was the second in a row for the D-Backs and it helped them maintain their hold on the second Wild Card spot in the National League.

On June 19, Soroka was removed from his start against the Minnesota Twins after he experienced discomfort while warming up in the second inning.

It was a tough blow for the Canadian righty who seemed to have rediscovered the form that made him the runner-up for the National League Rookie of the Year award in 2019.

The 28-year-old Calgary Redbirds and Junior National Team grad is in his seventh major league campaign. In 107 career MLB games, he owns a 28-29 record with a 3.69 ERA and has 462 strikeouts in 502 innings.

Soroka also made two starts for Canada in the World Baseball Classic in March.

With Soroka’s return, the D-Backs have two Canadians in their starting rotation. Left-hander Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.) threw seven scoreless innings for the Diamondbacks on Wednesday.

August 7, 2026

Official MLB Press Release

Colorado Springs, Colo. - The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA) is proud to announce the 30 team winners of the 2026 Heart and Hustle Award.

Now in its 21st year, this prestigious honour is presented annually to active players who exemplify a true passion for the game and who best embody the values, spirit and traditions of the game. The Heart and Hustle Award is the only award in Major League Baseball that is voted on by former players. Voting for team winners is conducted prior to the All-Star break.

To determine the winners, the MLBPAA formed 30 committees comprised of alumni players with established relationships to each team. One player from each Major League team is chosen by the committees based on their passion, desire and work ethic demonstrated both on and off the field. At the conclusion of the season, all alumni members and fans will vote to select the final winner from the 30 team winners.

The previous overall recipients include: David Eckstein (2005), Craig Biggio (2006, 2007), Grady Sizemore (2008), Albert Pujols (2009), Roy Halladay (2010), Torii Hunter (2011), Mike Trout (2012), Dustin Pedroia (2013), Josh Harrison (2014), Anthony Rizzo (2015), Todd Frazier (2016), Brett Gardner (2017), Mookie Betts (2018), Howie Kendrick (2019), Ozzie Albies (2021), Paul Goldschmidt (2022), Marcus Semien (2023) and Bobby Witt Jr. (2024, 2025).

The 2026 overall Heart and Hustle Award winner will be announced in mid-November on MLB Network.

The 30 individual team winners are as follows:

American League

Athletics, Shea Langeliers

Baltimore Orioles, Pete Alonso

Boston Red Sox, Willson Contreras

Chicago White Sox, Sam Antonacci

Cleveland Guardians, José Ramírez

Detroit Tigers, Dillon Dingler

Houston Astros, Cam Smith

Kansas City Royals, Bobby Witt Jr.

Los Angeles Angels, Mike Trout

Minnesota Twins, Kody Clemens

New York Yankees, Paul Goldschmidt

Seattle Mariners, Luke Raley

Tampa Bay Rays, Chandler Simpson

Texas Rangers, Ezequiel Duran

Toronto Blue Jays, Ernie Clement

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks, Nolan Arenado

Atlanta Braves, Mauricio Dubón

Chicago Cubs, Nico Hoerner

Cincinnati Reds, Spencer Steer

Colorado Rockies, Jake McCarthy

Los Angeles Dodgers, Miguel Rojas

Miami Marlins, Otto Lopez (Montreal, Que.)

Milwaukee Brewers, Sal Frelick

New York Mets, Carson Benge

Philadelphia Phillies, Brandon Marsh

Pittsburgh Pirates, Jake Mangum

San Diego Padres, Ty France

San Francisco Giants, *Luis Arraez**

St. Louis Cardinals, JJ Wetherholt

Washington Nationals, Jacob Young

*Luis Arraez remains the San Francisco Giants nominee despite being acquired by a different team after the committee voting was finalized.

August 9, 2026

By Bob Elliott

Canadian Baseball Network

John Leonard was a member of the Team Canada senior team and attended the National Baseball Institute from 1986 to 1991.

And when SS Leonard (Oakville, Ont.) played he was usually in the midst of the action.

David Krug (Oakville, Ont.) was on the mound for Canada at the World senior championships in Edmonton. And Krug was in a tight spot: bases loaded none out, against The Netherlands.

The Dutch hitter lined a ball off the shoe of an off-balance Krug. The ball went to Leonard who threw a strike to 2B Barry Petachenko (Welland, Ont.), who fired to 1B Gary Van Tol (Pincher Creek, Alta.) for a double play.

Van Tol threw across the diamond and the Netherlands runner from third was eventually erased in a rundown. Triple play?

When Krug reached the dugout, he told coaches Bernie Beckman and Jim Ridley (Milton, Ont.) that the liner which hit him in the foot had not touched the ground on its way to Leonard. The Netherlands were taking the field -- a run up -- when Ridley emerged to argue. He told the umps that the first out was recorded when Leonard (Oakville, Ont.) caught the ball off Krug’s foot, the second out was made when Petachenko caught the ball at second and Van Tol was the third out at first base.

But had the runner at third tagged?

Canada took the field, appealed at third and the ump ruled he had not, taking The Netherlands run off the board.

Canada prevailed 7-6.

The point of the story is not to give you the results of the 1990 Worlds.

Leonard was with the 1985 Team Ontario … a teammate of Greg Hamilton’s. For Canada, he also competed in the 1987 Pan American Games and the 1996 Goodwill Games. Staying in Maple Ridge B.C., he played for the North Shore Twins and legendary Canadian Baseball Hall of Famer John Haar in 1987.He also played senior ball for the Port Coquitlam Athletics.

The news here is that John Leonard, son of Sam Leonard, has passed.

* * *

From his sister Annie Leonard:

**RIP JOHN LEONARD**

To all that knew, loved, and ever met Mike and my youngest brother, John Leonard …

It is with the utmost sadness and heartbreaking displeasure that I have to share this awful and devastating news. We are all in such disbelief of the unexpected tragedy and loss our family has just experienced.

During this long weekend in British Columbia, a completely anomalous camping accident has taken our Johnnie from us, and he has passed. Because he has so many friends and extended loved ones outside of our immediate family, this was the easiest way to notify everyone.

A long-standing Bylaw Officer with the City of Port Coquitlam for almost 30 years, passed away following an accident while off duty. He dedicated many years of service to our community and was known and respected by colleagues and residents alike for his unwavering commitment to public service and genuine care for those around him.

* * *

John was also well known in the community as an avid ball player and umpire.

“He was heck of a hitter a left-handed hitter, think Wade Boggs," said former teammate Kevin Briand. "He never gave in and rarely ever struck put.  He was also a great teammate. He had your back. Tough as nails. This is really sad news.

"John and Carol Haar, John Leonard and myself had lunch together just over a month ago.”

As a tribute to John, City Hall and Leigh Square will be lit in blue for one week starting this evening.

Our thoughts are with John’s family and all those who knew and cared for him during this difficult time.

Mid-Island Pirates and Junior National Team grad Connor Caskenette (Duncan, B.C.) has been named the Canadian Baseball Network’s Minor League Player of the Week after he had 10 hits in four games for the Miami Marlins’ double-A Pensacola Blue Wahoos. Photo: Pensacola Blue Wahoos

August 10, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

Connor Caskenette topped Canadian hitters in the affiliated minor league ranks with 10 hits and a .588 batting average last week.

For his efforts, the Miami Marlins catching prospect and Duncan, B.C. native has been named the Canadian Baseball Network’s Minor League Player of Week (Aug. 4 to Aug. 9).

Suiting up for the Marlins’ double-A Pensacola Blue Wahoos, Caskenette accumulated his 10 hits in just four games.

His standout week started with two singles and a stolen base in the Blue Wahoos’ 10-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays’ Montgomery Biscuits on Tuesday.

Caskenette added two more singles the following day before having one of the best games of his pro career on Friday. Hitting seventh and starting at catcher, Caskenette went 4-for-5 with three runs, a double, two RBIs and two stolen bases to propel the Blue Wahoos to a 13-11, 10-inning victory over the Biscuits.

The Canadian catcher topped the week off with two singles, two RBIs and two stolen bases in the Blue Wahoos’ 3-0 win on Saturday.

Caskenette’s strong week boosted his batting average from .200 to .252 in double-A this season.

The 24-year-old backstop batted .313 with seven home runs and 29 RBIs in 34 games with the Marlins’ High-A Beloit Sky Carp to begin the season.

Selected in the 12th round of the 2024 MLB draft by the Marlins, the Mid-Island Pirates and Junior National Team alum is in his third pro season.

2026 CBN Minor League Player of the Week winners

Opening Day to April 5 - Cal Quantrill (Port Hope, Ont.), Rangers

April 7 to April 12 - Dante Nori (Toronto, Ont.), Phillies

April 14 to April 19- Matt Wilkinson (Surrey, B.C.), Guardians

April 21 to April 26 - Eric Hartman (St. Albert, Alta.), Braves

April 28 to May 3 - Jonah Tong (Markham, Ont.), Mets

May 5 to May 10 - Jordan Woods (Oakville, Ont.), Royals

May 12 to May 17 - Emilien Pitre (Repentigny, Que.), Rays

May 19 to May 24 - Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.), Diamondbacks

May 26 to May 31 - Matt Wilkinson (Surrey, B.C.), Giants

June 2 to June 7 - Owen Gregg (Oakville, Ont.), Blue Jays

June 9 to June 14 - Tyler Boudreau (Middle Sackville, N.S.), Yankees

June 16 to June 21 - Abraham Toro (Longueuil, Que.), Royals

June 23 to June 28 - Tyson Moran (Wingham, Ont.), Royals

July 7 to July 12 - Tom Poole (Calgary, Alta.), Rays

July 14 to July 19 - Cedric De Grandpre (Saint-Simon-de-Bagot, Que.), Braves

July 21 to July 26 - Charles Davalan, (St-Bruno-De-Montarville, Que.), Dodgers

July 28 to Aug. 2 - Emilien Pitre (Repentigny, Que.), Rays (and now Mets)

Aug. 4 to Aug. 9 - Connor Caskenette (Duncan, B.C.), Marlins

Top Canadian Minor League Batters (August 4 to August 9)

Top Canadian Minor League Pitchers (August 4 to August 9)

August 10, 2026

By Matt Betts

Canadian Baseball Network

It was his sophomore season at Virginia Commonwealth University when former Terriers left-handed pitcher Campbell Ellis began thinking about his long-term future in baseball.

A chance to play professionally would’ve been a dream come true, but there was something about the ability to impact others on their journeys through the game as a coach that seemed equally as fulfilling.

"My passion for baseball has always been strong, but I fell in love with leadership and wanted to learn as much as possible,” Ellis said of his time as a player. “I was fortunate enough to be around some brilliant baseball minds and paid attention to how they led.”

Now, he’ll get the opportunity to lead a staff of his own as the new pitching coach at the College of William & Mary. The team made the hiring official on Aug. 3.

Ellis wasted no time pursuing his new path in the dugout after helping VCU win three Atlantic 10 Conference championships as a player during a career that spanned from 2021 to 2024.

In 2025, he joined the Rams staff as a graduate assistant coach before being named the program’s director of pitching development last season.

With his help, the Rams led the Atlantic 10 with a 4.57 team ERA, 8.13 hits per nine innings and 1.42 WHIP in 2026 on the way to winning another conference title and participating in the Chapel Hill Regional.

When Ellis (Georgetown, Ont.) was first recruited to play for the Rams, it was pitching coach Mike McRae (Niagara Falls, Ont.) who was part of the pitch. Six years later, it was another familiar face, Rob McCoy, swaying him down Interstate 64 East to Williamsburg, Va., to become the new pitching coach at William & Mary.

Recruiting Canadians isn’t foreign to McCoy, as he’s signed countless Canucks over the years during his time at Niagara University and now with the Tribe.

“I’ve known coach McCoy since I was in high school and he was the head coach at Niagara,” Ellis said. “I’ve always looked at him as a great person, leader and coach, so when I saw this opportunity open it was a no-brainer that I wanted to work with him.”

Ellis also cites Jojo Howie, Sean Thompson and Seth Voltz at VCU as having an instrumental impact on his playing career and pursuit of becoming a coach.

With players arriving on campus and school beginning later this month, Ellis is busy preparing for his first season at the head of a staff.

“I want to be the type of coach that cares deeply about my players, and a coach who will do everything in my power to help them succeed on and off the field,” he said. “I'm excited to work with phenomenal people and immediately make an impact in each of our player's careers and lives. I want to help guide these young men to be the best versions of themselves.”

August 10, 2026

Baseball Canada

SUMMERSIDE, PEI – Québec turned an opening-day setback into a national championship run.

Québec defeated British Columbia 12–6 in Sunday evening’s gold-medal game at Legends Field to capture the 2026 Baseball Canada Cup, completing a six-game winning streak after dropping their first game of the tournament.

Québec’s road to gold began with a narrow 3–2 loss to Ontario on Wednesday morning, but the team responded later that day in a high-scoring battle against British Columbia. Québec outlasted B.C. 13–8 in extra innings to earn its first victory and never looked back.

Victories over Manitoba and Saskatchewan followed to close round robin play before Québec edged Alberta 2–1 in Quarter-Final action on Saturday. The offence then came alive on Championship Sunday, defeating New Brunswick 12–2 in the semifinal to secure a rematch with British Columbia for gold.

The championship game brought together two teams that had already combined for 21 runs in their first meeting, and the rematch again featured plenty of offence. Québec put 12 runs on the board to defeat B.C. 12–6 and finish the championship with a 6–1 overall record.

British Columbia earns silver after strong run

British Columbia reached the championship game after putting together a strong stretch of its own.

Following the extra-inning loss to Québec on opening day, B.C. responded with three consecutive victories to close preliminary play, defeating Saskatchewan 7–2, Ontario 14–4 and Manitoba 12–6.

The momentum carried into the weekend. British Columbia shut out Saskatchewan 2–0 on Saturday before earning a 3–1 semifinal victory over Alberta on Sunday morning to advance to the gold-medal game.

The silver medal capped a 5–2 tournament for British Columbia, with both losses coming against eventual champion Québec.

Five-run seventh sends Alberta to bronze

Alberta saved its most dramatic rally of the tournament for its final inning.

New Brunswick appeared poised to claim bronze after building an early advantage and carrying a 6–2 lead into the bottom of the seventh inning. New Brunswick scored twice in each of the first two innings and added single runs in the fourth and sixth, while Alberta had managed only a run in the first and another in the fifth.

With the bronze medal on the line, Alberta’s offence came alive.

Alberta erased the four-run deficit with a five-run rally in the bottom of the seventh, completing a 7–6 walk-off victory and securing a place on the podium.

It was the second closely contested meeting between Alberta and New Brunswick during the championship. Alberta also earned an 8–6 victory when the teams met during preliminary play.

Alberta entered the playoff portion of the tournament after a perfect preliminary round, earning victories over Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. After falling 2–1 to Québec on Saturday, Alberta rebounded with a 7–2 quarterfinal victory over Manitoba before dropping a 3–1 semifinal to British Columbia.

The comeback against New Brunswick allowed Alberta to finish the tournament on a winning note and claim bronze.

New Brunswick finished fourth following a strong playoff run. After going 2–2 during preliminary play, New Brunswick defeated Saskatchewan 10–2 in the quarterfinal before falling to Québec in the semifinal.

August 10, 2026

Baseball Canada

TECUMSEH, ONT. – The Windsor Selects are national champions once again.

The Selects, representing Ontario 2, shut out the Carillon Sultans (Manitoba) 5–0 in Sunday’s gold-medal game at Bert Lacasse Park to capture the 2026 22U National Championship.

The victory capped a remarkable tournament for Windsor, which navigated one of the tightest preliminary rounds imaginable on its way back to the national championship game. All five of the Selects' round-robin contests were decided by a single run, including a 7–6 loss to Carillon in the teams' first meeting on Friday.

Windsor opened the tournament with a 3–2 victory over the Halifax Mets (Nova Scotia 2) before edging the Sarnia Brigade (Ontario 1) 10–9 later that day.

A one-run loss to the Sultans followed before the Selects bounced back with a 3–2 win over the host Tecumseh Thunder. The narrow margins continued Saturday when the Dartmouth Renegades (Nova Scotia 1) handed Windsor its second loss of the tournament in a 12–11 battle.

Despite the two defeats, Windsor's 3–2 record was enough to secure a spot in the gold-medal game and another opportunity against Carillon.

This time, with the national title on the line, the Selects turned the tables.

Windsor kept the Sultans off the scoreboard in a 5–0 victory to successfully defend its national championship and secure a second consecutive 22U title.

The Selects also captured gold at the 2025 championship in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, shutting out the host Dartmouth Renegades 2–0 in the final behind a complete-game, two-hit performance from Brady Knelsen.

Carillon Sultans earn silver after strong preliminary round

The Carillon Sultans entered the championship game as the tournament's top seed after posting a 4–1 record through preliminary play.

Carillon opened with consecutive victories, defeating the Sarnia Brigade 6–3 and Tecumseh Thunder 5–4. The Sultans' only preliminary-round loss came Friday morning in a 7–4 decision against the Dartmouth Renegades before they responded later that afternoon with a 7–6 victory over Windsor.

The Sultans punched their ticket to the gold-medal game with a 13–8 victory over the Halifax Mets on Saturday.

Carillon broke that game open with seven runs in the second inning, highlighted by RBI singles from Cody Wielgosh, Brady Papineau, Ryan Powers and Dayton Christensen. Wielgosh finished with three hits, while Papineau and Christensen drove in three runs apiece.

Cedric Lagasse worked five and two-thirds innings on the mound, striking out eight to help send the Sultans to the national championship game.

The silver medal adds to a strong run for Carillon, which entered the event after capturing a third consecutive Manitoba Junior Baseball League championship. The Sultans also reached the podium at the 2025 22U National Championship, earning bronze with a 7–6 walk-off victory over Ontario.

Halifax Mets edge Sarnia Brigade for bronze

The Halifax Mets finished their tournament on the podium with a 6–5 victory over the Sarnia Brigade in Sunday's bronze-medal game.

The matchup marked the second meeting of the tournament between the two clubs. Halifax also earned a 6–3 victory over Sarnia during preliminary play on Friday.

The Mets finished the preliminary round with a 2–3 record before falling 13–8 to Carillon on Saturday. They responded with a one-run victory when the bronze medal was on the line to close the championship on a winning note.

Sarnia also completed preliminary play with a 2–3 record. The Brigade recorded victories over Dartmouth and Tecumseh, including a convincing 13–3 win over the host Thunder to close its round-robin schedule.

Halifax's victory secured bronze, while Sarnia completed the championship in fourth place.

*This article was originally published on Saskatchewan Dugout Stories on August 4, 2026. You can read it here.

August 10, 2026

By Joe McFarland

Saskatchewan Dugout Stories

It was one last run with the boys.

Many of the 20 young men who made up the Baseball Sask roster for The Road to Okotoks had the opportunity to be teammates over the last few years.

From suiting up with their respective community teams to joining forces for national tournaments, “tight” only begins to explain how they felt going to Baseball Canada’s inaugural 19U national championship.

Different from the other programs in that this was a provincial team instead of an academy squad, head coach Greg Brons brought many of the same players who went to the 2025 Canada Summer Games in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

They embraced the underdog tag that seems to always follow Team Saskatchewan and tried to enjoy their final roadtrip as a group.

“You play against these guys in league but it’s not the same as when you’re all walking out there together to jog the field and everything,” outfielder Trentin Kooy told Saskatchewan Dugout Stories. “The environment, the team … it’s honestly everything to me.”

While the team finished 2-2 in round-robin play and were frustrated in not getting into the playoff rounds on a tiebreaker, they were thankful for the opportunity to come together one more time to take part in the first-ever national tournament.

GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION

Kooy was among the 15 athletes who were first called to represent Saskatchewan at the 2023 Baseball Canada Cup in Laval, Que.

It was there where he first got to really know some future long-time teammates like Mitchell and Casey Rauckman, Reid Olfert, Pryor Dyck and Mason Fauser.

Kooy had played with some of them at Going Yard Academy in Saskatoon, but he says there’s something special about playing in national tournaments.

“Meeting new guys and new teams is probably the best part of it,” said the right-handed slugger. “You get to make new friends for life, so it’s something you can’t complain about, that’s for sure.”

After finishing eighth at that tournament, some of those same players were called back again for the 2024 Baseball Canada Cup, where they improved their performance by capturing fourth place.

BUILDING SOMETHING SPECIAL

Where the vibes really hit another level was in 2025 when many of the players who went to Okotoks were invited to the Canada Summer Games.

Again taking on the role of underdog, Team Sask rode strong hitting and pitching performances to capture the bronze medal.

It proved to the team that they could compete with the supposed “big dogs” around the country.

“Our coaches always tell us that it’s the same game, no matter who is watching or who we’re playing,” said catcher Aiden Kilshaw. “It’s the same fun game, so trust your teammates, do your best, and just go out there and play.”

With many of the players being 17 or 18, they didn’t know if it would be their last chance to all play together, so they soaked in the moments on and off the field.

THE ROAD TO OKOTOKS

The opportunity to get together one more time reared its head with the inaugural Morneau Cup.

Dubbed the “first academy national championship,” Team Sask bucked that trend by getting permission to send a provincial team to the Prairie Qualifiers in Lethbridge and Vauxhall.

They finished 4-0 during the round-robin before falling 9-5 to Vauxhall in the semi-final. With the rest of the qualifier rained out, Sask was one of four teams invited to the main event in Okotoks.

Believing so much in the team he had assembled, and wanting to keep the whole team full of Saskatchewan players, Brons opted not to take anyone in the Morneau Cup Draft despite having the first overall pick.

“I like just having our team that got us here and we did really well in the qualifiers, so I totally agreed with it,” Kilshaw said. “I like all these guys and we play well together.”

THE QUEST FOR A TITLE

Stepping off the bus in Okotoks, infielder Cade Britz says the message from the Team Sask coaching staff was simple.

“Let’s go to war.”

Despite a 5-2 loss to the Mississauga Tigers to start off the round robin, it was a hard-nosed affair that sent a message to the rest of the teams that they weren’t going to be a push-over.

They followed that up with a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to the Abbotsford Cardinals, where the only mistake on Mitchell Rauckman’s great day on the hill was a solo homer given up to Ryland Peters.

Sask then returned the favour with a 1-0 nailbiter over the UBC Thunder, where Britz won it with a walk-off walk while Pryor Dyck struck out seven in a complete-game three-hitter.

They wrapped up the round-robin with a convincing 16-0 mercy win over the Ontario Terriers, who were not in their pool. Rhett Anderson hit a home run while four players had two RBIs in what they called a “complete team win.”

With every program in Pool B finishing with a 2-2 record, the tiebreaker came down to how each did within their pool, leaving Sask on the outside looking in.

While obviously disappointed and frustrated that they couldn’t pull out another win in the first two games, the players took it all in stride.

“We’re just trying to have some fun and enjoy the time we have together around the park and at the hotel,” Kooy said after he took part in the tournament’s Home Run Derby.

“I don’t think anyone’s too mad. We just wish we could have hit a little better, but that’s how it is and there’s nothing we can do about it now, so just move on.”

Team Sask finished the tournament with an 8-5 win in a placement game against the DT Selects out of Quebec.

SETTING THE STANDARD

With their high school careers now over, many of the players are now embarking on the next steps of their respective journeys.

Kooy is heading to Crowder Community College, Kilshaw has committed to Blinn Community College, and the Rauckman brothers will go their separate ways with Mitchell to North Dakota State University and Casey to Southwestern Illinois Junior College, among others.

Each says they will take the memories they created as a team with them forever.

“We’ve always been very close and lots of us grew up together,” said Dyck, who is uncommitted and is coming off being named the Saskatchewan Premier Baseball League Pitcher of the Year. “We grew up playing baseball together so, yeah, we’re a pretty tight group.”

And as much as they wanted to bring home a medal from The Road to Okotoks, Kooy says they successfully made their mark and set the expectations high for the next teams from Saskatchewan.

“In 10 years, we will be able to say we were the first ones,” he said. “It’s the first step to what can be the new future and it’s kind of the building block. To be a part of that is so awesome.”

August 8, 2026

By Rhett Vasseur

Okotoks Dawgs

The Okotoks Dawgs closed out their first round playoff series with a dominant 16-6 win over the Energy City Cactus Rats in front of 4,111 fans at Seaman Stadium on Saturday night.

With the win, the Dawgs swept the best-of-three series and advanced to the West Division final.

The Dawgs’ bats were led by Landon Kauffman (Vancouver, B.C.) who went 2-for-2 with two RBIs and two walks.

Matt Evans (Tillsonburg, Ont.) also had a good night at the plate, going 2-for-4 with an RBI and a walk.

Eric Machej (Edmonton, Alta.) pitched in with three hits and two runs.

On the mound, the Dawgs received a four-inning start from Evan Lehnert in his playoff debut.

Emmett Stacher then had a great relief outing, going two strong innings allowing one run while striking out six.

Reid Madriaga also continued his scoreless streak with another great appearance.

The next game for the Dawgs will be Game 1 of the WCBL West Division Final on Tuesday. The Dawgs will play the winner of the series between the Lethbridge Bulls and Sylvan Lake Gulls. First pitch on Tuesday is set for 7:05 p.m.

August 9, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

Some Canadian baseball news and notes:

Bratt picks up first MLB win

Arizona Diamondbacks left-hander Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.) dominated the San Diego Padres on Wednesday, allowing just one hit in seven scoreless innings, to pick up his first major league win.

The Toronto Mets and Junior National Team alum struck out nine batters and threw 55 of his 92 pitches for strikes.

It was his sixth start with the D-Backs this season and his longest outing.

Here are some more impressive starts from the start:

Hicks belts first MLB grand slam in first game with Rays

After being dealt to the Tampa Bay Rays by the Miami Marlins on Monday, Liam Hicks (Toronto, Ont.) promptly belted his first major league grand slam in his first game with his new club the next day.

Batting cleanup for the Rays, Hicks socked the grand slam with two outs in the third inning off Colorado Rockies right-hander Gabriel Hughes. The Rays won the game 9-7 in 11 innings.

With the grand slam, Hicks has 66 RBIs this season, which is the most by any Canadian major leaguer.

Here are the top five Canadians in MLB RBIs this season:

66 – Liam Hicks

53 – Otto Lopez

50 – Owen Caissie

46 – Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

42 – Josh Naylor

Lopez still leading MLB in hits

We are now more than 115 games into the MLB season and Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez is still leading MLB hitters with 145 hits.

He also ranks third in batting average (.317), trailing only Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez (.325) and Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Luis Arraez (.324).

The 27-year-old Lopez, who spent part of his youth in Montreal, is also tied for second in the majors with seven triples and ranks third in the National League among position players with a 5.3 bWAR (Baseball Reference Wins Above Replacement).

Lopez has played for Canada at the last two World Baseball Classics.

Naylor goes deep twice for Mariners

Josh Naylor (Mississauga, Ont.) belted two solo home runs for the Seattle Mariners on Saturday.

It was the sixth two-homer game of his career.

Unfortunately for the Mariners, those two runs were the team’s only runs in their 3-2 loss to the Rays.

Naylor now has 10 home runs this season, which gives him five consecutive double-digit homer campaigns in the majors.

In total, the Ontario Blue Jays and Junior National Team grad has 114 MLB home runs which is the 11th most by a Canadian.

Carter named All-Star Game MVP 45 years ago

It was 45 years ago today that Montreal Expos catcher Gary Carter belted two home runs in the MLB All-Star Game to propel the National League to a 5-4 win over the American League.

Both of Carter’s homers were solo shots. He went deep in the fifth inning off Ken Forsch and in the seventh inning off Ron Davis.

For his efforts, Carter was named the game’s MVP.

Toronto Blue Jays ace Dave Stieb got the final five outs for the American League in his second All-Star Game appearance.

It was the first MLB game played after a 50-day players’ strike that year. It was contested in front of 72,086 fans at Cleveland Stadium.

O’Neill hits another pinch-hit home run

Baltimore Orioles outfielder Tyler O’Neill (Maple Ridge, B.C.) clubbed his third pinch-hit home run of the season on Tuesday. It was a solo shot off Los Angeles Angels left-hander Mitch Farris in the eighth inning of an O’s 3-2 win.

O’Neill also smacked a two-run home run in the fourth inning against Angels’ lefty Reid Detmers in the O’s 5-2 victory the next day.

The Langley Blaze and Junior National Team grad now has nine home runs this season.

In his last 15 games, O’Neill is 12-for-37 (.324) with three home runs.

Happy Birthday to Jeff Zimmerman!

Happy 54th Birthday to Jeff Zimmerman (Kelowna, B.C.)!

The Canuck right-hander honed his skills with the Junior National Team, but went undrafted. So, in 1993, he headed to France to play for a team called the Barracudas de Montpellier and worked on his slider. He eventually returned to Canada and signed with the independent Northern League’s Winnipeg Goldeyes in 1997 where he posted a 2.82 ERA in 18 appearances, including 16 starts.

The following January, the Texas Rangers purchased his contract from the Goldeyes and after he recorded a 1.28 ERA in 51 appearances at the High-A and double-A levels in 1998, he made the big league roster the following spring.

His first half of the 1999 campaign with the Rangers was one for the ages. In 35 appearances, he went 8-0 with a 0.86 ERA and allowed just 18 hits in 52 1/3 innings. It earned the 26-year-old rookie a spot on the American League All-Star team. He’d finish that season with a 2.36 ERA in 65 games.

He’d pitch for two more seasons with the Rangers, becoming the team’s closer and notching 28 saves in 2001. Unfortunately, the next year he was forced to undergo Tommy John surgery and then a second surgery. He initially retired in 2006 but then attempted a comeback with the Mariners in 2009, but he retired for good after one minor league appearance.

Pivetta suffers setback in rehab start

San Diego Padres right-hander Nick Pivetta (Victoria, B.C.) abruptly left his rehab start with the low-A Lake Elsinore Storm after his 14th pitch on Tuesday when he experienced tightness in his throwing elbow.

He later managed to throw 30 pitches under the stadium, but the Padres have paused his rehabilitation program.

The veteran right-hander has been sidelined since April 14 with right elbow inflammation (later diagnosed as a flexor strain).

The Padres were hoping he’d be able to return for the stretch run, but that’s now in doubt.

The injury could also impact his contract with the Padres. In February 2025, he signed a four-year, $55-million contract that included opt-outs after the 2026 and 2027 seasons. However, the Padres also negotiated an injury protection clause that stipulates that if Pivetta were to miss 130 consecutive days on the injured list in the one of the first two seasons of the contract that a conditional $14-million team option would be triggered for the 2027 season. This team option would also void his opt-out clauses and the final two years of his contract. He was to be paid $14 million in 2027 and $18 million in 2028. Pivetta would have to return by August 22 to stay under 130 consecutive days on the injured list.

The 33-year-old Canadian, who was the Padres’ Opening Day starter, has made just four starts with the Padres this season after being the team’s ace in 2025.

The former Victoria Eagles and Junior National Team pitcher is in his 10th MLB season.

Anniversary of Guerrero’s 200th MLB home run

It was 24 years ago today that Vladimir Guerrero belted his 200th home run as an Expo. It was a solo home run in the top of the ninth inning off Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Mike DeJean in an Expos’ 11-4 win over the Brewers at Miller Park.

With that, Guerrero became just the fourth Expo to reach the 200-home run mark, joining Andre Dawson (225), Gary Carter (220) and Tim Wallach (204).

Happy Birthday Ryan Radmanovich!

Happy 55th Birthday to national team alum, former Olympian and ex-Mariners outfielder Ryan Radmanovch (Calgary, Alta.)!

Selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 14th round of the 1993 MLB draft, the 6-foot-2 outfielder/first baseman toiled in the affiliated minor pro ranks for 10 seasons and made his big league debut for the Mariners in 1998, batting .217 with two home runs in 25 games.

He later played seven seasons in the independent ranks, primarily with the Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League. In all, including his tenure in the independent circuits, Radmanovich belted 271 home runs in 17 professional seasons. He also suited up for the national team on several occasions, including at the 2004 and 2008 Olympics.

Macko assigned to Rangers’ triple-A affiliate

In a surprising deadline deal, the Blue Jays dealt left-hander Adam Macko (Stony Plain, Alta.) to the Rangers for utility infielder Josh Smith and right-hander Josh Stephan.

Macko has since reported to the Rangers’ triple-A Round Rock Express. He pitched two innings in his debut with the Express on Thursday.

The 25-year-old Macko made his MLB debut with the Blue Jays on May 18 and then proceeded to post a 4.91 ERA in 22 relief appearances with them.

Macko grew up in Stony Plain, Alta. and honed his skills at the Vauxhall Academy before being selected in the seventh round of the 2019 MLB draft by the Mariners. He pitched parts of three seasons in the Mariners’ organization prior to being traded to the Blue Jays, along with reliever Erik Swanson, for outfielder Teoscar Hernandez on November 16, 2022.

Macko also toed the rubber in three games for Canada at the World Baseball Classic in March.

August 8, 2026

By Bob Elliott

Canadian Baseball Network

Each year we try and answer some questions that the new draft class might have ….

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the purpose of this draft list?

A: This began in 1995 to promote players in Canada, creating interest in amateur players and alert people to potential players.

Q: Does my name appearing on a list assure me of being drafted?

A: No, the list is a compilation of opinions. Opinions change, the only opinions that really matters are those of the scouting director or area scout who is in the draft room, on draft day.

Q: What makes you an expert on ranking players?

A: Never claimed to be an expert, the list is compiled after conversations with scouting directors, cross checkers and area scouts both in Canada and the United States.

Q: How can a player go up on the list when he does not even play in during the winter months?

A: Players improve or players show well for scouts at an indoor workout or at various showcases.

Q: It bothers me when a new list appears and I have dropped a few spots, is that natural?

A: The first time I accompanied Blue Jays scouts on the road in 1990 for four days we went to a game at Huntington Beach, Calif. for the state championships. Three future big-league general managers were there and when the pitcher came out to warm up everyone crowded around the screen with guns. I said to the one scout, “Shouldn’t we move away, we’re going to make the poor kid nervous?” The scout looked at me, raised an eyebrow and said in a tone a grade 2 teacher might use to one of her students, “If this pitcher is going to get nervous in front of 15 scouts with guns, what is he going to do when he has to throw a 3-2 pitch with the bases loaded in a one-run game, with 50,000 people booing him at Yankee Stadium?” Cold, but that’s the way the business is. If you choose baseball as a profession, or to help you get your education, there will be plenty of bumps in the road, a lot bumpier than a list of names. Learn to not let it bother you. Either cope, or ignore. Far greater worries lie ahead than dropping a few spots on a list.

Q: What can I do to get my name on the list?

A: Impress scouts.

Q: Why would a scout tell you whom he would take in the draft?

A: He doesn’t. The question we always ask is who do you think will be the top Canadians drafted, not which Canadian will your team hope to select?

Q: Why are so many Ontario players on the list?

A: Including the 2026 draft — and counting when only Canadians attending school in the US (1985-90) were eligible for the draft — Ontario has had the most players drafted each year except for 1997 and 2004 when British Columbia had the most. Ontario was second. The reason? Population density. Total number of players drafted since 1985: Ontario 472, British Columbia 270, Quebec 122, Alberta 101, Saskatchewan 33, Manitoba 25, Nova Scotia 18, New Brunswick 13, Newfoundland 4 and Prince Edward Island 2.

Q: Has the draft being shortened to 40 rounds from 20 had an affect on the number of Canadians drafted?

Yes, just as the elimination of draft and follow (which allowed a club to talk with a player for 51 weeks unless he went to a four-year school) process cut back on the number of Canadian, so did the reduction of rounds. There were roughly eight Canadians chosen in rounds 41-to-50.

Q: Do scouts go off talent or results?

A: Few go off results, but signability — will the player attend a four-year university or will he sign before the deadline? (If he attends a four-year school he is not eligible to be drafted after his junior year ... or unless he is over the age of 21.) Does he want more money than the club thinks he is worth? It is as important an issue as projectability and ability. The list is based on talent as it is difficult to separate rumors from truth on what a player asks a club for. If a player asks Team A for $X amount … it’s up to the team or the player to say it’s too high or just right.

Q: Can a player expect to be drafted if he isn’t on your list?

A: Yes, it happens, each and every July,

Q: How can Player A be ranked higher than Player B when he doesn’t play as well in my opinion?

A: Some scouts look at projectability, that is, what they expect the player to be 4-5 years down the road and some players may have already peaked. As the saying goes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Q: Why do you include where players rank from other lists on your list?

A: Everyone doesn’t have access to the other lists. The more information the better.

Q: How accurate have you been with your lists?

2026

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Taj Marchand 1. Carter Beck

2. Sean Duncan 2. Taj Marchand

3, Elliot Lascelles 3. Connor Comeau

4. Carter Beck 4. Elliot Lascelles

5. Deiten Lachance 5. Sean Duncan

Ranked in the top 4: 80%

Ranked in the top 10: (8): 80%

Overall drafts: 10 (14): 71.4

Post-draft free-agent signs and draft in the top 20: (12) 60%

2025

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Tyler Bremner 1. Tyler Bremner

2. Slater de Brun 2. Slater de Brun

3. Charles Davalan 3. Charles Davalan

4. Micah Bucknam 4. Cam Leiter

5. Tim Piasentin 5. Will Hynes

Ranked in the top 5: (five drafted): 100%

Ranked in the top 10: (10): 100%

Overall drafts: 19 (16): 84.2%

Drafted and free-agent signs in July: 27 (22) 78.6.

2024

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Dante Nori 1. Dante Nori

2. Nathan Flewelling 2. Emilien Pitre

3. Emilien Pitre 3. Nathan Flewelling

4. Brendan Lawson 4. LP Langevin

5. LP Langevin 5. Josiah Romeo

Ranked in the top 5: (five drafted): 100%

Ranked in the top 11: (9): 81.1%

Overall: 17 (13): 76.5%

Drafted and free-agent signs: 19 (14): 73.7%

2023

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Myles Naylor 1. Myles Naylor

2. Connor O’Halloran 2. Kyle Carr

3. Matt Duffy 3. Matt Duffy

4. Jorge Valdes 4. Connor O’Halloran

5. Micah McDowell 5. Sam Shaw

Ranked in the top 5: (three drafted): 60%

Ranked in the top 13: (7): 54%

Overall: 10 (8): 80%

Drafted and free-agent signs: 12 (9): 75%

2022

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Jacob Zibin 1. Dylan O’Rae

2. Adam Maier 2. Lamar King

3. Lamar King 3. David McCabe

4. Eli Saul 4. Nate Ochoa

5. Matthew Grabmann 5. Jonah Tong

Ranked in the top 5: (four drafted): 80%

Ranked in the top 20: ( 10): 50%

Overall: 15 (13): 86.7%

Drafted and free-agent signs: 20 (16): 80%

2021

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Tyler Black 1. Tyler Black

2. Calvin Ziegler 2. Calvin Ziegler

3. Denzel Clarke 3. Denzel Clarke

4. Eric Cerantola 4. Mitch Bratt

5. Jordan Marks 5. Eric Cerantola

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 80%

Ranked in the top 12: (11): 91.7%

Overall: 18 (17): 94.4%

2020

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Owen Caissie 1. Owen Caissie

2. Jordan Nwogu 2. Trei Cruz

3. David Calabrese 3. David Calabrese

4. Noah Skirrow 4. Jordan Nwogu

5. Calvin Ziegler 5, Logan Hofmann

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 60%

Ranked in the top 10: (5): 100%

Overall: 5 (5): 100%

2019

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

Final Project list Top Canucks drafted

1. Dasan Brown 1. Dasan Brown

2. Josh Burgmann 2. Jacob Sanford

3. Jacob Sanford 3. Matt Brash

4. Edouard Julien 4. Josh Burgmann

5. Matt Brash 5. Adam Macko

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 20: (15): 75%

Overall: 25 (27): 92.6%

2018

Final Project list Top Canucks drafted

1. Noah Naylor 1. Noah (Bo) Naylor

2. Tristan Pompey 2. Tristan Pompey

3. RJ Freure 3. Kole Cottam

4. Eric Cerantola 4. RJ Freure

5. Nick Trogrlic-Iverson 5. Erik Sabrowski

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 15: (10): 67%

Overall: 21 (15): 71.4%

2017

Final Project list Top Canucks drafted

1. Landon Leach 1. Landon Leach

2. Adam Hall 2. Adam Hall

3. Zach Pop 3. Zach Pop

4. Clayton Keyes 4. Daniel Procopio

5. Jason Willow 5. Jonathan Lacroix

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 20: (12): 60%

Overall: 23 (20): 86.9%

2016

Final Project list Top Canucks drafted

1. Cal Quantrill 1. Cal Quantrill

2. Andrew Yerzy 2. Andrew Yerzy

3. Curtis Taylor 3. Curtis Taylor

4. Jordan Balazovic 4. Charles LeBlanc

5. Austin Shields 5. Jordan Balazovic

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 15: (14): 93.3%

Overall: 27 (24): 88.9%

2015

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Josh Naylor 1. Josh Naylor

2. Mike Soroka 2. Mike Soroka

3. Demi Orimoloye 3. Jeff Degano

4. Jeff Degano 4. Miles Gordon

5. Ryan Kellogg 5. Demi Orimoloye

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 20: (16): 80%

Overall: 30 (25): 83.3%

2014

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Gareth Morgan 1. Gareth Morgan

2. Brock Dykxhoorn 2. Brock Dykxhoorn

3. Zach Pop 3. Jordan Romano

4. Mitch Robinson 4. Jordan Procyshen

5. Michael Foster 5. Chris Shaw

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 15: (10): 66.7%

Overall: 16 (17): 94.1%

2013

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Rob Zastryzny 1. Rob Zastryzny

2. Tyler O’Neill 2. Tyler O’Neill

3. Cal Quantrill 3. Nick Pivetta

4. Nick Pivetta 4. Travis Seabrooke

5. Malik Collymore 5. Malik Collymore

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 20: (15): 75%

Overall: 21 (21): 100%

2012

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Ryan Kellogg 1. Eric Wood

2. Julian Service 2. David Otterman

3. Dayton Dawe 3. Rowan Wick

4. Derek Jones 4. Jeff Gibbs

5. Brock Dykxhoorn 5. Maxx Tissenbaum

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 20: (15): 75%

Overall: 26 (25): 96%

2011

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Tom Robson 1. Tom Robson

2. Dustin Houle 2. Trevor Gretzky

3. Jesen Dygestile-Therrien 3. Dustin Houle

4. Skylar Janisse 4. Chase Larsson

5. Vaughn Covington 5. Vaughn Covington

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 25: (20): 80%

Overall: 35 (29): 82.9%

2010

Final Projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Jameson Taillon 1. Jameson Taillon

2. Kellin Deglan 2. Kellin Deglan

3. James Paxton 3. Marcus Knecht

4. Marcus Knecht 4. Chris Bisson

5. Chris Bisson 5. James Paxton

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 30 (19): 63%

Overall 32 (29): 91.0%

2009

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. James Paxton 1. James Paxton

2. Jake Eliopoulos 2. Jake Eliopoulos

3. Josh Garton 3. Wes Darvil

4. Adam Nelubowich 4. Steven Inch

5. Mitch Clarke 5. Chad Stang

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 30 (23): 77%

Overall 43 (36): 83.7%

Former Toronto Blue Jays 3B Brett Lawrie (Langley, BC) was a first rounder by the Seattle Mariners.

2008

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Brett Lawrie 1. Brett Lawrie

2. Jordan Meaker 2. Andrew Albers

3. Carter Morrison 3. Brad Furdal

4. Lionel Morill 4. David Francis

5. Mike Crouse 5. Marcel Champaigne

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 25 (19): 76%

Overall 32 (29): 91%

2007

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Phillippe Aumont 1. Phillippe Aumont

2. Kyle Lotzkar 2. Kyle Lotzkar

3. Trystan Magnuson 3. Trystan Magnuson

4. Lars Davis 4. Lars Davis

5. Tim Smith 5. Mitch Hodge

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 25 (20): 80%

Overall 35 (27): 77.1%

2006

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Kyle Orr 1. Kyle Orr

2. Jonathan Waltenbury 2. Jonathan Baksh

3. Shayne Willson 3. Jonathan Waltenbury

4. Jimmy VanOstrand 4. Jimmy VanOstrand

5. Chris Kissock 5. Chris Toneguzzi

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 80%

Ranked in the top 30 (20): 67%

Overall 38 (31): 82%

2005

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Nick Weglarz 1. Chris Robinson

2. James Avery 2. Nick Weglarz

3. Chris Robinson 3. James Avery

4. Scott Richmond 4. Brad Cuthbertson

5. Brad Cuthbertson 5. Chris Leroux

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 30 (20): 67%

Overall 43 (35): 81%

2004

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Philippe-Alexandre Valiquette 1. Mike Nickeas

2. Mike Saunders 2. Craig Langille

3. Mike Nickeas 3. Philippe-Alexandre Valiquette

4. Alexandre Periard 4. Sebastien Boucher

5. Sebastien Boucher 5. Mike Saunders

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 30 (21): 70%

Overall 38 (32): 84%

2003

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Brooks McNiven 1. Brooks McNiven

2. Jamie Romak 2. Jamie Romak

3. Dustin Molleken 3. Cory Stuart

4. Ryan Braun 4. Ryan Braun

5. Cory Stuart 5. Matt Linder

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Ranked in the top 30 (23): 77%

Overall 46 (36): 73%

2002

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Adam Loewen 1. Adam Loewen

2. Jeff Francis 2. Jeff Francis

3. Jonathan Lockwood 3. Joey Votto

4. David Davidson 4. Jesse Crain

5. Chris Robinson 5. Chris Leroux

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 80%

Top 30 (24): 80%

Overall 48 (35): 73%

2001

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. John Axford 1. Adam Stern

2. Lee Delfino 2. Judd Richardson

3. Adam Stern 3. John Cole

4. John Picco 4. Steve Nelson

5. Steve Nelson 5. Lee Delfino

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Top 24 (24): 100%*

Overall 44 (33): 75%

*(Rich Harden, a 2000 draft, signed before the close period of the 2001 draft, thereby making him ineligible).

Scott Thorman (Cambridge, Ont.) who went to the Braves in the first round.

2000

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Scott Thorman 1. Scott Thorman

2. Michael Reiss 2. Shawn Hill

3. Shawn Hill 3. Nom Siriveaw

4. Stephen Reiss 4. Cory Agar

5. Jordan Gerk 5. Geoff Smart

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Top 25 (17): 68%

Overall 46 (28): 61%

1999

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Reggie Laplante 1. Justin Morneau

2. Justin Morneau 2. Shawn Hill

3. Brad Rogers 3. Phil Devey

4. Jason Bay 4. Reggie Laplante

5. Alex Groleau 5. Todd Shiyuk

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 80%

Top 25 (16): 64%

Overall 46 (26): 57%

1998

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Ryan Grantham 1. Lee Delfino

2. Lee Delfino 2. Tim Nelson

3. Kareem Johnson 3. Steve Murray

4. Dustin Emberley 4. Ryan Grantham

5. Steve Murray 5. Dustin Emberley

Percentage of players drafted in any order:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Top 20 (16): 80%

Overall 31 (20): 65%

1997

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Kevin Nicholson 1. Kevin Nicholson

2. Aaron Myette 2. Ntema Ndungidi

3. Ntema Ndungidi 3. Aaron Myette

4. Brad Drew 4. Robbie Vael

5. Jason Gooding 5. Jason Gooding

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 100%

Top 20 (14): 70%

Overall 41 (19): 46%

1996

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Chris Reitsma 1. Chris Reitsma

2. Yan Lachapelle 2. Yan Lachapelle

3. Cody McKay 3. Chris Mears

4. Chris Mears 4. Cody McKay

5. Jeff Guiel 5. Greg Heffernan

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 80%

Top 20 (13): 65%

Overall 40 (19): 48%

1995

Final projected list Top Canucks drafted

1. Ryan Dempster 1. Ryan Dempster

2. Aaron Myette 2. Cody McKay

3. Yan LaGrandeur 3. Blaine Forton

4. Trevor Bishop 4. Chad Ricketts

5. Sean Riley 5. Pierre-Luc LaForest

Percentage of players drafted:

Ranked in the top 5: 80%

Top 20 (13): 65%

Overall 31 (21): 68%

August 7, 2026

Official Ottawa Titans News Release

Ottawa, Ont. - The Ottawa Titans continued to roll, picking up a 10-2 win over the Trois-Rivières Aigles on Friday night, powered by stellar pitching and offence.

Evan Grills (Whitby, Ont.) got the start for the Titans, picking up his fourth quality start in a row. He allowed one run in each of the first and second innings, then settled in for five scoreless innings, going seven total and striking out a season-high 10 batters.

The offence came up big too. Down 1-0 in the bottom of the first with runners on second and third, Taylor Wright (North Vancouver, B.C.) put one in play to tie things up with a ground out. Myles Smith doubled for the 15th time this season to bring home another, putting the Titans ahead 2-1.

The Titans then put up one run in each of the next four innings. Austin Gurney (Campbell River, B.C.) picked up an RBI single with runners on the corners to take back the lead at 3-2 in the second. Smith singled and scored on a two-base wild pitch and E2 in the third, Taylor Wright added an RBI single in the fourth, and Thomas Ferroggiaro knocked in one with a double in the fifth to extend the lead to 6-2.

The Titans weren't done yet, putting up four more runs in the eighth, powered by a three-run bomb off the bat of Smith. The former Reds farmhand has now driven in 10 runs over his last five games.

Alongside stellar pitching from Grills, Liu Fuenmayor and Heitor Tokar each threw scoreless innings out of the pen.

Charles Lefebvre took the loss, going four innings and allowing five runs (three earned) on two walks and nine hits.

The bats shined yet again for the Titans in their seventh win in the last eight games. Gurney reached base five times, going 2-for-2 with three walks and an RBI. Jackie Urbaez went 2-for-4 with a walk, and Hunter Stokely picked up a pair of singles. Leading the charge was Myles Smith, going 3-for-5 with a double and a home run, driving in four.

The Titans continue a short homestand with the second of a three-game series against the Aigles on Saturday night at 6 p.m. at Ottawa Stadium. Next week, the Titans are on the road for a six-game Midwest Conference road trip with stops in Windy City and Gateway

August 7, 2026

By Abby Fralic

Okotoks Dawgs

Okotoks, Alta. – The Okotoks Dawgs began their 2026 playoff run with a dominant 24-7 win over the Energy City Cactus Rats in front of 4,307 fans at Seaman Stadium on Friday night.

The Dawgs’ offence exploded for 25 hits. Cal Gates led the way with a 5-for-5 performance that included two doubles, six runs and two stolen bases.

Nash Crowell (Yarmouth, N.S.) added to the attack, going 3-for-4 with a home run, a triple, three RBIs and a walk, while Jordan Kievman belted two home runs.

Third baseman Eric Machej (Edmonton, Alta.) also contributed three doubles and five RBIs for the Dawgs.

On the mound, Brody Forno (Okotoks, Alta.) started and struck out five batters in four innings.

The Dawgs then received strong relief performances from Will Labonte (Montreal, Que.), Wyatt Sadleir (Calgary, Alta.), Matthew Tran (Regina, Sask.) and Brody Burnette who combined for five strikeouts and limited the Cactus Rats to two runs in five innings.

The Dawgs will look to keep their momentum going when they host the Cactus Rats again in Game 2 at Seaman Stadium on Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

August 7, 2026

By Ted Hotzak

Former BC Premier League President

An update on Clyde Inouye’s health.

I visited him last week and would like all of you to know that he is on a slow road to recovery. His son and daughter have been spending a lot of time with him in Parksville helping with his recovery. Clyde recently turned 80.

He has some weakness of his left side but is definitely improving on a daily basis. He goes for physical therapy several times a week working on getting his strength and mobility back. Physically and mentally, he looks a lot better than six weeks ago.

He is still limiting visitors as he does get tired after his therapy and enjoys his afternoon snoozes.

In April, Inouye was diagnosed with some artery issues during a routine annual physical and is now recovering from a five-hour bypass surgery in Victoria in March.

Your thoughts should be with Clyde Inouye, BC Premier League’s founder

The BCPBL, the most productive and most successful best-against-best league in Canada, was founded by Walt Burrows, Lowell Hodges and the late Dave Wallace, as well as Inouye, who ran the Parksville Royals.

*This article was originally published on Saskatchewan Dugout Stories on August 5. You can read it here.

August 7, 2026

By Joe McFarland

Saskatchewan Dugout Stories

You can add another bronze medal to the mantle for Team Saskatchewan at the Baseball Canada 19U Women’s National Championship.

Although, the latest was most definitely a little sweeter as it was captured on home turf.

Hosting the tournament in Saskatoon, the team came out blazing with big wins in the round-robin and, despite a heartbreaking setback in the semis, they came back stronger on their way to a decisive 15-5 win over Alberta in the bronze-medal matchup.

While it fell short of their ultimate goal, they were all smiles as their rewards were placed around their necks.

They knew it wasn’t just a win for them, but for an entire province and the next generation looking to proudly wear the green, gold and white of Saskatchewan.

“Winning a medal at nationals is a huge accomplishment, but to be able to do it at our home field in front of our family and friends was even more special,” Makenna Dobrowolsky told Saskatchewan Dugout Stories.

“It was also amazing to have younger girls come support us and watch what Team Sask can do.”

The medal also serves as inspiration for the 16U team who will be heading to nationals in Moncton later this month.

SETTING A TONE

After claiming bronze at the 2025 championships in Calgary, expectations were high heading into this summer.

The players and coaches wanted to set a tone early, especially at home.

“Going into the tournament, our message to our players was to have confidence in their skills, believe in themselves, and to have fun,” said head coach Tony Black.

Led by veteran Braidy Birdsall, who went 4-for-4 with four runs batted in, Saskatchewan hit the ground running with an 11-1 victory over Manitoba to open up the tournament. Dobrowolsky and Bailey Lacelle combined on a one-hit gem, allowing just two walks while striking out six over five innings.

Birdsall did it again the next day, picking up three hits and three RBIs during a thrilling 19-13 extra innings triumph over Alberta.

They finished the round-robin portion of the tournament with 12-2 romp over Newfoundland and Labrador, with Birdsall nabbing another two hits and three RBIs while Camden Suchan and Paetyn Lenius were solid on the hill.

FIGHTING THROUGH ADVERSITY

Facing Ontario in the semi-final with a spot in the gold medal game on the line, Team Sask went to work hoping to improve on their 2025 finish.

The offence picked up right where it left off in the round-robin, with Bailey Lacelle nabbing three hits while four others had two-hit days, but it wasn’t enough in an 11-7 loss.

Instead of being disappointed, they leaned on their experience from a season ago to make sure they were in the right mindset going into the bronze medal game just a couple of hours later.

“We all have a drive to keep going and to never give up, even through failure and frustrating moments,” said utility player Taylor Schueller. “We pick ourselves up and continue pushing ourselves to find success.”

Going up against Alberta again, things didn’t start well for Saskatchewan as they gave up a pair of runs in the first inning.

However, their bats caught fire in the second inning when they put up seven runs, highlighted by two-run doubles from Victoria Bateman and Dobrowolsky.

“They are a very determined group of young women who never gave up and believed in themselves,” said Black. “That semi-final loss was tough for us, but our girls reset between games and came to play in the bronze medal game.”

They scored another seven in the bottom of the fourth, and ended the game ended on a mercy with Saskatchewan up 15-5.

A SPECIAL TEAM

After Quebec clinched the gold medal with a 10-0 win over Ontario, it was time for the awards to be handed out.

To the surprise of no one, Birdsall was named the tournament’s top offensive player while Quebec’s Elly Lasorsa-Godmer picked up the top pitcher accolades.

The 20-year-old finished the tournament going 20-for-23 with 17 RBIs, putting an exclamation point on her time with the 19U team.

“My whole family is pretty much here,” the Saskatoon native told 650 CKOM. “Just looking out there and seeing their smiling faces just makes it all worth it. I can leave the diamond knowing that I put everything out there and had a great time.”

While Birdsall turned a lot of heads, Black says it was a complete team effort from everyone as they played their hearts out and were resilient throughout the tournament.

It’s a sentiment echoed by his players, who say they supported each other and had confidence that they could pull through.

“The energy and positivity that Team Sask has definitely helped us succeed because we’re always having fun while playing the sport we have a lot of passion for,” Dobrowolsky said.

It all boiled down to team culture, continued Schueller.

“Team Sask is truly a special team when it comes to the bond we share,” she said. “We are always picking each other up, cheering each other on and just having fun.”

The tournament created many memories for the players, coaches and fans – home sweet home indeed.

August 6, 2026

By Ian Wilson

Western Canadian Baseball League

Buckle up, the postseason has arrived.

The Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) regular season is complete and the field of 12 teams has been reduced to eight championship contenders.

The Okotoks Dawgs took first place in the league and the West Division, while the Moose Jaw Miller Express claimed the East Division crown.

Also along for the postseason ride are the Sylvan Lake Gulls, Saskatoon Berries, Lethbridge Bulls, Regina Red Sox, Energy City Cactus Rats and the Medicine Hat Mavericks.

Here's a closer look at the opening round matchups, which are set to get underway on Friday, Aug. 7th across Alberta and Saskatchewan.

WEST DIVISION

1. OKOTOKS DAWGS (42-14) vs. 4. ENERGY CITY CACTUS RATS (21-33)

The top-seeded Dawgs play host to the Cactus Rats in the first round, as Okotoks looks to return to the championship form that earned them a three-peat of titles from 2022 through 2024.

The Dawgs had the best run differential in the WCBL this season (plus 229), thanks to the most potent offence in the league, which scored 537 runs. They finished the campaign with an 8-2 record and a four-game winning streak that included a pair of victories over the Cactus Rats.

The top veteran bats in the Okotoks lineup include Nash Crowell (9 HR, 44 RBI, .347 batting average); Connor Crowson (.400 batting average, .539 on-base percentage, 51 runs); Ricardo Sanchez (55 runs, .404 on-base percentage), Jacob Wrubleski (8 HR, .314 batting average ); Landon Kauffman (.376 batting average, 38 RBI, 16 SB); and Eric Machej (.310 batting average), all of whom have collected championship rings with the Dawgs.

Production this year was also bolstered by hard-hitting Jordan Kievman (9 HR, 46 RBI, .394 batting average), speedy outfielder Cal Gates (.407 batting average, 46 runs, 33 SB), catcher Jayden Lusk (.306 batting average, 28 runs, 26 RBI); and the steady play of Ayden Crouse (.324 batting average, 39 runs, 38 RBI, 25 SB). Turner Zdunich, who suited up with the Saskatoon Berries in 2025, could also provide clutch at bats in the postseason.

On the bump, longtime starting pitcher Brody Forno went a perfect 6-0 during the regular season for the Dawgs while recording a 2.62 ERA and 53 strikeouts in 44-plus innings. Fellow righty Evan Lehnert also went undefeated with a 4-0 record, 4.28 ERA and 26 Ks in 27.1 innings. Logan Rumberg, who pitched for the Dawgs in 2022 and 2023, joined the pitching staff in July and could prove useful on the mound as the importance of each game cranks up during August. Brody Burnette led the club with three saves this season. Expect Burnette and Calgarian Wyatt Sadlier (3.91 ERA and 30 Ks in 25.1 innings) to be key bullpen performers for the Dawgs.

Looking to silence the Seaman Stadium crowd will be the Energy City Cactus Rats, the only West Division postseason squad that had a negative run differential (minus 84) in the regular season. The Cactus Rats went 4-6 in their final 10 games of the regular season.

The Cactus Rats were boosted offensively by David Simmons, who led the team in runs (39), hits (56) and doubles (11). Simmons also won the WCBL Home Run Derby during All-Star Weekend in Saskatoon. Steven Fermin was tops in Energy City in RBI (38) and homers (8). Dan Kawanashi (.407 on-base percentage, 31 runs, 15 SB); Hikaru Ikeda (30 runs, 14 SB); and Luke Wilson (.333 batting average, .422 on-base percentage) also provided quality at bats to the Cactus Rats during the regular season.

Hill toppers looking to make a difference for the Cactus Rats include Kingston Besuijen, who went 4-0 with a 3.41 ERA and 23 Ks in 34-plus innings, and lefty Saul Mata, who went 3-5 with 49 strikeouts over 46.1 frames. Four different relievers - Justin Puello, Hudson Kozicki, Brayan Leyva and Aviv Bobrov - picked up saves for the club.

All three games in the best-of-three series will take place at Seaman Stadium in Okotoks, with the first game going at 7:05 pm on Friday, Aug. 7th and the second matchup happening at 7:05 pm on Saturday, Aug. 8th. If necessary, a third and deciding game will start at 7:05 pm on Sunday, Aug. 9th.

2. SYLVAN LAKE GULLS (38-18) vs. 3. LETHBRIDGE BULLS (33-23)

It's a postseason rematch for these two Alberta teams, who battled in 2023 and 2025, with Sylvan Lake sweeping both series.

The Gulls produced the second best run differential in the WCBL (plus 191) with the strength of a pitching staff and defence that allowed the fewest runs against (245) during the regular season. Sylvan Lake also finished strong down the stretch, going 8-2 over their last 10 contests.

Bringing a well-balanced roster to the postseason, the Lake Boys will look for offensive contributions from Johnboy Rittenhouse (.328 batting average, 54 RBI, 44 runs, 10 HR); Coleman Parry (.304 batting average, 35 runs, 31 RBI); Charlie Collins (.372 batting average, .450 on-base percentage, 40 runs, 20 SB); Maddox Shaver (.336 batting average, .464 on-base percentage, 47 runs, 10 HR, 16 SB); and catcher Rece Schuerman (.327 batting average, .405 on-base percentage).

Several veteran sluggers with the Gulls will also be counted on in the clutch, including Elijha Hammill (.349 batting average, 11 HR, 33 RBI, 33 runs); Jaden Flores (.319 batting average, .479 on-base percentage); Cleary Simpson (.316 batting average, .413 on-base percentage); and Michael Quick (.402 on-base percentage, 31 runs, 10 SB).

The Gulls have made a habit of sending a squadron of reliable pitchers to the mound each season. They had 10 pitchers with two or more wins this year and four relievers with at least one save.

George Hobbins went 5-1 with 52 strikeouts and a 3.16 ERA over 37 innings, while Seth Mahler was 5-1 with two saves, 30 Ks and a 2.38 ERA in his 41-plus innings. Other impactful arms this season included Reece Hemmerling (45.1 innings, 4-3 record, 35 Ks, 4.17 ERA); Mason Little (4-2, one save, 31.2 innings, 36 Ks, 3.98 ERA); Noah Bourgeois (29 innings, 3-1, 35 strikeouts, 3.41 ERA); Bryson Leach (48 innings, 3-2, 40 Ks, 4.50 ERA); Kai Rempel (26 innings, 3-2, 25 Ks, 1.73 ERA); and Matthew Mackenzie (33.2 innings, 2-1, 33 strikeouts, 4.54 ERA).

While Mahler and Little showed an ability to close out games, Brayden Stewart was the bullpen ace, picking up five saves and a 1-2 record in his 31 frames on the bump. Stewart racked up 55 strikeouts and posted a 2.32 ERA during the regular season. Braxton Bussing, a southpaw who starred for Gulls Prep at the U19 Road to Okotoks championship tournament, made a pair of one-inning appearances in late July and on the final day of the season. The lefty could see time during the postseason if the Gulls go on a deep run.

The Lethbridge Bulls had a .500 record down the stretch, but will look to get hot quickly during the postseason.

The loss of Carter Claerhout to professional baseball left a big hole in the batting lineup, but others have stepped up in his absence, most notably local product Kalem Haney, who plays all over the field and batted .335 with a .474 on-base percentage, 51 runs, 41 RBI, 45 walks and 20 stolen bases. Supporting Haney this year were Joshua Milton (.325 batting average, 32 RBI); catcher Cardel Dick (.426 on-base percentage, 21 RBI); Jack Wheatley (.400 on-base percentage, 31 runs, 8 SB); and Luke Wheatley (36 runs, 31 hits, 4 HR, 4 SB).

Easton Kitura, a standout for Vauxhall Academy at the Road to Okotoks, was effective in 17 games with the Bulls, registering a .440 on-base percentage, 16 runs, 12 RBI and four stolen bases. Late-season addition Willis Takahashi (.500 batting average in 16 at bats), could also give the offence a jolt in the postseason.

After coming over from the Weyburn Beavers, Ethan Webster has logged big innings as a starting pitcher. In 44-plus frames, Webster went 4-4 with 32 strikeouts. Fellow right-handed starter Adryen Tietz went 1-5 but turned in 41.1 innings and struck out 49 opponents. Shaye McTavish was another innings eater with the Bulls. He went 3-0 with 43 Ks in 40.1 innings pitched. Other notable rotation pieces were Caeden Willaert (39.2 innings, 3-2 record, 39 Ks, 4.99 ERA) and lefty Brett Getz (29.2 innings, 2-2, 24 strikeouts, 5.46 ERA).

Lucas Huynh was brilliant out of the bullpen for Lethbridge, going 2-0 with five saves in 10.1 innings this year, but he won't pitch for the Bulls in the postseason. Instead, watch for southpaw Sheamus Ryan to close things out after notching three saves in three appearances late in the season. The veteran member of the pitching staff has struck out four batters while allowing just two hits, no walks and no runs in three innings. Swingman Graham Thiessen (3-1 record, 27 innings, 38 Ks, 4.67 ERA) is the only other pitcher who registered a save for the Bulls this summer.

This best-of-three series gets going on Friday, Aug. 7th with a 7:05 pm start at Gulls Field in Sylvan Lake. The second game shifts to Spitz Stadium in Lethbridge at 7:05 pm on Saturday, Aug. 8th. If necessary, a third game is set for 7:05 pm on Sunday, Aug. 9th in Sylvan Lake.

EAST DIVISION

1. MOOSE JAW MILLER EXPRESS (41-15) vs. 4. MEDICINE HAT MAVERICKS (22-34)

The Miller Express were a runaway freight train this year, establishing a new franchise record for regular season wins and putting together a 14-game winning streak along the way.

Moose Jaw finished the campaign strong, going 8-2 in their last 10 matchups while a number of their players set individual single-season records in the WCBL.

The batting lineup will give opposing pitchers fits right from the opening pitch. Leadoff hitter and shortstop Thomas Soto set new highs for stolen bases (49) and runs (75) this year, while batting .359 with 47 RBI. From there, Chris Franks (.368 batting average, .471 on-base percentage, 51 runs, 60 RBI, 19 SB); Eduardo Saenz (.361 batting average, .470 on-base percentage, 44 runs, 42 RBI); William Edwards (55 runs, 69 hits, 54 RBI); Ben Waliczek (.474 on-base percentage, 61 runs, 34 SB); Michael Rago (.306 batting average, 39 runs, 22 SB); and Garryn Plummer (.354 batting average, 47 RBI) only offer more headaches.

The rotation of the Miller Express also includes some workhorse pitchers. Ace Westin Walls set a new WCBL single-season record for strikeouts, with 92 Ks in his 82.1 innings of work. The 6-foot-5 Texan went 6-1 with a 4.04 ERA. Behind Walls is southpaw Jacob Glazener, who assembled an 8-2 record while registering 72 strikeouts in 60 frames, and Sean Bavis, who went 5-1 with 45 Ks and a 5.16 ERA in 52-plus innings. Aidan Johnson also went 4-1 with 22 strikeouts in his 29 innings during the regular season.

Moose Jaw's bullpen was also formidable this year. Closer Nathan Pisio went 3-0 with seven saves and 19 strikeouts while putting together a 2.08 ERA. Fellow righty reliever Jacob Quiles went 6-0 with one save, a 3.99 ERA and 40 Ks in 38-plus innings. The Millers also got a save from southpaw R.J. Patrick, who was 2-0 with 10 strikeouts in 12 innings.

The Medicine Hat Mavericks, who backed into the postseason by losing their final three games of the regular season, will have their hands full.

The Mavs - who scored 417 times while allowing 454 runs - will need everything they can get out of 2026 WCBL All-Star Game MVP Carter Roth, who set a new league record for doubles this year with 24. The Ontario product was fantastic for Medicine Hat, picking up 88 hits, 49 runs, 46 RBI, seven home runs and five stolen bases. Johnny Vulcano - the franchise leader in games played (188) and doubles (47) - will also be leaned on after batting .317 with 39 runs. Heavy hitter Frankie Giacalone put up excellent power numbers, jacking 14 homers while batting .313 with 41 runs and 44 RBI. Other key bats in the lineup include local product Evan Morrison (60 hits, 48 runs, 43 RBI, 42 walks, 9 HR) and Blake Dale (52 hits, 46 runs, 41 RBI, 8 SB).

The most dependable starting pitcher for Medicine Hat this year has been Derek Archer, who led the club in innings (63.2) while going 3-4 with 66 strikeouts and a 5.37 ERA. Other members of the rotation that have been called on for mound motivation include Diego Centella (44.2 innings, 2-3 record, 44 Ks, 5.84 ERA); lefthander Cody Myers (2-3, 35 Ks, 38 innings); Julian Pokorny (29 strikeouts, 3-2 record, 37 innings); and Jackson Miles (31.1 innings, 2-2, 20 strikeouts, 3.73 ERA).

Three pitchers nabbed saves during the regular season, led by Tanner Hail, who closed out three games and went 2-1 with a 4.64 ERA and 20 strikeouts in 21-plus innings. Levi Tibbetts (2-0 record, 26 Ks, 18.1 innings) and Jackson Miller (15.2 innings, seven strikeouts) also registered one save each.

The series opener in this best-of-three matchup takes place at 7:05 pm at Ross Wells Park in Moose Jaw on Friday, Aug. 7th, followed by the rematch at Athletic Park in Medicine Hat at 6:45 pm on Saturday, Aug. 8th. If necessary, a third and deciding game is set for 7:05 pm on Sunday, Aug. 9th in Moose Jaw.

2. SASKATOON BERRIES (38-18) vs. 3. REGINA RED SOX (26-30)

After setting a single-season record for wins in a season in 2025, only to lose out in the postseason to the Regina Red Sox in the East Division Final, the Saskatoon Berries will be looking to inflict a little bit of payback on their Saskatchewan neighbours in the south.

While the Berries weren't as dominant in the regular season this year, they did produce the best run differential (plus 187) in the East Division. Their balanced roster gives Saskatoon a high-powered offence and a run-suppressing defence and pitching staff.

Despite the mismatch on paper, both teams turned in a .500 record in their last 10 games of the season and will be looking to crank things up for the postseason.

The Berries will seek scoring chances from a baseball-bashing bunch that includes WCBL batting champ Gael Salinas (.419 batting average, 1.123 OPS, 69 runs, 60 RBI, 6 HR, 6 SB); Swift Current slugger Ethan Murdoch (.358 batting average, .453 on-base percentage, 68 runs, 62 RBI, 14 HR); Brock Laird (.444 on-base percentage, 66 runs, 42 RBI); Josh Henson (11 HR, 64 RBI, 48 runs); catcher Gavin Panks (.367 batting average, .495 on-base percentage, 48 runs, 41 RBI); Nash Nichols (9 HR, 16 SB, 32 RBI); and infielder Nathan Houston (.341 batting average, .420 on-base percentage, 41 runs, 39 RBI, 15 SB).

Standout starting pitcher Michael Sall (5-0 record, 2.45 ERA) left the club in July, but the rotation at NexGen Patch at Cairns Field remains in good hands. Owen Stempel went 4-0 with 47 strikeouts in 44.2 innings, with a 4.03 ERA, while Adam Korte finished with a 4-1 record, 25 Ks and a 4.58 ERA in his 37-plus regular season frames. Meanwhile, Merek Yeager was 3-1 with a 3.68 ERA and 26 strikeouts in 22 innings. Diego Quinonez finished the season as the workhorse of the pitching staff after logging 50.1 innings and going 4-3 with 44 strikeouts.

The bullpen of the Berries also took a hit with the departure of Tanner Hosick (5-2 record, two saves, 1.10 ERA, 27 Ks in 16.1 innings), but eight different pitchers picked up saves over the course of the summer. Southpaw Brooks Jones went 2-1 with a pair of saves, a 1.75 ERA and 33 Ks in 25-plus innings and fellow lefty Brody Wrench had one save and 26 strikeouts in his 17.1 innings. Other relievers called on to close out games included Colin Plain (2-1, two saves, 3.68 ERA, 21 Ks, 22 innings); Muenster product Dallen Rude (two saves, 4.33 ERA, 25 Ks, 27 innings); Tyler Bailey (2-0, one save, 23 strikeouts, 16.1 innings); Reid Beck (one save, 16 Ks, 19 innings); and Aden Quintela (one save, four strikeouts, 5.2 innings).

Standing in the way of the Berries are the Regina Red Sox, the defending WCBL champions.

The Red Sox came out of nowhere to upset their way to a title win over the Sylvan Lake Gulls last year, but it's difficult to catch lightning in a bottle two postseasons in a row. Regina finished the season with a pair of wins and will look to build on that success. They also have a new skipper at the helm after Brayden Cobb replaced field manager Rye Pothakos right before WCBL All-Star Weekend in Saskatoon.

Back to lead the charge at the plate is third baseman Brady Bye, who took home WCBL Postseason MVP honours in 2025. Bye set franchise records in home runs (13) and RBI (67) while scoring 43 runs, stealing 12 bases and producing a .344 batting average. The lefty slugger will have some batters around him who helped deliver the Harry Hallis Memorial Trophy last August. Infielder Jalen Meyers (.364 batting average, .484 on-base percentage, 41 runs); outfielder Ian Montz (.327 batting average, .421 on-base percentage, 6 HR); and catcher Daniel Castellanos (.296 batting average, 25 RBI) all helped secure rings for the Red Sox. Lance Anderson, the team's stolen base leader with 21 swiped bags, will also look to make an impact. Anderson batted .304 with 26 runs in 37 WCBL games.

On the mound, ace Kaegan Baker will look to improve on his 6-2 showing from the regular season. The Oklahoma native led the Red Sox in Ks with 62 strikeouts over his 53.2 innings. Daniel Crabtree, who has played for Regina since 2023, led the club in innings pitched (55.1) and went 2-4 with 34 strikeouts and a 6.34 ERA. Lefty Samuel Jackson went 4-1 with 54 strikeouts in 44.2 innings.

When it's time to hand the ball over in the late innings, look for David Gordon to take over. He was the club's go to closer, picking up four saves, three wins and 39 strikeouts in 37-plus innings. Vittorio Iacobucci, a key reliever for the Red Sox since 2024, collected two saves while going 1-1 with 13 Ks and a 4.82 ERA in 18.2 innings this year. Kris Hahn (3-1 record, 33 Ks, 4.08 ERA, 39.2 innings) and Garrett Mullins (1-2 record, 10 Ks, 17.2 innings) also both recorded one save each this summer.

The first game of the best-of-three series starts at 7 pm at NexGen Patch at Cairns Field in Saskatoon on Friday, Aug. 7th. The second installment begins at Regina's Currie Field at 6 pm on Saturday, Aug. 8th. If those two games don't decide a winner, the third game is set for 7 pm in Saskatoon on Sunday, Aug. 9th.

PLAYOFF FORMAT

Postseason play gets underway on Friday, Aug. 7th. All playoff series are best-of-three affairs.

The opening round – which is scheduled for Aug. 7-9 – sees divisional clashes between the No. 1 seed and the No. 4 seed, along with matchups between the second-place team and the third-place squad. The tops seeds have home-field advantage and will host games one and three (if necessary).

The teams that advance then fight it out for top spot in the East Division and the best in the West Division. That second round is set for Aug. 11-13.

The WCBL’s final series pits the elite team in the East Division versus the finest club in the West Division in a showdown for the Harry Hallis Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to the league’s championship winner. That series is set to take place from Aug. 15-17.

During the trophy presentation, a postseason Most Valuable Player (MVP) award is also given out to the best performer.

August 6, 2026

By Jason Young

Winnipeg Goldeyes

WINNIPEG, MAN. – The Winnipeg Goldeyes made history Thursday, rallying to defeat the Chicago Dogs 7-5 at Blue Cross Park for a franchise-record 12th straight victory.

Winnipeg jumped out to an early lead, scoring three times in the bottom of the first inning. Shortstop Ray-Patrick Didder opened the frame with a double to left field before third baseman Ramón Bramasco brought him home with a single up the middle. Later in the inning, left fielder Keshawn Lynch singled to right, scoring Bramasco and second baseman Adam Hall (London, Ont.) to give the Goldeyes a 3-0 advantage.

Chicago steadily worked its way back into the game. Shortstop Ethan Wilder drove in second baseman Nick Roselli with a third-inning single to right, and centre fielder Giovanni DiGiacomo brought home right fielder Nick Stokes an inning later to pull the Dogs within a run.

The visitors completed the comeback in the fifth. First baseman Chance Sisco scored on a wild pitch to tie the game 3-3 before catcher Jaxx Groshans launched a two-out solo home run to left field, giving Chicago its first lead of the night.

Winnipeg’s response came in the seventh.

Right fielder Max Murphy scored on Didder’s sacrifice fly to right to even the score before Bramasco delivered the decisive blow. With two outs, he drove a two-run home run down the right-field line, putting the Goldeyes back in front 6-4.

The Dogs continued to threaten in the eighth, trimming the deficit to one when Roselli’s infield single scored third baseman Derek Maiben. Chicago eventually put the potential tying and go-ahead runs aboard, but Winnipeg escaped the inning with its 6-5 lead intact.

The Goldeyes added a valuable insurance run in the bottom half when designated hitter Jiandido Tromp lifted a sacrifice fly to centre, bringing home centre fielder Noah Marcelo and restoring Winnipeg’s two-run cushion at 7-5.

Arij Fransen earned the victory in relief of starter Ryo Kohigashi, allowing just one hit over two scoreless innings beginning in the sixth. Eli Saul (Vancouver, B.C.) also worked out of the Winnipeg bullpen before Derrick Cherry closed the door in the ninth. Cherry issued a leadoff walk, then retired the next three batters to secure the victory.

Regi Grace Jr. took the loss for Chicago after replacing Connor Lockwood in the seventh. Grace surrendered three runs on two hits, including Bramasco’s go-ahead home run.

The Goldeyes will now travel to Lincoln, Neb., where they will open a three-game weekend series against the Saltdogs Friday at Haymarket Park. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Right-hander Aidan Newton will take the mound for Winnipeg, while Lincoln will counter with fellow right-hander Cael Chatham.

August 5, 2026

Official Toronto Blue Jays News Release

The Toronto Blue Jays have claimed right-hander Matt Waldron off waivers from the San Diego Padres.

Waldron, 29, has gone 1-2 with a 7.16 ERA over 10 games (three starts) for the Padres this season, while posting a 1.33 ERA and a 1.00 WHIP over eight starts with San Diego’s triple-A squad in El Paso.

The Omaha, Neb., native was selected by Cleveland in the 18th round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft, eventually making his MLB debut for the Padres in 2023.

Across four seasons in San Diego, the 6-foot-2, 185-pound knuckleballer has suited up for 46 big league contests (36 starts), pitching to a 5.19 ERA and a 4.69 FIP with a 20.1% strikeout rate and a 6.8% walk rate.

Additionally, LHP Patrick Corbin has been transferred to the 60-day injured list.

August 6, 2026

By Tyson Shushkewich

Canadian Baseball Network

Welcome to the Eric Hartman show.

Selected by the Atlanta Braves in the 20th round of the 2024 MLB draft, the St. Albert, Alta., product is taking the Braves’ minor league system by storm.

Since making his professional debut in 2025, Hartman has found success at every level of the minors, and the Braves felt confident enough to promote the 20-year-old outfielder to double-A Columbus earlier this week.

Hartman joins an exclusive group of players aged 20 or younger in double-A, including top prospects Jesus Made, Franklin Arias, and Leo De Vries. The Canuck is no slouch himself, ranking No. 77 on MLB Pipeline's Top 100 Prospects list and No. 2 in the Braves organization. Among Canadians on the list, he is the second-highest-ranked Canadian-born player (behind fellow Alberta product Nathan Flewelling at No. 70) and the third-highest-ranked Canadian-affiliated player, behind Flewelling and Tyler Bremner of the Los Angeles Angels.

This season, Hartman has found a consistent stroke at the plate while displaying some serious power. The left-handed-hitting outfielder posted a .273/.364/.525 slash line for the High-A Rome Emperors in the South Atlantic League while contributing 18 doubles, 24 home runs, and 64 RBIs. His home run and run totals (76) lead all Braves minor leaguers, and he ranks among the organization's top five in numerous other categories, including hits (101), doubles, RBIs, hit by pitches (8), slugging percentage, isolated power (.248), and weighted runs created (77).

In High-A, Hartman posted an 11.0% walk rate and a .305 BABIP, both of which were among the highest marks on the team. He also recorded an .889 OPS and chipped in with 38 stolen bases, the fifth-most in the Braves’ farm system. Before the promotion, Hartman had generated a 131 wRC+ and a .388 wOBA, showcasing his ability to get on base at a high clip while also hitting for plenty of power. A centre fielder by trade, Hartman also recorded two outfield assists before being promoted to the Clingstones.

Through two games in double-A, Hartman has collected two hits in eight at-bats while drawing two walks. He's also stolen three bases.

The former Okotoks Dawgs standout was set to attend Washington State before hearing his name called in the MLB draft, but it seems both he and the Braves are thrilled he chose the professional route as an over-slot signing out of the 20th round.

The Canadian Baseball Network doesn't hand out awards at the halfway point of the season, but you would be hard-pressed to find a Canadian minor leaguer playing at a higher level than Hartman this year. While there is a good chance that Hartman finishes the year in Columbus, a strong finish to the year could see him hanging with the big boys for spring training in 2027, and a shot at the major leagues by the end of next season.

August 6, 2026

By Ian Wilson

Western Canadian Baseball League

It was a smashing success.

No records were safe in the Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) this summer.

Indeed, more records were blown up in the WCBL in 2026 than at Disco Demolition Night at Comiskey Park in Chicago in 1979.

Well, maybe not THAT many records, but there were several significant milestones achieved in a number of statistical categories this year.

New single-season benchmarks were established for individual home runs, runs batted in (RBIs), stolen bases, runs, doubles and strikeouts.

Here's a closer look at the record-smashing performances and the statistical leaders from around the league during the regular season.

HOMER HIRO

Third baseman Jake Hiromoto put his power on full display for the Swift Current 57's. The hammerin' Hawaiian's 22 long balls made him the league's new home run king, with his tater total eclipsing that of Riley MacDonald, who knocked out 20 round trippers with the Brooks Bombers in 2018.

Hiromoto finished well ahead of the pack when it came to the long ball. Frankie Giacolone of the Medicine Hat Mavericks launched 14 bombs, while Ethan Murdoch (Saskatoon Berries) and Erick Ballenilla (Brooks Bombers) also had 14 homers to finish in a three-way tie for second place in that category.

Hiromoto was about way more than the home runs though. The University of San Francisco sophomore established a new high in RBIs in the WCBL by driving in 77 runs over 56 games played. That RBI production blew past the previous record of 66, set by Kaleb Warden of the Lethbridge Bulls in 2019 and later tied by William Edwards of the Moose Jaw Miller Express in 2025. Brady Bye, third baseman with the Regina Red Sox, was the RBI runner up this season, with 67 runs produced.

Hiromoto also fell one hit shy of the single-season high by getting 89 knocks. Tristan Peters of the Okotoks Dawgs set the record of 90 hits in 2019 and Dawson Tweet - aided by a 36-game hitting streak with the Miller Express - equaled that number in 2023.

The Mitchell Field masher inserted his name all over the offensive leaderboards of the WCBL. Hiromoto's on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) was tops on the circuit at 1.227, and he was among the best hitters for batting average (.394), runs (65), and doubles (17). In addition, Hiromoto registered a .457 on-base percentage, 20 walks and 11 stolen bases in 226 at bats for Swift Current.

SWIPING SOTO

Thomas Soto also etched his name in the record books in a couple of different places.

The veteran shortstop and leadoff hitter with the Moose Jaw Miller Express has been a bag-swiping bandit and a run-scoring rascal.

Soto easily raced past the stolen base record of 42, which was set by Braden DeSonia of the Medicine Hat Mavericks in 2022. The switch hitter from Round Rock, Texas pushed that mark to 49 steals in his 56 games atop the Moose Jaw lineup. Soto and his teammate, Ben Waliczek, formed a one-two punch on the base paths for the Miller Express, with Waliczek finishing in second spot in stolen bases with 34.

The middle infielder also added to his WCBL legend status by besting his own record for runs scored. Soto registered 70 runs last year and he touched home plate another 75 times in 2026.

It was all part of a highly productive campaign for Soto, who led the league in plate appearances (278) while drawing 41 walks, manufacturing 47 RBIs, smacking 17 doubles, recording 80 hits and getting on base at a .469 clip.

DOUBLE TROUBLE

He's been pacing the offence in Medicine Hat all year, and now Carter Roth has a record to prove it.

The 2026 WCBL All-Star Game MVP smacked 24 doubles this season to overtake Aidan Stinnett and his 23 doubles with the Miller Express from 2014.

Roth (Stratford, Ont.) has been magnificent with the Mavs through his two seasons with the club. In 56 games this summer, the infielder turned in a .359 batting average, .402 on-base percentage, 49 runs, 46 RBIs, seven home runs and five stolen bases over his 245 at bats. The Ontario native also finished with 88 hits, one less than Hiromoto.

Roth's teammate, Johnny Vulcano, set a couple of career franchise records for the Mavericks this year, including games played (188) and doubles (47). Vulcano sits second all-time in team hits (197) and runs (130).

BERRIES BATTING CHAMP

Gael Salinas had to fend off a pair of Okotoks Dawgs for the title of 2026 WCBL batting champion, but the infielder from Mexico came through with an unbeatable .419 batting average.

In his 54 games with the Saskatoon Berries, Salinas had a .523 on-base percentage, 69 runs, 88 hits, 60 RBIs, 18 doubles, six home runs and six stolen bases. The Frontier Community College student was also hit by pitches 29 times in 2026. The record for being struck by the most pitches in a single WCBL season belongs to Matt Wolff of the Brooks Bombers, who was plunked 33 times in 2022.

Just behind Salinas in the batting average race were Cal Gates, who hit .407 with 33 stolen bases this year for the Dawgs. Connor Crowson out of Okotoks posted a .400 batting average while scoring 51 runs, producing 33 RBIs and stealing 11 bases. The 2025 Most Outstanding Canadian in the WCBL had the highest on-base percentage (.539) in the league and finished second in OPS (1.139) behind Hiromoto.

WALK THIS WAY

Kalem Haney (Lethbridge, Alta.), an outfielder and infielder with the Lethbridge Bulls, displayed tremendous patience at the plate this year.

The senior with the University of Mary Marauders drew a league-best 45 walks while batting .333 with a .476 on-base percentage. The lefty batter also led the Bulls in runs (51), hits (61), RBIs (41) and stolen bases (20).

Evan Morrison of the Mavs was issued 42 bases on balls this summer, followed by Soto, who got 41 free passes.

TRIPLE THREAT

Hudson Unger (Swift Current, Sask.) led the circuit in triples, collecting six during the season. In 44 games with the 57's, Unger batted .379 with 44 runs, 38 RBIs, nine homers, 22 walks and seven stolen bases.

Three players finished tied behind Unger with four triples, including Lance Anderson (Regina Red Sox), Chris Franks (Moose Jaw Miller Express) and Carson Young (Fort McMurray Giants).

LIKE RIDING A BIKE

Three batters hit for the cycle this year, achieving the feat of collecting a single, double, triple and home run in the same game.

Aidan Dougherty hit a natural cycle - collecting all four different hits in order - during a 14-3 win for the Dawgs over the Giants on June 26th in Fort McMurray. Dougherty went 4-for-5 with five RBIs and a stolen base in that matchup.

Robert Gurney (Campbell River, B.C.) recorded a cycle for the Weyburn Beavers during a visit to Mitchell Field in Swift Current on July 21st. During that outing, Gurney went 4-for-6 with four RBIs and three runs in a 21-2 romp over the 57's. That was the first cycle in franchise history.

The third cycle of the season took place at Spitz Stadium in Lethbridge on Aug. 1st when Charlie Collins of the Sylvan Lake Gulls went off with a 4-for-4 performance that included three runs scored and a pair of RBI. The big day for the Melbourne, Australia native provided the Gulls with their first cycle in team history.

TEXAS-SIZED 10-4

It's been all systems go for 6-foot-5 righthander Westin Walls this summer.

The towering Texan was an absolute workhorse for the Moose Jaw Miller Express and that showed in the results, which included a 6-1 record during the season.

Walls led the WCBL in innings pitched (82 1/3) and he also set a new single-season record in strikeouts, with 92. The previous high of 91 Ks was set by Sylvan Lake Gulls pitcher Josh Tucker in 2022.

Southpaw Jacob Glazener, also a member of the Miller Express rotation, led the league in wins after going 8-2 in 60 innings, and he finished second in strikeouts with 72 punchouts.

BULLPEN BEASTS

The saves leader in the WCBL was Nathan Pisio, a Moose Jaw product who took the bump for his hometown Miller Express.

In his second season with the Millers, the right-handed closer went 3-0 with seven saves, a 2.08 ERA and 19 strikeouts over 21 2/3 innings.

Brayden Stewart of the Gulls finished in second in the league with five saves. He posted a 2.32 ERA and racked up 55 strikeouts in his 31 innings on the mound.

Lucas Huynh also picked up five saves in just 10 1/3 innings of work. The reliever with the Lethbridge Bulls went 2-0 with nine strikeouts and did not allow a run this season.

August 5, 2026

By Rhett Vasseur

Okotoks Dawgs

The Okotoks Dawgs closed out their regular season with a dominant 9-2 win over the Energy City Cactus Rats in front of 4,912 fans at Seaman Stadium on Wednesday.

With the victory, the Dawgs finished the regular season atop the WCBL’s Western division with a 42-14 record.

The Dawgs’ bats were led by Ricky Sanchez who went 2-for-4. He also made history by playing all nine positions in the contest.

Matt Evans (Tillsonburg, Ont.) had another good day at the plate, going 1-for-3 with a run while Cal Gates added a hit, two runs and two RBIs.

On the mound, right-hander Jaxon Mayervich (Vancouver, B.C.), from the Dawgs Academy, tossed three scoreless innings in his WCBL debut.

Dalton Hoffart and Reid Madriaga also contributed scoreless innings in relief, while position players Ricky Sanchez and Nash Crowell (Yarmouth, N.S.) came in to close out the game, with Crowell freezing the final hitter on a curveball.

The next game for the Dawgs will be Game 1 of the WCBL Playoffs on Friday against the Cactus Rats. First pitch Tuesday is set for 7:05 p.m. at Seaman Stadium.

August 4, 2026

Baseball Canada

This week, Canadian baseball takes over Tecumseh, Ont. and Summerside, P.E.I. between August 5 and August 9 2026 to go head to head in National Championships.

2026 BASEBALL CANADA CUP

Ten teams will compete at Legends Field and VIV Field in Summerside, Prince Edward Island. 

Last year's event was held as part of the Canada Games in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, where British Columbia claimed the gold medal, Prince Edward Island earned silver, and Saskatchewan captured bronze.

An all-time list of Baseball Canada Cup medalists can be found here.

WHAT
2026 Baseball Canada Cup held in Summerside, P.E.I.

WHEN
Round robin play is set to take place between Wednesday, August 5 and Friday August 7. Quarter final games will be held on Saturday August 8, with placement, semi finals and medal games occurring on Sunday, August 9.

WHO
Ten provinces will be represented at the National stage.

• Alberta

• British Columbia

• Manitoba

• New Brunswick

• Newfoundland and Labrador

• Nova Scotia

• Ontario

• Prince Edward Island

• Saskatchewan

• Québec 

HOW TO FOLLOW
Stream the 2026 Baseball Canada Cup via AO Live
Live scoring of all tournament games via Game Changer

MEN’S 2026 22U NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Six teams will compete at Woodslee Orioles Park in Lakeshore, Ont. and Lacasse Park in Tecumseh, Ont. to fight for the 22U National Championship title.

Last year’s edition, held in Dartmouth, Ont., saw Ontario take home gold, while Manitoba captured silver, and Nova Scotia with Bronze.

An all-time list of 22U medalists can be found here.

WHAT
Men’s 2026 22U National Championship held in Tecumseh, Ont.

WHEN
Round robin play is set to take place between Thursday, August 6 and Sunday August 9. All placement and medal games will occur on Sunday, August 9.

WHO
Four provinces will be represented through six teams.

• Manitoba

• Nova Scotia

• Nova Scotia (2)

• Ontario

• Ontario (2)

• Prince Edward Island

HOW TO FOLLOW
22U Men’s Championship stream.

Follow @BaseballCANNats on X and Baseball Canada on Instagram for championship coverage.

August 4, 2026

Official Ottawa Titans News Release

Brockton, Mass - Playing their third doubleheader in three weeks, the Ottawa Titans split a twin-bill against the Brockton Rox on Tuesday afternoon, winning game one 10-3 and dropping game two by a 7-3 final.

Game One - Ottawa 10, Brockton 3

Down to their last three outs, the Titans' offence erupted for an eight-run top of the seventh inning to storm back and win their fourth game in a row.

Taylor Wright (North Vancouver, B.C.) opened up the twin-bill with a solo homer to right on the first pitch of the contest to tie the team lead with homer number 12 on the season.

In the second, a sac fly with the bases loaded from Caleb Burr doubled the lead to 2-0 in the early going.

Dealing through four, Ky Hampton took a no-hitter into the fifth before the Rox connected for three straight one-out hits to tie the game.

Nick Marola's RBI double and a Keagan Calero base hit levelled the score, knocking Hampton out of the game after five solid innings.

In his 10th start of the year, Hampton went five innings, allowing two runs on three hits, walking one, and striking out four.

Heitor Tokar served up a go-ahead solo homer to Scott Seeker with one out in the bottom of the sixth, seeing the Rox take a 3-2 lead.

Facing all-star closer Brendan O'Donnell, the Titans rallied to load the bases with nobody out. Jackie Urbaez looped in a knock, scored a fielder's choice, to tie it. AJ Wright put the Titans ahead for good with a two-run double down the left-field line. For good measure, Hunter Stokely, Michael Fuhrman, and Burr each drove in runs to put the game out of reach.

Scoring eight times in the seventh, the Titans sent 13 to the plate and tallied five hits.

Taylor Wright went 2-for-4 with a homer and an RBI. Myles Smith and Thomas Ferroggiaro each doubled. Caleb Burr knocked in three runs for a second-straight game.

Game Two - Brockton 7, Ottawa 3

Getting out to a quick start yet again, the Titans allowed a pair of big innings on the pitching side to take the split.

For a second consecutive game, Taylor Wright blasted a leadoff solo homer off Matthew Rivera to put the Titans out in front early. Taylor Wright now leads the team with 13 home runs on the year.

After the Rox tied it in the bottom half, the Titans took their last lead of the day with a Hunter Stokely bases-loaded walk in the top of the third.

Dominic Puccetti grinded through the first three frames before the Rox pulled away midway through the contest.

Evan Sleight led off the fourth with a solo homer to tie it, as Keagan Calero and Derek Bender picked up RBI knocks to put the Rox ahead 4-2.

In the fifth, Sleight recorded an RBI double, pushing the lead to 5-2.

The Titans attempted a comeback in the sixth, as Caleb Burr drove in Myles Smith with a sacrifice fly to make it a two-run game.

Puccetti was charged with seven runs over five and a third innings, as the Rox added two for good measure in the sixth. Making his second start back with the Titans and tenth overall, Puccetti allowed 10 hits, walked two, and struck out three.

Austin Gurney (Campbell River, B.C.) and Myles Smith each had two hits in the loss. Taylor Wright homered and also drew a free pass.

The Titans continue their road trip with the third of a four-game series against the Brockton Rox on Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. at Campanelli Stadium in Brockton, Mass. After four games to end the season series with Brockton, the Titans head home over the weekend for a series with the Trois-Rivières Aigles.

August 4, 2026

By Abby Fralic

Okotoks Dawgs

Okotoks, Alta. – The Okotoks Dawgs defeated the Energy City Cactus Rats 12-7 in front of 3,588 fans at Seaman Stadium on Tuesday.

The Dawgs received offensive contributions throughout the lineup, highlighted by Jayden Lusk who went 2-for-3 at the plate with two RBIs, two runs and two walks.

Jordan Kievman continued his strong stretch at the plate, going 3-for-5 with a double, two RBIs and two runs. Meanwhile, Matt Evans (Tillsonburg, Ont.) also added two RBIs, going 2-for-4 with a stolen base, a walk and a run.

The Dawgs' bullpen delivered a strong performance to keep the Cactus Rats' bats in check, with Evan Lehnert, Matthew Tran (Regina, Sask.), Carson Hindmarsh (Saskatoon, Sask.), Wyatt Sadlier (Calgary, Alta.) and Brody Burnette, combining for nine strikeouts and allowing just one run.

The Dawgs will host the Cactus Rats in their final regular season matchup on Wednesday at 7:05 p.m. before beginning their playoff run against the same opponent on Friday at Seaman Stadium.

August 4, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

Emilien Pitre has been so good for the double-A Montgomery Biscuits this season that the New York Mets wanted him included in their deal with the Tampa Bay Rays for veteran right-hander Freddy Peralta on Sunday.

And if the Mets had any doubts about the Repentigny, Que., native’s skills, his performance last week erased them.

In five games with the Biscuits, Pitre had 10 hits and batted .476 — both of those numbers topped Canadian hitters in the affiliated minor league ranks last week and helped him secure the Canadian Baseball Network’s Minor League Player of Week award (July 28 to Aug. 2).

It was the second CBN weekly honour for Pitre this season. He also captured the honour for the week of May 12 to May 17.

Batting seventh and playing second base, Pitre started last week by going 2-for-5 with a triple to help the Biscuits to an 8-7 win over the Milwaukee Brewers’ double-A Biloxi Shuckers on Tuesday.

He followed that up with three hits - including a double - and a walk in another Biscuits’ one-run victory.

After going 1-for-4 in the Biscuits’ 9-8 loss on Thursday, the ABC grad had his third multi-hit game of the week (two singles) in his club’s 14-8 loss on Friday.

And in what turned out to be his final game with the Biscuits on Saturday, Pitre went 2-for-4 with two runs, two walks and an RBI to help his team to a 17-8 rout of the Shuckers.

Pitre completed the week with five runs, a .619 slugging percentage and a 1.212 OPS.

This hot stretch boosted his season average between the Biscuits and the High-A Bowling Green Hot Rods to .308. He also owns a .438 on-base percentage and has four triples and 32 stolen bases in 88 games.

Selected in the second round of the 2024 MLB draft by the Rays, Pitre will report to the Mets’ double-A Binghamton Rumble Ponies.

2026 CBN Minor League Player of the Week winners

Opening Day to April 5 - Cal Quantrill (Port Hope, Ont.), Rangers

April 7 to April 12 - Dante Nori (Toronto, Ont.), Phillies

April 14 to April 19- Matt Wilkinson (Surrey, B.C.), Guardians

April 21 to April 26 - Eric Hartman (St. Albert, Alta.), Braves

April 28 to May 3 - Jonah Tong (Markham, Ont.), Mets

May 5 to May 10 - Jordan Woods (Oakville, Ont.), Royals

May 12 to May 17 - Emilien Pitre (Repentigny, Que.), Rays

May 19 to May 24 - Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.), Diamondbacks

May 26 to May 31 - Matt Wilkinson (Surrey, B.C.), Giants

June 2 to June 7 - Owen Gregg (Oakville, Ont.), Blue Jays

June 9 to June 14 - Tyler Boudreau (Middle Sackville, N.S.), Yankees

June 16 to June 21 - Abraham Toro (Longueuil, Que.), Royals

June 23 to June 28 - Tyson Moran (Wingham, Ont.), Royals

July 7 to July 12 - Tom Poole (Calgary, Alta.), Rays

July 14 to July 19 - Cedric De Grandpre (Saint-Simon-de-Bagot, Que.), Braves

July 21 to July 26 - Charles Davalan, (St-Bruno-De-Montarville, Que.), Dodgers

July 28 to Aug. 2 - Emilien Pitre (Repentigny, Que.), Rays (and now Mets)

Top Canadian Minor League Batters (July 28 to August 2)

Top Canadian Minor League Pitchers (July 28 to August 2)

August 3, 2026

Official MLB Press Release

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Dylan Cease, who started the 96th All-Star Game in Philadelphia for the American League has been voted the American League Pitcher of the Month for July, and All-Star starting pitcher Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves has been named the National League Pitcher of the Month for July.

The announcements were made on Monday on MLB Network.

Cease earned his fourth career award after previously winning as a member of the San Diego Padres in July 2024 and twice with the Chicago White Sox (June and July 2022). It is the first award for a Blue Jays pitcher since his teammate Bowden Francis won in August 2024.

Sale won for the sixth time in his career and second time with the Braves after winning the club’s most recent award in May 2024. He also won twice as a member of the White Sox (May 2012 and June 2015), and twice with the Boston Red Sox (June and July 2018). Sale is the 13th pitcher with at least six career awards and the eighth pitcher to win multiple awards in both leagues, joining Hall of Famer Randy Johnson, Cliff Lee, Jon Lester, Andy Pettitte, Hall of Famer CC Sabathia, Johan Santana and Blake Snell.

Dylan Cease, Toronto Blue Jays (@dylancease7)

-Across five starts, the 30-year-old went 3-1 with a 1.00 ERA (4 ER/36.0 IP) while allowing 15 hits with 11 walks, 46 strikeouts, a 0.72 WHIP, a .125 opponents’ batting average and 11.50 strikeouts per 9.0 innings.

-The Milton, Georgia native was the only pitcher to throw a shutout; led the Majors in opponents’ batting average and WHIP; ranked second among qualified pitchers in ERA; tied for second in innings pitched; and ranked fourth in strikeouts.

-The right-hander threw his fourth career shutout on July 25, going the distance at Boston as he permitted just one hit with three walks and matched a season high with 12 strikeouts. He took a no-hitter into the sixth inning, and it marked the first one-hit shutout by a Toronto pitcher since Brandon Morrow on August 8, 2010. It was Cease’s first shutout with Toronto and he is tied with Max Fried for the most shutouts since 2021. Additionally, he joined Shelby Miller (Braves, Cardinals and Diamondbacks) as the only active pitchers to throw a shutout with three separate franchises.

-The runner-up for the 2022 AL Cy Young Award turned in two starts with double-digit strikeouts as he entered the All-Star Break after an 11-strikeout game at San Francisco on July 8, taking a no-hitter into the ninth inning. Following his 12 strikeouts in his one-hitter at Boston, his seven starts of at least 10 strikeouts are second-most in the American League and third-most in the Majors behind only Cleveland’s Gavin Williams (8 GS of 10+ SO) and Milwaukee’s Jacob Misiorowski (10 GS of 10+ SO). Since his debut in 2019, Cease’s 32 starts of at least 10 strikeouts are tied with his rotationmate Max Scherzer for second-most in the Majors behind only New York’s Gerrit Cole (50 GS of 10+ SO).

-The sixth-round selection in the 2014 Draft (by CHC) became the second Blue Jays pitcher (third occurrence) to record at least 45 strikeouts in a calendar month with an ERA of 1.00-or-less, joining Roger Clemens, who had 61 strikeouts with a 0.89 ERA in July 1997 and 68 strikeouts with a 0.90 ERA in August 1998.

-The 30-year-old right-hander had three strikeouts in the first inning of the Midsummer Classic, marking the eighth time in All-Star Game history that a pitcher had three strikeouts in the first inning. Cease joined Brad Penny (2006, NL); Hall of Famer Pedro Martínez (1999, AL); Dave Stieb (1983, AL); Hall of Famer Jim Palmer (1977, AL); Hall of Famer Warren Spahn (1949, NL); and Hall of Famer Carl Hubbell (1934, NL). He became the fourth Blue Jays pitcher (fifth occurrence) to start the Midsummer Classic, joining Stieb (2x: 1983-84); David Wells (2000); and Hall of Famer Roy Halladay (2009).

Chris Sale, Atlanta Braves

-Across five starts, the 37-year-old went 4-0 with a 2.00 ERA (6 ER/27.0 IP) while allowing 18 hits with just four walks, 34 strikeouts, a 0.81 WHIP, a .186 opponents’ batting average and 11.33 strikeouts per 9.0 innings.

-The Lakeland, Florida native tied for the Major League lead in wins; and among pitchers with at least 20.0 innings pitched, his 8.5:1 strikeout to walk ratio was seventh-best; and he ranked ninth in WHIP.

-The 10-time All-Star is one of three pitchers since the franchise relocated to Atlanta in 1966 to post multiple undefeated months of at least five starts with at least 30 strikeouts and fewer than five walks. Sale also accomplished the feat in May 2024, joining Hall of Famer Greg Maddux (July 1997, August 1997 and June 1998) and Kris Medlen (August 2012) as the only Braves pitchers to achieve the feat in the last 60 years.

-The 2024 NL Cy Young Award winner struck out 11 batters on July 23 against San Diego, marking his third start of at least 10 strikeouts this season. He joined Hall of Famer Warren Spahn as the only left-handers in franchise history with a start of at least 10 strikeouts at age 37-or-older. The start marked Sale’s 94th career 10-strikeout game, surpassing Curt Schilling for seventh-most in the Modern Era (since 1901).

-The southpaw, who won the 2018 World Series with Boston, recorded his 500th career strikeout with Atlanta on July 4, joining his 1,244 strikeouts with Chicago and 945 strikeouts with Boston to become the 10th pitcher all-time with 500 strikeouts for three different franchises. Other pitchers to achieve the feat include: Hall of Famer Bert Blyleven, A.J. Burnett, Roger Clemens, Gerrit Cole, Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley, Zack Greinke, Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry, Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan and Schilling. He now has 2,722 career strikeouts, marking the seventh-most among left-handers all-time and is now 52 strikeouts away from surpassing Frank Tanana (2,773) for sixth-most. Additionally, Sale eclipsed 2,000.0 innings for his career in the fifth inning of his start last week against the Mets. His 2,201.0 career innings are the most among active left-handers and third-most among all active pitchers behind only Justin Verlander (3,571.1) and Max Scherzer (2,993.2).

-The 13th overall pick of the 2010 Draft posted three scoreless starts, dealing 7.0 innings on July 17th against Texas and 6.0 frames in Game 2 of a doubleheader at Citi Field on July 29th, along with a rain-shortened start of 3.0 innings on July 10 at St. Louis. He registered six strikeouts against the Rangers and nine at the Mets as he held both opponents to just two hits and did not issue a walk. Sale has three starts of at least 6.0 scoreless innings in which he allowed two-or-fewer hits and no walks (also: April 1st vs. ATH), matching Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes for the most such starts in the Majors this year.

August 3, 2026

By Jason Young

Winnipeg Goldeyes

WINNIPEG, MAN. – Winnipeg Goldeyes ace Luke Boyd was named the American Association’s Pitcher of the Week for the period ending August 2.

Boyd delivered a gem in his lone start of the week, leading the Goldeyes to a 3-1 victory over the Kansas City Monarchs at Legends Field. The right-hander pitched eight innings, allowing one run on four hits while striking out eight.

The 28-year-old is 7-3 this season with a 4.31 earned run average and 46 strikeouts. His 77 1/3 innings pitched are the most on the staff.

Now in his second season with Winnipeg, Boyd re-signed with the club on January 14 after making 17 starts in 2025. He posted a 5-10 record with a 4.53 ERA over 95 1/3 innings.

The Ojai, California, native was originally selected by the Los Angeles Angels in the 38th round of the 2019 Major League Baseball June Amateur Draft out of Baylor University in Waco, Texas, but chose to return to college. He re-entered the draft in 2021 and was selected by the San Diego Padres in the 17th round.

Boyd spent three seasons in the Padres’ organization, reaching High-A with the Fort Wayne TinCaps in 2021 and 2022.

He joined the Cleburne Railroaders in 2023, playing under current Goldeyes manager Logan Watkins. Boyd spent parts of three seasons with Cleburne and also made a stop with the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks in 2024.

Boyd has compiled a career record of 22-22 with a 4.60 ERA in 118 appearances, including 44 starts.

The Goldeyes were off Monday before opening a four-game series against the Chicago Dogs with a doubleheader Tuesday. The twin bill, consisting of two seven-inning games, was made necessary after the contest originally scheduled for July 5 at Impact Field in Rockford, Illinois, was rained out.

The opener is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Winnipeg will send Boyd to the mound, while Chicago will counter with fellow right-hander Brendan Roberts.

The nightcap will begin approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of game one. The Goldeyes have not announced their starter, while the Dogs are expected to turn to right-hander Dwayne Marshall.

August 3, 2026

By Abby Fralic

Okotoks Dawgs

Okotoks, Alta. – The Okotoks Dawgs closed out their regular season road schedule with a 7-3 win over the Sylvan Lake Gulls on Monday at Gulls Stadium.

Cal Gates led the Dawgs’ offence, going 3-for-4 with a double, two runs and a stolen base.

Ricky Sanchez added two hits, two runs, an RBI, a stolen base and a walk, while Eric Machej (Edmonton, Alta.) belted a home run and collected two RBIs.

On the mound, Xander Guedes (North Vancouver, B.C.), of the Dawgs Academy, earned the victory after delivering four innings of relief, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out five.

Reid Madriaga finished the game with two scoreless innings, limiting the Gulls to one hit while recording two strikeouts.

The Dawgs will now return home for their final two regular season games in which they will take on the Energy City Cactus Rats on Tuesday and Wednesday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. both nights.

August 3, 2026

Official Toronto Blue Jays News Release

The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired right-hander Spencer Arrighetti from the Houston Astros in exchange for outfielder Daulton Varsho and cash considerations.

Arrighetti, 26, made 17 starts for the Astros this season, going 7-5 while recording a 4.60 ERA with a 1.34 WHIP and a .215 opponent average, keeping hitters to just a 30.8% hard-hit rate. The right-hander from Albuquerque, N.M., was selected by the Astros in the sixth round of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, going on to make his MLB debut for the team in 2024. In parts of three MLB seasons, Arrighetti has made 53 career appearances (52 starts), recording a 4.66 ERA with a 1.39 WHIP, a .236 opponent average, and 289 strikeouts over 268 1/3 innings. Arrighetti was named the Astros Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2023.

Varsho, 30, slashed .243/.307/.375 with 19 doubles, two triples, seven home runs, nine stolen bases, and a .682 OPS over 99 contests with the Blue Jays this season. The left-handed hitter from Marshfield, Wisc., was selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2017 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, making his MLB debut for the team in the 2020 campaign. Varsho was acquired by the Blue Jays prior to the 2023 season, and during his time in Toronto, has led all major leaguers in defensive runs saved (63), earning his first career Gold Glove award in 2024. Across seven MLB seasons with the Diamondbacks and Blue Jays, Varsho has slashed .229/.297/.422 with 121 doubles, 21 triples, 106 home runs, 321 RBIs, 62 stolen bases, and a .719 OPS in 747 career games.

Hoffman dealt to Twins

The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired left-hander Dasan Hill, right-hander John Klein, infielder Dameury Pena, and international signing bonus pool space from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for reliever Jeff Hoffman and cash considerations.

Hill, 20, has made 16 starts for the Twins High-A affiliate in Cedar Rapids, putting up a 5.80 ERA with 3.00 FIP, a 35.8% strikeout rate, and a 34.5% whiff rate. The left-hander was selected by the Twins in the Competitive Balance Round B of the 2024 First-Year Player Draft out of Grapevine High School (Texas). In two seasons in the Twins’ system, Hill has made 35 starts, posting a 4.29 ERA with 160 strikeouts over 107.0 innings.

Klein, 24, made his MLB debut for the Twins earlier this season, appearing in 27 contests (14 starts) between the MLB level and triple-A St. Paul, recording a 5.80 ERA with 24.8% strikeout rate over 68 1/3 combined innings. The 6-foot-5, 225-pound right-hander from Brooklyn Park, Minn., was signed by the Twins as a non-drafted free agent in 2022 out of Iowa Central Community College. Over five seasons in the Twins’ minor league system, Klein has made 92 appearances (62 starts), recording a 4.54 ERA with 355 strikeouts across 331 career innings.

Pena, 20, has split the 2026 campaign between Single-A Fort Myers and High-A Cedar Rapids, slashing .300/.373/.362 with 10 doubles, four triples, one home run, 47 RBI, 20 stolen bases, just a 7% strikeout rate, and a .735 OPS. The right-handed hitter from Bonao, Dominican Republic, was signed by the Twins as an international free agent in 2023, playing in 254 minor league contests, slashing .285/.363/.367 with 32 doubles, eight triples, 10 home runs, 124 RBIs, 82 stolen bases, and a .730 OPS.

Hoffman, 33, made 51 appearances for the Blue Jays this season, recording 3.94 ERA with a 2.51 FIP, a 34.9% strikeout rate, a 37.8% whiff rate, and a 26.5% K-BB%. Hoffman returned to the Blue Jays as a free agent prior to the 2025 season, as he was originally selected by the club ninth overall in the 2014 First-Year Player Draft out of East Carolina University. Across 11 MLB seasons, the right-hander from Latham, N.Y., has suited up for the Rockies, Reds, Phillies, and Blue Jays, recording a 4.69 ERA with 638 strikeouts over 378 career appearances (50 starts), while being named an All-Star in 2024.

August 3, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

The Miami Marlins have traded catcher Liam Hicks to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for infield prospects Brayden Taylor and Adrian Santana and pitching prospect Jacob Kisting.

Jeff Passan, of ESPN, was the first to report the transaction.

Hicks (Toronto, Ont.) has enjoyed a breakout season for the Marlins. In 101 games, the 26-year-old Canuck is batting .282 with 14 home runs and 62 RBIs. He’s also one of a select few MLB players with more walks (40) than strikeouts (39). This has helped him post an impressive .363 on-base percentage.

Hicks, who has also seen time at first base and DH with the Marlins, is in his second big league campaign. In 119 games with the Marlins in 2025, he batted .247 with a .346 on-base percentage with six home runs and 45 RBIs.

He joined the Marlins after he was selected from the Detroit Tigers in the Rule 5 draft in December 2024.

A Toronto Mets alum, Hicks was originally chosen in the ninth round of the 2021 MLB draft by the Texas Rangers. He played parts of four minor league seasons in the Rangers and Tigers organizations before graduating to the big leagues.

He made his national team debut with Canada at the World Baseball Classic in March.

Hicks is expected to take over the everyday catching duties with the Rays.

The Marlins have landed three solid prospects in exchange for Hicks. Taylor, 24, was a first-round pick of the Rays in 2023. With the double-A Montgomery Biscuits this season, he owns a .284/.384/.513 slash line and has 17 home runs and 56 RBIs in 88 games.

Santana was taken 12 picks after Taylor in the 2023 MLB draft. The 21-year-old infielder has hit .316 with three home runs and 23 stolen bases in 51 games for the High-A Bowling Green Hot Reds in 2026.

Kisting has been a teammate of Santana’s with the Hot Rods. The 23-year-old right-hander has dominated this season, going 6-0 with a 1.67 ERA in 18 appearances (16 starts). He has 96 strikeouts in 86 innings.

August 3, 2026

Baseball Canada

SASKATOON, SASK. – Québec is golden once again.

Québec captured its second consecutive 19U Women’s National Championship title with a 10–0 victory over Ontario in Sunday night’s gold-medal game at Cairns Field.

The championship capped a perfect 6–0 week for Québec, which scored 76 runs while allowing only 18 throughout the tournament. After opening the event with a hard-fought 6–4 win over Ontario, Québec won each of its final five games by the 10-run rule.

Québec’s offence found another gear as the tournament progressed, earning victories of 20–4 and 13–3 over British Columbia and adding a 13–3 win in its second preliminary-round meeting with Ontario.

The defending champions carried that momentum into Sunday’s semifinal, defeating Alberta 14–4 to secure a return trip to the gold-medal game. Québec then saved its strongest defensive performance for the final, keeping Ontario off the scoreboard to complete its undefeated run.

The victory gives Québec back-to-back national titles after the province captured the inaugural 19U Women’s National Championship in Calgary in 2025, also defeating Ontario in the final.

Ontario advanced to the championship game with an 11–7 semifinal victory over previously unbeaten Saskatchewan. After falling behind early, Ontario scored six runs over the fourth and fifth innings to take control before holding off a late push from the hosts.

The silver medal represents a second consecutive podium finish for Ontario. The team earned victories in both of its preliminary-round games against British Columbia before defeating Saskatchewan in the semifinal, with all three of its tournament losses coming against Québec.

Saskatchewan powers past Alberta for bronze

Saskatchewan closed its tournament in front of the home crowd with a 15–5 victory over Alberta in the bronze-medal game.

Alberta struck first with two runs in the top of the opening inning, but Saskatchewan quickly turned the game around. The hosts sent 12 batters to the plate and scored seven times in the second before adding another run in the third.

Saskatchewan broke the game open with seven more runs in the fourth, building a 15–4 advantage. Alberta added a run in the fifth but could not extend the game as Saskatchewan secured the run-rule victory with 15 runs on 13 hits.

The result completed a second victory over Alberta during the tournament. The two teams also met in one of the week’s most dramatic round-robin games, with Saskatchewan overcoming a late deficit and scoring seven runs in the ninth inning to earn a 19–13 extra-inning win.

Saskatchewan finished the preliminary round with a perfect 3–0 record, also defeating Manitoba 11–1 and Newfoundland and Labrador 11–2 to finish atop Pool B. The hosts concluded the tournament with a 4–1 record and captured bronze for the second consecutive year.

Alberta finished fourth after a strong run through Pool B. The team earned victories over Newfoundland and Labrador and Manitoba before advancing to the semifinal round.

Placement Matchups

Manitoba finished its week on a winning note, defeating British Columbia 12–7 in the fifth-place game.

Manitoba scored four runs in the opening inning and added seven more over the third and fourth to build an advantage that British Columbia could not overcome. The victory secured fifth place for Manitoba, while B.C. completed the tournament in sixth.

Final standings

1. Québec

2. Ontario

3. Saskatchewan

4. Alberta

5. Manitoba

6. British Columbia

7. Newfoundland and Labrador

August 3, 2026

Official Toronto Blue Jays News Release

The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired INF Josh Smith and RHP Josh Stephan from the Texas Rangers in exchange for LHP Adam Macko.

Smith, 28, has split the 2026 season between the MLB level and the Rangers’ triple-A affiliate in Round Rock, slashing .215/.307/.298 with eight doubles, one triple, three home runs, 19 RBIs, nine stolen bases, a 78% contact rate, and a .605 OPS over 68 games. The left-handed hitter from Baton Rouge, La., was selected by the New York Yankees in the second round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of LSU, making his MLB debut for the Rangers in the 2022 season. Over five MLB seasons, Smith has slashed .234/.325/.346 with 69 doubles, five triples, 32 home runs, 136 RBIs, 31 stolen bases, and a .671 OPS in 501 career contests, while logging innings at every defensive position besides catcher.

Stephan, 24, made 21 appearances (19 starts) for triple-A Round Rock, putting up a 5.44 ERA, a 7.0% walk rate, and a 21.9% strikeout rate. The right-hander from DeSoto, Texas, was signed by the Rangers as a non-drafted free agent in 2020 out of South Grand Prairie High School (Texas). Over six seasons in the Rangers system, Stephan has made 102 appearances (92 starts), recording a 4.25 ERA with a 1.25 WHIP and 486 strikeouts across 481 career innings.

Macko, 25, made his MLB debut for the Blue Jays earlier this season, appearing in 22 contests at the MLB level, putting up a 4.91 ERA. The left-hander who grew up in Stony Plain, Alta. was selected by the Seattle Mariners in the seventh round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of Vauxhall Academy of Baseball in Alberta, before being dealt to the Blue Jays prior to the 2023 campaign.

Across seven minor league seasons with the Mariners and Blue Jays, Macko has appeared in 108 games (73 start), putting up a 4.50 ERA with 479 strikeouts in 380 innings. Macko represented Team Canada at the 2026 World Baseball Classic, appearing in three games.

August 3, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

A summary of the transactions involving Canadians from July 1 to July 31:

Major League/Affiliated Minor League Transactions

RHP Kurt Barr (St. Joachim, Ont.) was signed as a free agent by the Minnesota Twins (July 29). He was assigned to the FCL Braves (July 31).

OF Carter Beck (Carnduff, Sask.) was assigned to the Atlanta Braves’ FCL Braves (July 15). He was activated by the FCL Braves (July 29).

LHP Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.) was called up by the Arizona Diamondbacks from the triple-A Reno Aces (July 12).

OF Owen Caissie (Burlington, Ont.) was placed on the 10-day injured list by the Miami Marlins (July 9, 2026). He was sent on a rehab assignment to the Marlins’ triple-A Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (July 28).

RHP Eric Cerantola (Oakville, Ont.) was sent to the triple-A Omaha Storm Chasers by the Kansas City Royals (July 1). He was designated for assignment by the Royals (July 2). He was claimed off waivers by the San Francisco Giants (July 6). He was assigned to Giants’ triple-A Sacramento River Cats (July 6). He was activated by River Cats (July 7).

C Brady Cerkownyk (Etobicoke, Ont.) was assigned to the Washington Nationals’ class-A Fredericksburg Nationals from the FCL Nationals (July 4).

RHP Tyrelle Chadwick (Burnaby, B.C.) was transferred from the seven-day injured list to the 60-day injured list by the Colorado Rockies’ class-A Fresno Grizzlies (July 29).

LHP Hayden Cuthbertson (White Rock, B.C.) was activated by the Miami Marlins’ High-A Beloit Sky Carp (July 17).

RHP Cedric De Grandpre (Saint-Simon-de-Bagot, Que.) was promoted to the Atlanta Braves’ triple-A Gwinnett Stripers from double-A Columbus Clingstones (July 21).

RHP Indigo Diaz (Victoria, B.C.) was released by the Arizona Diamondbacks’ double-A Amarillo Sod Poodles (July 13).

RHP Cole Dorland (Langley, B.C.) was assigned to the Atlanta Braves’ FCL Braves (July 17). He was activated by the FCL Braves (July 29).

LHP Sean Duncan (Port Coquitlam, B.C.) was assigned to the New York Yankees’ FCL Yankees (July 20). He was placed on the full-season injured list (July 23).

INF Owen Gregg (Oakville, Ont.) was activated from the seven-day injured list by the Toronto Blue Jays’ class-A Dunedin Blue Jays (July 2). He was placed on the seven-day injured list by Dunedin (July 9).

RHP Will Hynes (Mississauga, Ont.) was assigned to the Cleveland Guardians class-A Hill City Howers from the ACL Guardians (July 27).

RHP Ryan Heppner (Richmond, B.C.) was assigned to the Atlanta Braves’ class-A Augusta GreenJackets from the FCL Braves (July 9).

LHP Thomas Ireland (Regina, Sask.) was assigned to the Texas Rangers’ double-A Frisco RoughRiders from the triple-A Round Rock Express (July 7).

INF Core Jackson (Wyoming, Ont.) was placed on the seven-day injured list by the New York Yankees’ High-A Hudson Valley Renegades (July 28).

LHP Justin King (Lloydminster, Alta.) was assigned to the Miami Marlins’ triple-A Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (July 12).

C Deiten Lachance (Sherbrooke, Que.) was assigned to the Cleveland Guardians’ ACL Guardians (July 31).

INF Elliot Lascelles (Toronto, Ont.) was assigned to the San Diego Padres’ ACL Padres (July 26). He was activated by the ACL Padres (July 29).

INF Jack Lines (Okotoks, Ont.) was activated from the seven-day injured list by the Tampa Bay Rays’ class-A Charleston RiverDogs (July 28).

3B Matt Lloyd (Okotoks, Alta.) was activated from the seven-day injured list by the Boston Red Sox triple-A Worcester Red Sox (July 7). He was released by Worcester Red Sox (July 19).

LHP Adam Macko (Stony Plain, Alta.) was optioned to the triple-A Buffalo Bisons by the Toronto Blue Jays (July 18). The Blue Jays recalled him from the Bisons (July 23). He was optioned back to the Bisons (July 31).

SS Evan Morrison (Wheatley, Ont.) was assigned to the Texas Rangers ACL Rangers (July 17). He was activated by the ACL Rangers (July 29).

OF Noah Myers (Wyoming, Ont.) was assigned to the Tampa Bay Rays’ High-A Bowling Green Hot Rods from the double-A Montgomery Biscuits (July 7).

C Bo Naylor (Mississauga, Ont.) was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers by the Cleveland Guardians (July 31).

LHP Connor O’Halloran (Mississauga, Ont.) was activated by the Toronto Blue Jays’ class-A Dunedin Blue Jays (July 20). He was assigned to the High-A Vancouver Canadians from the Dunedin Blue Jays (July 28).

OF Keegan O’Hearn (Oshawa, Ont.) was signed as an amateur free agent by the New York Mets (July 16).

INF Robert Omidi (Mississauga, Ont.) was assigned to the Detroit Tigers’ FCL Tigers (July 17). He was activated by the FCL Tigers (July 29).

INF Dylan O’Rae (Sarnia, Ont.) was played on the seven-day injured list by the Milwaukee Brewers’ double-A Biloxi Shuckers (July 29).

RHP Jack Pineau (Thunder Bay, Ont.) was signed by the San Diego Padres and was assigned to the Padres’ ACL Padres (July 26). He was activated by the ACL Padres (July 29).

RHP Owen Pote (Sherwood Park, Alta.) was activated from the 60-day injured list by the Cincinnati Reds’ ACL Reds (July 2).

RHP Damarcus Rideout-Carter (Brampton, Ont.) was activated by the Pittsburgh Pirates’ FCL Pirates (July 29).

RHP Jordan Romano (Markham, Ont.) was promoted to the Colorado Rockies from the triple-A Albuquerque Isotopes (July 4).

OF Sam Shaw (Victoria, B.C.) was placed on the seven-day injured list by the Toronto Blue Jays’ High-A Vancouver Canadians (July 8).

LHP Adam Shoemaker (Cambridge, Ont.) was assigned to the Houston Astros’ High-A Asheville Tourists from the class-A Fayetteville Woodpeckers (July 31).

OF Mathieu Vallee (Saint-Eustache, Que.) was assigned to the Toronto Blue Jays’ double-A New Hampshire Fisher Cats from the High-A Vancouver Canadians (July 28).

LHP Matt Wilkinson (Ladner, B.C.) was activated from the seven-day injured list by the San Francisco Giants’ triple-A Sacramento River Cats (July 5).

C Andy Yerzy (North York, Ont.) was activated from the Development List by the St. Louis Cardinals’ triple-A Memphis Chicks (July 10).

LHP Rob Zastryzny (Edmonton, Alta.) was sent on a rehab assignment to the Milwaukee Brewers’ triple-A Nashville Sounds (July 10). He was placed on the 60-day injured list (July 15).

RHP Calvin Ziegler (Kitchener, Ont.) was sent on a rehab assignment to the New York Mets’ class-A St. Lucie Mets from the High-A Brooklyn Cyclones (July 5). Activated by Cyclones (July 17).

Independent Leagues

American Association

RHP Dominic Hambley (Victoria, B.C.) was traded by the Winnipeg Goldeyes to Missoula (Pioneer League) (July 2).

C Ryan Leitch (Whitby, Ont.) was acquired off waivers from the Kansas City Monarchs by the Gary Southshore Railcats (July 29).

OF TJ Schofield-Sam (Mississauga, Ont.) was traded by the Winnipeg Goldeyes to the Quebec Capitales (Frontier League) (July 2). He was released by the Capitales (July 26).

Frontier League

1B Carter Claerhout (Red Deer, Alta.) was released by the Ottawa Titans (July 28).

OF Taeg Gollert (Toronto, Ont.) was signed by the Trois-Rivieres Aigles (July 22).

LHP Evan Grills (Whitby, Ont.) was signed by the Ottawa Titans (July 7). He was placed on the seven-day injured list by the Titans (July 25).

INF Nick Groves (London, Ont.) was signed by the Quebec Capitales (July 26).

UTL Austin Gurney (Campbell River, B.C.) was signed by the Ottawa Titans (July 28).

RHP Sebastian Khan (Brampton, Ont.) was signed by the Quebec Capitales (July 26).

RHP Landon Leach (Toronto, Ont.) was released by the Trois-Rivieres Aigles (July 30).

RHP Charles Lefebvre (Laval, Que.) was placed on the seven-day injured list by the Trois-Rivieres Aigles (July 31).

RHP Adam McKillican (Comox, B.C.) was released by the Quebec Capitales (July 13).

C Hugh Pinkney (Toronto, Ont.) was signed by the Quebec Capitales (July 7).

INF Gavin Roy (Sudbury, Ont.) was signed by the Trois-Rivieres Aigles (July 21).

LHP Jackson Soucie (Cambridge, Ont.) was signed by the Quebec Capitales (July 25). 

*If I’ve missed someone, please email me at KevinGlew@CanadianBaseballNetwork.com

August 3, 2026

Official Toronto Blue Jays News Release

The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired RHP José Soriano from the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for INF Arjun Nimmala, OF Eddie Micheletti Jr., and RHP Angel Rivero.

Soriano, 27, has made 22 starts for the Angels this season, recording a 3.29 ERA with a 3.81 FIP, a 1.25 WHIP, a .217 opponent average, a 24.9% strikeout rate, and a 2.1 fWAR. Among qualified AL pitchers this season, Soriano ranks second in groundball rate (52.3%), fourth in whiff rate (31.4%), tied for seventh in wins (9), and ninth in ERA.

Soriano was named the AL Pitcher of the Month for March/April, after going 5-1 with a 0.84 ERA, 49 strikeouts, a 0.94 WHIP, and a .164 opponent average over seven starts. The right-hander from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, was signed by the Angels as an international free agent in 2016, going on to make his MLB debut for the club in 2023. Over four MLB seasons, Soriano has gone 26-27 while posting a 3.72 ERA with a 1.30 WHIP, a .231 opponent average, 432 strikeouts, and a 59.8% groundball rate across 113 career appearances (73 starts).

Nimmala, 20, has split the 2026 season between four levels of the Blue Jays system, making stops with the FCL Blue Jays, Single-A Dunedin, High-A Vancouver, and double-A New Hampshire. The right-handed hitting shortstop has combined to slash .265/.364/.453 over 62 total games this year, recording 18 doubles, eight home runs, and 34 RBIs for an .817 OPS. The Tampa, Fla., native was selected by the Blue Jays 20th overall in the 2023 First-Year Player Draft out of Strawberry Crest High School (FL) and has suited up for 281 MiLB contests over the last four years, posting a .761 OPS with 117 extra-base hits and 145 RBIs.

Micheletti Jr., 24, played in 93 contests with double-A New Hampshire, slashing .251/.347/.454 with 20 doubles, four triples, 14 home runs, 45 RBIs, an 11.5% walk rate, a 17.5% strikeout rate, and an .800 OPS. The left-handed hitter from Wilmington, Delaware, was selected by the Blue Jays in the eighth round of the 2024 First-Year Player Draft out of Virginia Tech. Over three seasons in the Jays system, has played in 219 games slashing .244/.368/.438 with 50 doubles, six triples, 30 home runs, 127 RBIs, 137 walks, 154 strikeouts, and an .806 OPS.

Rivero, 19, made 12 appearances (nine starts) for the Rookie-Ball FCL Blue Jays, recording a 2.36 ERA with a 1.38 WHIP, a .226 opponent average, and 52 strikeouts over 42 innings. Rivero was signed by the Blue Jays as an international free agent in 2024, from Cumana, Venezuela. The right-hander has spent three seasons in the Jays system, posting a 3.66 ERA with 132 strikeouts over 34 appearances (30 starts).

August 2, 2026

By Jason Young

Winnipeg Goldeyes

WINNIPEG, MAN – Second baseman Adam Hall hit a go-ahead two-run home run with two out in the bottom of the eighth inning, lifting the Winnipeg Goldeyes to their eighth consecutive victory Sunday afternoon – a 7-6 win over the Lincoln Saltdogs at Blue Cross Park.

With Lincoln leading 6-5 and pinch-runner Raphaël Pelletier (Repentigny, Que.) at first base, Hall (London, Ont.) belted a 0-1 pitch from Saltdogs right-hander Zac McCleve over the left-field wall to give Winnipeg a 7-6 lead.

Goldeyes closer Derrick Cherry entered in the top of the ninth and worked around a two-out walk to centre fielder Cam Phelts, striking out shortstop Nick Shumpert to end the game.

Eli Saul (Vancouver, B.C.) pitched a perfect eighth inning to earn the victory.

Winnipeg opened the scoring in the bottom of the first inning when centre fielder Noah Marcelo hit a two-out, two-run home run to left field with shortstop Ray-Patrick Didder aboard.

After a scoreless second inning, the Saltdogs took a 3-2 lead in the top of the third. Designated hitter Tanner O’Tremba doubled down the right-field line to bring home left fielder Jairo Pomares and right fielder Cary Arbolida, tying the game. Third baseman Calyn Halvorson then lined a single to centre field to score O’Tremba.

The Goldeyes responded in the bottom half of the inning. Third baseman Keshawn Lynch led off with an arcing home run to left that tied the game 3-3 before Didder gave Winnipeg a two-run lead with a single to left field that drove in first baseman Roby Enríquez and right fielder Max Murphy.

Lincoln erased the lead in its next at-bat. Shumpert drove in first baseman Cam Dayton with a single to centre field, cutting Winnipeg’s advantage to 5-4. Two batters later, Arbolida hit a two-run double to left that brought home catcher Griffin Everitt and Shumpert, giving the Saltdogs a 6-5 lead.

James Bradwell (North Vancouver, B.C.) started for Winnipeg and worked 4 1/3 innings, allowing six runs on seven hits while striking out three and walking one. In addition to Saul and Cherry, Quinn Waterhouse and Willian Suárez appeared out of the Goldeyes’ bullpen, which limited Lincoln to two hits over the final 4 2/3 innings.

Saltdogs starter Foster Pace worked five innings, allowing five runs on seven hits. He struck out five and walked one.

Winnipeg is off Monday before hosting the Chicago Dogs for a four-game series that begins with a doubleheader Tuesday. The twin bill, consisting of two seven-inning games, was made necessary when the contest originally scheduled for July 5 at Impact Field in Rockford, Illinois, was rained out.

The opener is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. The Goldeyes will send Luke Boyd to the mound, while Chicago will counter with fellow right-hander Brendan Roberts.

The nightcap will begin approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of game one. Winnipeg has not announced its starter, while the Dogs are expected to turn to right-hander Dwayne Marshall (0-0, 6.00 ERA)

August 2, 2026

By Rhett Vasseur

Okotoks Dawgs

The Okotoks Dawgs got a much-needed 10-3 win over the Swift Current 57’s in front of 5,222 fans at Seaman Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

This was also the Dawgs’ annual Breast Cancer Game, where fans raised over $38,000 bidding on pink game-worn Dawgs jerseys.

With the win, the Dawgs improved to 37-14 on the season and strengthened their lead atop the WCBL’s Western Division.

The Dawgs’ bats were led by Ayden Crouse who went 2-for-4 with two runs and two RBIs.

Jack Lussier (Okotoks, Alta.) also had a good day at the plate, going 1-for-3 with a walk and a pair of RBIs.

Matt Evans (Tillsonburg, Ont.) also went 1-for-3 with a run and an RBI.

On the mound, the Dawgs’ pitching was led by starter Jack Bello (Okotoks, Alta.), of the Dawgs Academy, who went five innings, allowing just two runs and striking out three.

Will Labonte (Montreal, Que.) had a solid relief outing, tossing a scoreless inning. Reid Madriaga did the same in the eighth.

The next game for the Dawgs is set for Tuesday against the Energy City Cactus Rats.

August 2, 2026

Official Toronto Blue Jays News Release

The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired OF Brett Bateman and INF Ty Southisene from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for RHP Kevin Gausman.

Bateman, 24, played 82 games this season with the Cubs’ triple-A affiliate in Iowa, slashing .312/.430/.421 with 18 doubles, two triples, three home runs, 33 RBIs, 20 stolen bases, and an .851 OPS. Among qualified triple-A players this season, Bateman ranks second in OBP (.430), third in walk rate (17.2%), and 12th in contact rate (83.7%). The left-handed hitter from St. Paul, Minn., was selected by the Cubs in the eighth round of the 2023 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Minnesota. Over four seasons in the Cubs’ system, Bateman has slashed .280/.396/.342 with 42 doubles, five triples, six home runs, 112 RBIs, 218 walks, 83 stolen bases, and a .738 OPS.

Southisene, 21, has split this season between the Cubs Single-A affiliate in Myrtle Beach and their High-A affiliate in South Bend, playing in 66 games. The right-handed hitter is slashing .306/.425/.372 with seven doubles, five triples, 35 RBIs, 31 stolen bases, a 12.9% walk rate, an 11.6% strikeout rate, and a .797 OPS. The Las Vegas, Nev., native was selected by the Cubs in the fourth round of the 2024 First-Year Player Draft. Since making his professional debut in 2025, Southisene has led all Cubs minor leaguers in stolen bases (72), while slashing .273/.405/.319 with 13 doubles, seven triples, 71 RBIs, 104 walks, 96 strikeouts, and a .724 OPS.

Gausman, 35, made 23 starts for the Blue Jays this season, posting a 4.38 ERA with a 3.52 FIP, a 1.29 WHIP, a 6.7% walk rate, and a 23.5% strikeout rate. The right-hander from Centennial, Colo., was originally drafted by the Baltimore Orioles fourth overall in the 2012 First-Year Player Draft out of LSU, making his MLB debut in 2013. Gausman signed with the Blue Jays as a free agent prior to the 2022 season, ranking among the franchise’s pitching leaders in strikeouts (920), starts (148), and fWAR (20.6) during his time in Toronto. Across 14 MLB seasons with the Orioles, Braves, Reds, Giants, and Blue Jays, the two-time All-Star (2021 and 2023) has appeared in 384 games (345 starts), recording a 3.85 ERA with 2,081 strikeouts over 2,038 1/3 career innings.

August 2, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired right-hander Jameson Taillon and cash considerations from the Chicago Cubs for a player to be named later or cash considerations.

The Blue Jays made the announcement on Sunday afternoon.

The 34-year-old Taillon has posted a 5.92 ERA in 15 starts with the Cubs this season.

Though he was born in Lakeland, Fla. and drafted out of The Woodlands, Tex., Taillon has Canadian parents. His mother was born in Toronto while his father is from St. Andrews West, Ont. (near Cornwall).

He has pitched for Canada in the 2013 and 2026 World Baseball Classics. In those tournaments, he has combined to allow two earned runs in 7 2/3 innings in two starts.

Selected second overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2010 MLB draft, Taillon made his big league debut with the Bucs in 2016.

The 6-foot-5, 230-pound righty has since pitched in parts of 10 MLB seasons with the Pirates, New York Yankees and Cubs.

In total, he has posted a 84-66 record and a 3.99 ERA in 239 major league appearances (238 starts).

Last season, Taillon was an effective starter for the Cubs, going 11-7 with a 3.68 ERA in 23 starts. He struck out 98 batters in 129 2/3 innings. He had 14 quality starts, while his 1.057 WHIP was second among Cubs’ starting pitchers. He was particularly good in the second half after returning from injuries. In six starts in August and September, he went 4-1 with a 1.57 ERA and had 24 strikeouts in 34 1/3 innings.

He also had a strong start in the third – and deciding game – of the National League Wild Card Series against the Padres last fall, permitting just two hits in four scoreless innings to help the Cubs to a 3-1 win.

To make room for Taillon on the roster, the Blue Jays have transferred infielder Lenyn Sosa to the 60-day injured list.

August 1, 2026

Official Ottawa Titans News Release

The Ottawa Titans opened August with a commanding 9-2 win over the Brockton Rox on Saturday night, powered by three long balls and stellar pitching.

Evan Grills (Whitby, Ont.) got the start for the Titans, picking up his third quality start in five appearances. Grills tossed six innings, giving up two runs on eight hits, not walking a batter, and striking out four.

The Titans got on the board first as AJ Wright scored on a wild pitch in the bottom of the first.

In the third, Jackie Urbaez doubled and Myles Smith singled to extend the lead. Hunter Stokely singled to put two on, and Caleb Burr sent a 427-foot tank of a three-run homer onto Coventry Road to make it 5-0. Burr now has two long balls this series, the first two of his professional career.

The Titans hit back-to-back home runs for the second time in over a week in the fourth. Daniel McElveny launched his fifth long ball of the season, his first at home, and Austin Gurney (Campbell River, B.C.) followed with his first professional home run to make it 7-0.

Rox starter Zach Eldred's day ended in the fourth after 3 1/3 innings, allowing seven runs on nine hits, including three home runs, walking one, and striking out two.

The Rox finally got to Grills in the fifth, as a hit by pitch, double, and a pair of singles brought in two runs.

The Titans answered right back, adding two more in the sixth as Thomas Ferroggiaro delivered a two-run single with the bases loaded to restore the seven-run lead.

Ted Stuka tossed a hitless seventh, allowing just one walk, and Yohanse Morel pitched two clean innings to close out the game.

Jackie Urbaez, AJ Wright, and Hunter Stokely each picked up two-hit games. Caleb Burr, Daniel McElveny, and Austin Gurney each went deep, and Myles Smith went 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and a walk.

With the victory, the Titans have won the season series over the Rox, taking seven of the first eight contests. The Titans are now unbeaten in eight-straight series. The club is also 10 games over the .500 mark for the first time since the 2024 season.

The Ottawa Titans finish a seven-game homestand with the finale of a three-game series against the Brockton Rox on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. at Ottawa Stadium.

August 1, 2026

By Abby Fralic

Okotoks Dawgs

The Okotoks Dawgs came up short against the Energy City Cactus Rats, falling 6-3 in front of a crowd of 4,963 on Fan Appreciation Night at Seaman Stadium on Saturday.

On the mound, Emmet Stacher gave the Dawgs a solid five-inning start, allowing just one run on three hits while striking out four. Brody Burnette followed with two scoreless innings of relief, surrendering just one hit and striking out four.

Offensively, Matt Evans (Tillsonburg, Ont.) paced the Dawgs, going 3-for-4 with a double, a run, an RBI and two stolen bases.

The Dawgs will look to bounce back on Sunday when they host the Swift Current 57's at 2:05 p.m. for the annual Breast Cancer Game at Seaman Stadium.

August 2, 2026

By Trevor Fitzpatrick

Canadian Baseball Network

A downpour didn’t dampen any spirits at Dorchester’s Royal Field as the 2027 CPBL Prospect Game played on Saturday despite the weather.

After a wet night full of offence, the game was called following the top of the ninth inning. Team Black edged out Team White 17-14.

Despite all the hard-hit balls, it was pitcher Elliot Malo (Contrecoeur, Que.) who took home the bat shaped MVP award.

“When I heard them call ABC and started with a four, I thought it was going to be (Gabriel) Lehoullier (Levis, Que.) with his bomb early in the game,” Malo said with a laugh, “I never thought I could win MVP as a pitcher, I mean, the award is a bat.”

The uncommitted ABC left-hander tossed one of the only clean innings of the game, going 1 ⅓ innings with three strikeouts.

“I just wanted to attack out there. The game was long and slow, so I wanted to get guys to bat fast,” Malo explained, “that’s always my approach as a pitcher, get two strikes and end up well.”

It was actually Team White who opened the scoring right in the first inning. As Malo said, his ABC teammate Lehoullier crushed a two-run home run on the first pitch he saw.

Gabriel Lehouillier (Lévis, QC)
- Uncommitted 2027
- Major Left Handed Pop and Feel
- Outfield and First Base
- @GabLehou #WaveAve @Waverly_Ave pic.twitter.com/AL23Vu51LS

— Nic Castonguay (@niccastonguay) August 2, 2026

The lead didn’t last long however, as Team Black immediately answered with nine runs in the second frame.

A wild pitch scored one run, then ABC struck again as Alekk Biasone (Quebec, Que.) hit a sacrifice fly to tie the game.

From there, the flood gates opened. North Dakota State commit Sam Ellis (La Peche, Ont.) got an RBI on a bases loaded walk, Fieldhouse Pirate Alex Wallace (Oakville, Ont.) scored one more with a single, and Wright State commit Galen Hudel (Waterloo, Ont.) bashed an RBI double.

Team Black also added four runs on errors and wild pitches.

Team White did make a valiant effort to comeback from the deficit, even retaking the lead in the bottom of the fourth.

With the game at 9-8, Toronto Met Evan Walker (Ajax, Ont.) hit an automatic double for an RBI, and Lehoullier nearly hit a second home run, but settled for a sacrifice fly nearly 400 feet out in centre field to take the lead.

The game stayed close from there until the top of the seventh inning. It started tied 11-11, but Team Black took the lead again and didn’t look back this time.

Hudel scored another run, this time with a single, and Noah Glenn (Queensville, Ont.) of the Toronto Mets cashed in one more with a 4-3 ground out. The wild inning ended with a wild pitch that led to a run to make it 14-11 Team Black.

They would hold on to that lead for the rest of the game, eventually winning 17-14 after the game was called following the top of the ninth.

Other batters who picked up an RBI in front of the scouts included:

-GLC rep Christian Heffernan (Puslinch, Ont.)

-Ontario Blue Jay Christian Caminero (Mississauga, Ont.)

-Fieldhouse Pirate and Utah Utes commit Will Henderson (Mississauga, Ont.)

-GLC hitter Caleb Quack (Breslau, Ont.)

-Fellow GLC bat Lucas Mclinchey (Strathroy, Ont.)

-ABC member Ludovic Therriault (Saint Malo, Que.)

-Charles Lepine (Quebec City, Que.), also of ABC

-Shayne Gagne (Long Sault, Ont.) representing ONC.

Only the two 14U games remain on this year’s CPBL Prospect Games schedule, with both Sunday contests being delayed by rain.

The 14U minor game is now set for 1 p.m., while the 14U major game will throw their first pitch at 5 p.m.

August 2, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Cooperstowners in Canada

Some Canadian baseball news and notes:

Gausman: Great pitcher, great Blue Jays ambassador

Kevin Gausman might not be the greatest pitcher to grace the mound for the Toronto Blue Jays, but he might be the happiest one.

Speaking with the media on Saturday, after what was likely his final start as a Blue Jay before Monday’s 6 p.m. E.T. trade deadline, Gausman said signing with the Blue Jays prior to the 2022 season was the best decision he ever made.

Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins might reflect similarly on his decision to sign the right-hander to a five-year, $110-million deal, which expires at the end of the season.

Gausman has been a model of consistency with the Blue Jays and a breath of fresh air in the clubhouse and in the city.

Just how consistent has Gausman been with the Blue Jays?

Here’s how he ranks among MLB pitchers from 2022 to present:

-920 strikeouts (2nd)

-148 starts (3rd)

-861 innings pitched (3rd)

-3 complete games (tied for 7th)

-53 wins (9th)

-3.62 ERA (17th among pitchers with at least 100 starts)

Lopez still leading MLB in hits

We are now more than 110 games into the MLB season and Miami Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez is still leading MLB hitters with 139 hits.

He also ranks third in batting average (.322), trailing only San Francisco Giants second baseman Luis Arraez (.328) and Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez (.324).

The 27-year-old shortstop, who spent part of his youth in Montreal, is also tied for second in MLB with seven triples.

Lopez has played for Canada at the last two World Baseball Classics.

Quantrill earns fourth win of season

On Tuesday, in his sixth start of the season, right-hander Cal Quantrill (Port Hope, Ont.) allowed just one run on two hits, while striking out seven, in 5 2/3 innings to pick up his fourth win of the year in the Texas Rangers’ 4-1 win over the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field.

With that win, Quantrill equaled his win total for the 2025 season that he split between the Marlins and Atlanta Braves.

The 31-year-old righty has been effective as a swingman for the Rangers this season. In total, in 22 appearances, he is 4-3 with a 3.84 ERA and has 39 strikeouts in 58 2/3 innings.

O’Neill homers for O’s

On Monday, Baltimore Orioles outfielder Tyler O’Neill (Maple Ridge, B.C.) belted his seventh home run of the season. It was a pinch-hit, solo shot off Detroit Tigers’ left-hander Tyler Holton in the Orioles’ 8-5 win at Comerica Park.

It was O’Neill’s second pinch-hit home run of the season and the third of his career.

That homer was also the 125th of O’Neill’s MLB career which moved him ahead of Corey Koskie (Anola, Man.) into sole possession of ninth place on the all-time Canadian MLB home run list.

Smith first to 30 saves

Cleveland Guardians closer Cade Smith (Abbotsford, B.C.) recorded his 30th save of the season on Tuesday. The following day I wrote that Smith had become the sixth Canadian to register 30 saves in a major league season. What I neglected to mention, however, was that Smith was the first major league pitcher to reach 30 saves in 2026.

With two months left in the season, Smith could become the first Canadian to collect 40 saves in a season since John Axford (Port Dover, Ont.) had 46 with the Brewers in 2011.

The record for most saves in a season by a Canadian is held by Eric Gagne (Mascouche, Que.) who had 55 saves for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2003.

Naylor to report to Brewers’ triple-A Nashville Sounds

Catcher Bo Naylor (Mississauga, Ont.) will report to the Brewers’ triple-A Nashville Sounds after being acquired from the Guardians in a four-player trade yesterday.

I wrote about it here.

Naylor will join his 2026 World Baseball Classic teammate Tyler Black (Stouffville, Ont.) in Nashville.

For the record, the last Canadian catcher for the Brewers was George Kottaras (Scarborough, Ont.) who played parts of three seasons with the Brewers from 2010 to 2012.

Happy Birthday to Steve Sinclair!

Happy 55th Birthday to former Blue Jays reliever Steve Sinclair!

Born in Victoria, B.C, Sinclair was selected in the 28th round of the 1991 MLB draft by the Blue Jays. He spent the bulk of his first three seasons in the Blue Jays’ organization with their Rookie ball affiliate in Medicine Hat as a starter.

He eventually rose through the club’s ranks to make his big league debut on April 25, 1998. In 24 appearances for the Blue Jays that season, he posted a 3.60 ERA. After just three games with the Blue Jays in 1999, he was dealt to the Seattle Mariners along with right-hander Tom Davey for first baseman David Segui just prior to the trade deadline. Sinclair closed out his big league career by registering a 3.95 ERA in 18 appearances for the Mariners in 1999.

Since hanging up his playing spikes, Sinclair has returned to his home province to serve as the director of operations of the Victoria International Marina.

Quirky Romano stat

Jordan Romano (Markham, Ont.) has pitched well for the Colorado Rockies since being called up on July 4.

He is now five-for-five in save opportunities with them.

But he began the year with the Los Angeles Angels, and though he had four saves for them, he struggled to a 10.13 ERA in 11 appearances and was released on April 27.

I tell people my favourite kind of baseball stat is a quirky Canadian baseball stat. So I would like to thank Sam Blum for posting this one (below) about Romano on Tuesday (As noted earlier, since Blum’s post, Romano has notched his fifth save with the Rockies).

16 years ago, Blue Jays set doubles record

On this date 16 years ago, the Blue Jays tied a major league record when they clubbed six doubles in one inning.

They accomplished this in the fifth inning against the New York Yankees in their 8-6 win at Yankee Stadium. Travis Snider had two of the doubles for the Blue Jays. The other Blue Jays to double in the inning were Fred Lewis, Jose Bautista, Vernon Wells and Aaron Hill.

Anniversary of Canada’s first win in international competition

Fifty-nine years ago today, the Canadian men’s national team won their first game in an international competition when they beat Cuba 10-9 at the Pan Am Games in Winnipeg.

Maurice Oakes (Sturgis, Sask.) homered and drove in four for Canada. Larry Wilson (Hamilton, Ont.) also homered.

It was Cuba’s first loss of the tournament.

Bratt puts together best MLB start yet

Arizona Diamondbacks left-hander Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.) put together the best start of his young big league career on Friday when he held the Guardians to one run on three hits in five innings. He got a no-decision but the D-Backs eventually won 4-1.

Bratt is still searching for his first big league win, but he lowered his ERA to 5.23 in five MLB starts.

The 23-year-old Toronto Mets and Junior National Team grad was excellent for the D-Backs’ triple-A Reno Aces this season, posting a 2.41 ERA in 13 starts before he was promoted to the big league club for the second time this year on July 12.

Four years ago, Blue Jays acquired Pop

On this day four years ago, the Blue Jays landed right-hander Zach Pop (Brampton, Ont.) and reliever Anthony Bass from the Marlins in exchange for infield prospect Jordan Groshans.

Pop proceeded to post a 4.89 ERA in 90 appearances in parts of three seasons with the Blue Jays from 2022 to 2024.

Groshans batted .262 in 17 games with the Marlins in 2022 but has not played in the big leagues since. He is currently with the Braves’ double-A Columbus Clingstones.

Baseball in Dorchester has come a long way

Some of the best nights of my youth were spent playing baseball at a diamond in Dorchester, Ont. where we had a gravel infield and foul balls would regularly end up in the backyards of my friends. I played centre field and there was no outfield fence. If a ball went over my head, I had to run across a soccer field – sometimes with a game in progress – to retrieve it.

Fast forward to 2026, I spent Friday at beautiful Royal Field in Dorchester taking in the Canadian Premier Baseball League’s 2029 Prospect Game. The field has major league dimensions, the turf is from the Rogers Centre and the players were some of the top 15- and 16-year-old prospects in Canada. There was a scoreboard, a PA announcer and a black backdrop in centre field (so players can see the ball better out of the pitcher’s hand). And if you scanned the stands, among the scouts and college recruiters, you would have seen at least four ex-big leaguers – Adam Stern (London, Ont.), Chris Robinson (Dorchester, Ont.), Jamie Romak (London, Ont.) and Pete Orr (Newmarket, Ont.).

Stern, Robinson and Romak run the Great Lake Canadians who play their home games on this field and are producing big leaguers like Eric Cerantola (Oakville, Ont.).

My kudos to Stern, Robinson and Romak for what they have accomplished with the Great Lake Canadians and what they have done for baseball in my hometown. When I was growing up, I never would’ve imagined that Dorchester would become a baseball hotbed but they have made it one, and I’m delighted to see this.

August 1, 2026

By Trevor Fitzpatrick

Canadian Baseball Network

Day two of the 2026 CPBL Showcase began on Saturday with the class of 2028 battling on Dorchester, Ontario’s beautiful Royal Field.

The clear skies would be the only nicety Team Black would receive though, as they found themselves on the wrong end of a 17-5 beatdown at the hands of Team White’s prospects.

Headlining the offensive outburst was the game’s MVP, Fieldhouse Pirate Austin Burton (Waterloo, Ont.). The uncommitted catcher had a 3-for-4 day at the dish with a three-run home run, two singles and four RBIs.

He also added a stolen base and threw out a runner for good measure.

“It was pretty cool,” Burton said, “I’ve been here the last couple of years, and always just tried to put out my best. Today everything turned out to be on my side.”

‘28 Austin Burton (@FHPirates) loses this one deep to RF for a 3-run 💣. Easy impact with extension out front, smooth swing with strength in the hands. #CPBLxPG @CPBLeague https://t.co/byRzc4sjQi pic.twitter.com/BYE3zgemJW

— Perfect Game International (@pg_int1) August 1, 2026

His home run was a laser beam that soared over the left field wall, which sits about 328 feet from home plate.

“The first pitch I took, I knew I had to get a feel for the pitcher. The second pitch, I knew I had it. From there, I was looking middle-in, got it, and drove it.”

The football game worth of scoring started right in the first inning for Team White as they scored four.

Toronto Met Noah Stanley (Lakefield, Ont.) scored the first run with an RBI ground out, ONC rep Ben Laughlin (Ottawa, Ont.) drove another run in with a single, and then Ontario Blue Jay Cole Zwarich (Unionville, Ont.) cleared the bases with a two-run double.

The scoring onslaught continued from there.

ABC prospect Raphael Besancon (Boucherville, Que.) cashed in with an RBI triple in the bottom of the third, and Burton mashed his home run in the fourth.

Then in the fifth, Toronto Mets outfielder Dreydan Sunohara-Thompson (Scarborough, Ont.) drilled an RBI double into the gap. Windsor Selects hitter Taesean Tate (Windsor, Ont.) brought yet another home with a 5-3 RBI ground out.

Other Team White RBIs in the contest include Fieldhouse Pirate Hunter Bartha (Beamsville, Ont.), Besancon with a second one, and Burton’s single in the eighth.

Team Black did make some noise late in the game, but not nearly enough to mount a comeback in front of the packed crowd.

Their first run came in the top of the seventh inning as Toronto Met Harry Philips (Toronto, Ont.) took a walk, then scored all the way from first on an errand pickoff throw.

Later in the frame, Great Lake Canadian A.J. Rusticus (Dorchester, Ont.) knocked in two runs on a single.

They were only able to notch two more runs in the top of the ninth as Beau Marshall (Peterborough, Ont.), of the Toronto Mets, hit a sacrifice fly for one, and Rusticus then hit another RBI single.

Of the pitchers present, Team White starter Johann Sternberg (Toronto, Ont.) had the best outing. He hurled two scoreless frames with two strikeouts while representing OBJ.

The CPBL Showcase continues to grow annually, with nearly the entire seating section behind home plate full of college and MLB scouts this year.

Also in attendance was Blue Jays rep Geoff Seto, who’s in charge of the Canadian Futures Showcase.

That showcase is set for September in Vancouver, with rosters still being finalized, making it possible some players may have earned their tickets during this game.

Aug. 1, 2026

By Tyson Shushkewich

Canadian Baseball Network

The 2026 MLB draft is in the rearview mirror, and Major League teams are now focused on the trade deadline.

Some clubs are looking to add to their rosters for a postseason push, while others are focused on restocking the prospect cupboard after a disappointing season.

While the 2027 MLB draft is more than a year away (if there even is one with the pending lockout), it's never too early to look at some Canadians who could hear their names called early next summer.

Brendan Lawson – INF

Florida Gators

No player is generating more buzz on the 2027 MLB draft circuit than Toronto, Ontario's Brendan Lawson—and that's not just among Canadians.

Lawson is a prominent name on 2027 draft boards across numerous publications, and for good reason. After deciding to attend college following a rough senior season, during which an illness kept him on the sidelines, Lawson honoured his commitment to the University of Florida and has taken the college circuit by storm.

As a freshman, he appeared in 60 games and posted a .939 OPS with 10 home runs before capping off his summer with an impressive stint in the Cape Cod League, where he slashed .333/.398/.519 in one of the toughest summer leagues in baseball.

He then returned to campus and anchored the Gators' infield at shortstop. At the plate, he posted video game-like numbers, slashing .312/.511/.699 with a 1.210 OPS, 11 doubles, 19 home runs and 48 RBIs while drawing 53 walks compared to just 46 strikeouts.

The 2026 Baseball America Second-Team All-American shortstop is poised for an even bigger junior season with the Gators, and there's a chance he could surpass Adam Loewen (Surrey, B.C.) as the highest-drafted Canadian next summer.

Jalen Jacob – INF

Ontario Blue Jays

Turning our attention to the prep ranks, infielder Jalen Jacob has been a consistent presence on the Canadian baseball scene.

Jacob has attended the Canadian Futures Showcase in multiple years and was named to the Junior National Team this past season. As one of the younger players on the roster, Jacob faced an uphill battle against older, more experienced competition, but the left-handed hitting first baseman held his own.

In MLB Draft League play, he posted a .751 OPS with one double and one home run across six games. During the club's Dominican Republic Pro Trip this past spring, he slashed .214/.410/.214 with a .625 OPS against some tough professional arms.

Power is Jacob's calling card, and he uses his 6-foot-2 frame to his advantage at the plate. That power should only continue to develop as he matures.

Calum Andersen – RHP

Vauxhall Jets

Calum Andersen exploded onto the scene in 2026.

The Calgary, Alta., product stood out at the 2025 Canadian Futures Showcase before capping off the year by earning the Most Outstanding Pitcher Award at the Future Stars Series Underclass Elite Showcase in Texas.

His performance at that event caught the attention of the Junior National Team coaching staff, and with Sean Duncan (Port Coquitlam, B.C.) now in the Yankees organization, Andersen is expected to anchor the JNT rotation over the next year. During the team's Spring Training trip in Florida, Andersen allowed just one earned run across six innings (1.50 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) before following that with another strong showing during the Dominican Republic trip, where he posted a 2.21 ERA while striking out eight batters.

Already sitting in the low 90s with his fastball, Andersen has a strong chance to become the first Canadian prep pitcher selected in next year's draft.

Josh Mills – LHP

Okotoks Dawgs

Joining Andersen on the list of names to watch is left-hander Josh Mills.

A product of the Okotoks Dawgs program, the Leduc, Alta., native is one of the newer faces on the Junior National Team, having joined the club for its Dominican Republic Fall Trip in 2025. However, he's already showing scouts why head coach Greg Hamilton has trusted him with a rotation spot despite being one of the younger players on the team.

Mills is a strikeout machine. During the JNT's recent trips—Spring Training, the Dominican Republic Spring Trip and the MLB Draft League—he led the team in strikeouts during one showcase while finishing second in another. He recorded nine strikeouts during the Florida trip and added another nine in the Dominican Republic, both against professional competition.

Ironically, he didn't pile up strikeouts in the MLB Draft League, recording just three over five innings. However, he more than made up for it by allowing just two hits, issuing four walks, and surrendering no earned runs, making him the only Canadian pitcher to finish with a 0.00 ERA.

There are still some areas to refine in his game—primarily command and limiting walks, which is typical for prep pitchers—but he mixes a fastball, slider/sweeper and splitter effectively. By next spring, he should be sitting comfortably in the low 90s with his fastball on a consistent basis.

Aug. 1, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

The Milwaukee Brewers have acquired Canadian catcher Bo Naylor from the Cleveland Guardians.

Naylor (Mississauga, Ont.) is headed to Milwaukee along with right-hander Codi Heuer in exchange for right-hander Craig Yoho and outfielder Blake Perkins.

The teams announced the transaction on social media on Saturday morning.

Naylor has played the bulk of 2026 with the Guardians’ triple-A Columbus Clippers after the Guardians acquired Patrick Bailey on May 9. Naylor was also mired in a long slump with the Guardians at the time.

In 45 games with the Clippers, he put together a .225/.344/.437 slash line and a .781 OPS. He had seven home runs and 24 RBIs.

He batted .143 with two home runs and seven RBIs to begin the season with the Guardians.

The 26-year-old Naylor had been the Guardians’ regular catcher in 2024 and 2025. He belted a career-high 14 home runs in 2025 and batted .353 in four games for Canada at this year’s World Baseball Classic.

An Ontario Blue Jays and Junior National Team graduate, Naylor was selected in the first round of the MLB draft by the Guardians in 2018. His stretch with the Clippers this year represented his first in the minors since 2023.

In total in 346 MLB games, Naylor has 40 home runs and 125 RBIs.

The Brewers have All-Star William Contreras as their starting catcher and veteran Gary Sanchez as his back-up, so it’s uncertain if Naylor will report to the big league club or be assigned to triple-A.

July 31, 2026

Baseball Canada

OTTAWA, ONT. – History will be made on August 1 when the Women's Professional Baseball League (WPBL) launches its inaugural season in Springfield, Ill., with 11 Canadians set to take part.

The Canadian contingent includes nine members of Canada's Women's National Team that recently secured a berth in the 2027 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Finals with a third-place finish at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Group Stage in Rockford, Illinois.

The four-team league features the Boston Hunters, Los Angeles Queens, New York Heights and San Francisco Firebells, with all games being played at Robin Roberts Stadium in Springfield.

Canadians in the WPBL

Boston Hunters wpbl_hunters

• Raine Padgham (Burnaby, B.C.)

• Alli Schroder (Fruitvale, B.C.)

• Maïka Dumais (Québec, Que.)

San Francisco Firebells wpbl_firebells

• Andréanne Leblanc (Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Que.)

• Ela Dy-Bédard (Gatineau, Que.)

• Liz Gilder (Port Moody, B.C.)

Los Angeles Queens wpbl_queens

• Michelle Roche (Burnaby, B.C.)

New York Heights wpbl_heights

• Jaida Lee (St. John's, N.L.)

• Madison Willan (Edmonton, Alta.)

• Claire Eccles (Surrey, B.C.)

• Elodie Ciamarro (Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Que.)

Padgham, Schroder, Leblanc, Dy-Bédard, Gilder, Roche, Lee, Willan and Eccles all represented Canada at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Group Stage in Rockford, where Canada posted a 3-2 record to earn one of three qualifying berths for the 2027 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Finals, which will also be held in Rockford.

How to Watch

Fans in the United States can watch every regular season and playoff game on ESPN Select, while the Scripps Sports Network will broadcast a select schedule of regular season games.

For fans in Canada and around the world, every WPBL game will be streamed live on YouTube, making it easy to follow Canada's professional players throughout the inaugural season.

The season opens on Saturday, August 1, with the New York Heights taking on the Los Angeles Queens. The Boston Hunters and San Francisco Firebells, featuring six Canadians, will begin their seasons on Sunday, August 2, at 7:30 p.m. E.T.

July 31, 2026

By Jason Young

Winnipeg Goldeyes

WINNIPEG, MAN. – The Manitoba Mosquitoes came out buzzing, building a commanding early lead en route to an 11-4 victory over the Lincoln Saltdogs Friday evening at Blue Cross Park.

The Mosquitoes — the Winnipeg Goldeyes’ wildly successful first foray into the alternate-identity trend — swarmed the downtown ballpark for one night only.

Manitoba drew first blood in the bottom of the first inning when left fielder Keshawn Lynch lined a two-run single to left field, scoring shortstop Ray-Patrick Didder and second baseman Adam Hall (London, Ont.). Catcher Raphaël Pelletier (Repentigny, Que.) followed with a two-run double to right field that brought home centre fielder Noah Marcelo and Lynch to make it 4-0. First baseman Kevin García capped the five-run inning with a sacrifice fly to left, allowing Pelletier to score from third.

In the bottom of the second, Didder scored on a delayed double steal to make it 6-0 before Marcelo reached on a fielding error that allowed Hall to score Manitoba’s seventh run of the game.

The Mosquitoes proved impossible to swat away, striking for four more runs in the bottom of the third inning. Didder blooped a two-run double to left-centre, driving in García and right fielder Roby Enríquez. Marcelo then doubled down the left-field line to bring home Didder and Hall, extending Manitoba’s lead to 11-0.

Lincoln finally found a way to repel Mosquitoes starter Ryo Kohigashi in the fifth inning. Second baseman Paul Myro singled up the middle to drive in centre fielder Cam Phelts and left fielder Jairo Pomares, cutting the deficit to 11-2. Third baseman Calyn Halvorson followed with a two-run double down the right-field line, bringing home right fielder Cary Arbolida and Myro to make it 11-4. Kohigashi exited one out shy of qualifying for the win.

Kohigashi allowed four runs on seven hits over 4 2/3 innings, striking out nine and walking two. The 28-year-old ranks second in the American Association with 79 strikeouts this season. Arij Fransen, Willian Suárez, and Sage Ferguson combined to pitch 4 1/3 scoreless innings in relief as Manitoba’s pitching staff finished with 14 strikeouts.

Saltdogs starter Alex Johnson allowed 10 runs — nine earned — on five hits over just two innings while issuing five walks. Cam Dayton was outstanding in relief, pitching the final six innings and surrendering only one run on one hit.

Despite being limited to six hits, the Mosquitoes received three runs batted in from Marcelo, while Didder and Hall each scored three times.

The series continues Saturday at 6 p.m., with the Goldeyes sending right-hander James Colyer to the mound. The Saltdogs will counter with right-hander Cael Chatham.

July 31, 2026

By Abby Fralic

Okotoks Dawgs

The Okotoks Dawgs fell 4-3 to the Sylvan Lake Gulls on Friday at Gulls Stadium.

The Dawgs collected 11 hits and Ayden Crouse led the offence, going 3-for-4 with an RBI, a run and a stolen base.

Ricky Sanchez added two hits, while scoring the Dawgs' first run of the game.

Xander Guedes (North Vancouver, B.C.), from the Okotoks Dawgs Academy, turned in two scoreless innings of relief, allowing one hit while striking out four. Reid Madriaga closed the game with 1 2/3 scoreless innings of his own, striking out four and allowing just one hit to keep the Dawgs within reach.

The Dawgs will look to bounce back in their next home matchup on Saturday when they host the Energy City Cactus Rats at 7:05 p.m.

July 31, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

It was a home field hero that led Team Black to a 12-7 win over Team White in the 2029 Canadian Premier Baseball League Prospect Game at Royal Field in Dorchester, Ont., on Friday.

Batting cleanup for Team Black, Great Lake Canadians (GLC) third baseman Mattias Jimenez had two hits – including a triple – and knocked in four runs. He also walked and scored twice.

And for good measure, Jimenez also made an outstanding play at third base in the eighth inning on a softly hit ground ball with some backspin by Team White leadoff hitter Victor Rengel-Lopez (Mississauga, Ont.). Jimenez charged the ball and threw off balance to get the speedy Ontario Blue Jays outfielder at first.

"It feels awesome," said Jimenez of his performance. "It's a great opportunity to play in the prospects game here . . . It's also really good to win the game."

Jimenez hails from the Dominican Republic and has been with GLC since 2023. His favourite major league player is third baseman Manny Machado. His play in the eighth inning was vintage Machado.

‘29 Jacob Gagnon (@ABCacademie)#CPBLxPG @CPBLeague pic.twitter.com/8yXrZZfeLT

— Perfect Game International (@pg_int1) July 31, 2026

On Team White, it was right fielder Jacob Gagnon (Quebec, Que.) who starred. He went 2-for-3 with a ground rule double, a triple, two runs and two stolen bases. For his efforts, the ABC product was named the game's Most Valuable Player.

"It feels really good," said Gagnon about the honour after the game, adding that it ranked among the top awards he has received.

Gagnon and his family drove 10 hours from Quebec City to be at the event.

Unfortunately for him, his team got behind early and couldn't recover.

Team Black scored four runs on five hits and a walk in the first inning off ABC right-hander Matis Trahan (Mercier, Que.) who was replaced by Toronto Mets righty Nate Hill (Markham, Ont.) with two outs.

Team Black leadoff hitter Jake Anderson (Toronto, Ont.), of the Ontario Blue Jays, got things started with a single and promptly stole second. It was his first of four stolen bases in the contest. He would score on a two-run single to right by Jimenez.

Team Black added another run in the third when Anderson walked to start the inning and stole second and third before crossing the plate on a ground out to short by Jimenez.

Team White got on the board in the fourth when first baseman Nathan Zaretsky (King City, Ont.), of the Ontario Astros, clubbed a ground-rule double to left and Gagnon followed with a triple.

Team Black made it 6-1 in the sixth inning when shortstop Victor Lauziere (Greenfield Park, Que.), of ABC, walked and Jimenez tripled him home.

Team White responded with a run in the bottom of the frame when Rengel-Lopez walked and stole second. He was then held at third on a single by Braylon Stern (London, Ont.), of GLC, before he scored on a sacrifice fly to centre field by Grayson Mowat (Toronto, Ont.) of the Toronto Mets.

Team White added two more runs the following frame when Gagnon led off with a walk and stole second and third and scored on a fielder's choice grounder to second base by J.J. Agustin (Concord, Ont.), of the Ontario Blue Jays. Agustin later scored on an RBI single by Nate Hill to make it 6-4.

But the game unraveled for Team White in the top of the ninth when Team Black scored six runs on four walks and four hits. Blake Woolburgh (Toronto, Ont.), of the Ontario Blue Jays, delivered a two-run single for Team Black in the frame.

Team White did manage to plate three runs in the bottom of the ninth to make it 12-7. Two of the runs came in on wild pitches and one via an RBI single from Carson Slezsak (Brantford, Ont.), of GLC.

Friday's game featured the CPBL's top 15- and 16-year-old players.

The 2027 and 2028 Prospects Games are scheduled for Saturday at Royal Field in Dorchester, Ont., while the 14U Minor and Major games will go on Sunday.

The CPBL holds Prospects games following their season each year to showcase the league's top talent to prospective colleges.

One of deepest crops of CPBL prospects

Jamie Romak, Great Lake Canadians director of player performance, says the crop of 15- and 16-year-olds playing in the 2029 CPBL Prospect Game on Friday were one of CPBL's deepest yet.

"The 2008 birth year - so the 2026 prospects - were super strong, but these kids remind me of that class," said Romak. "It's really deep. It's athletic in the middle. There are some big arms on the mound. I'm guessing we'll see two or three arms at 90 miles per hour tonight . . . It's a very impressive class of kids and I'm super excited for the future of Canadian baseball."

Romak expects representatives from about 20 colleges and universities to be present at Royal Field over the weekend to take in the Prospect games.

"These (Prospect games) have really become the premier recruiting event for what we do in the CPBL," said Romak. "It's a great event for schools to come and find top Canadian talent. It's also another great opportunity for these kids to play amongst the best players around the league that they have spent the whole summer competing against."

Over the years, the CPBL has developed over 180 MLB draft picks, 22 pro players and 57 junior national team players. CPBL players have also secured more than 800 college commitments.

July 31, 2026

By Tyson Shushkewich

Canadian Baseball Network

Mathieu Vallee’s time on the West Coast was short-lived.

Earlier this week, the Saint-Eustache, Que., product was promoted from the High-A Vancouver Canadians to the double-A New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Roster spots opened up throughout the Blue Jays' farm system after the club assigned recently drafted players to affiliated teams below Vallee while trimming rosters across multiple levels.

Signed by the Blue Jays as a free agent this past winter, Vallee’s brief time in the organization has been filled with highs and lows.

The outfielder began his professional career in Vancouver, but it lasted just two games before he landed on the injured list. The injury kept him sidelined for more than two months, and he officially returned to the field on June 8 in a rehab game with the FCL Blue Jays. After a six-game stint there, Vallee was reassigned to Vancouver, where he remained until this latest promotion.

With the Canadians, Vallee posted a .310/.394/.397 slash line with a .791 OPS and a .375 BABIP. The 25-year-old also recorded a 119 wRC+ and a .369 wOBA over that 21-game sample, while posting a 10.3% walk rate. A contact hitter by trade, Vallee collected five doubles and did not hit a home run in the Northwest League, but he used his speed to steal seven bases.

During his limited time in the FCL, he collected five hits in 17 at-bats while adding another seven stolen bases, bringing his season total to 14.

Defensively, Vallee has split his time among all three outfield positions, making slightly more appearances in centre field than in the corners. The Quebec native owns a perfect fielding percentage and has recorded one outfield assist.

Vallee signed with the Blue Jays after an impressive campaign with Trois-Rivières in the independent Frontier League in 2025 that earned him the Canadian Baseball Network’s Murray Zuk Award, which is presented annually to the top Canadian position player in independent baseball. He also set a Frontier League record with 83 stolen bases while posting an .841 OPS across 88 games.

July 31, 2026

By Trevor Fitzpatrick

Canadian Baseball Network

Five years ago, Thomas Ireland (Regina, Sask.) was drafted by the Texas Rangers alongside fellow Canadians and now major leaguers Mitch Bratt (Newmarket, Ont.) and Liam Hicks (Toronto, Ont.).

Now, he’s knocking on the door to join them in the big leagues.

This season, Ireland finds himself as the only one of that draft class still with the team that drafted him, playing with their double-A Frisco RoughRiders, but he’s also made his first triple-A Round Rock Express appearances as well.

The left-handed pitcher has thrown to a 6.38 ERA this year, with a 4.93 ERA at triple-A through 34 2/3 innings as he works toward finding the consistency he admits he’s still dialing in.

“I’d say the biggest difference (between minor league levels) is the preparation of the hitters. You’ve got guys that are fighting for their job and others trying to get to the big leagues,” Ireland explained, “You make a mistake to those guys, you get hit pretty far. It kind of made me open my eyes as to how I have to better prepare for each game.”

To continue evolving his game, he worked with longtime friend and mentor Dustin Molleken (Regina, Sask.) in the offseason.

A former National Team member and Detroit Tiger, Molleken worked on making Ireland’s mechanics simple and repeatable during their training – an effort that Ireland says has helped his command and velocity make improvements.

Off the field, Ireland’s support system has been keeping him steady through the grind of the minor leagues.

“My parents obviously don’t get to travel with me as much, but my wife is with me full-time. Without the three of them, I don’t know how far my journey would last,” he said, “It makes it easy having someone you can disconnect from baseball with. I think that’s been crucial to finding myself as a person and player.”

The road ahead could be a long one for Ireland, who faces stiff left-handed competition on the Rangers depth chart.

Their active major league roster alone features five left-handers: Robby Ahlstrom, Tyler Alexander, Marco Gonzales, MacKenzie Gore, and Jacob Latz.

Regardless, pitching is always in demand, so Ireland could pave himself a path to the big leagues and join fellow Canadian Cal Quantrill (Port Hope, Ont.) down the line.

For now, the minor league grind continues, with the pride of representing Canada helping spur him on:

I asked Ireland, “Is it safe to say there’s a little extra pride in representing Canada on the pro scene?”

He replied without hesitation, “absolutely.”

July 29, 2026

By Conor Stemme

University of Michigan Athletics

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Pitcher Kurt Barr of the University of Michigan baseball team signed with the Minnesota Twins as an undrafted free agent on Wednesday following a record-breaking senior season.

Barr (Saint Joachim, Ont.) marks the third Wolverine signed as a UDFA in 2026, joining David Lally Jr. and Keegan O'Hearn (Oshawa, Ont.). Colby Turner (Minnesota) and Noah Miller (Houston Astros) were drafted in the 2026 MLB Draft.

Barr spent all four seasons at Michigan, earning All-Big Ten third-team honours twice (2024, 2026). The senior started 15 games in 2026, totaling a team-leading 79 2/3 innings pitched and was the only Wolverine pitcher to start every weekend. He struck out 105 batters in his final season, setting a program record for senior pitchers at Michigan. Barr finished the season with a 4.52 earned-run average and pitched a complete game against Michigan State on April 10, striking out 10 Spartans while allowing just two runs on four hits.

Barr appeared in 65 games across his four seasons, starting 46 games and compiling a 17-15 record. He threw 262 2/3 innings, with 256 strikeouts and 139 walks. He finished his career with a 4.15 ERA and held opponents to a .239 batting average. In addition to his All-Big Ten honours, Barr was an Academic All-Big Ten honoree three times and earned CSC Academic All-District honors in 2026.

July 30, 2026

By Abby Fralic

Okotoks Dawgs

Slugger Nash Crowell had two home runs and eight RBIs to lead the Okotoks Dawgs to a 12-1 win over the Sylvan Lake Gulls in front of 5,255 fans at Seaman Stadium on Thursday.

In total, Crowell (Yarmouth, N.S.) had three hits and scored three runs.

Jayden Lusk added a double and a home run, while Jordan Kievman reached base four times, going 2-for-3 with two doubles, three runs, two RBIs and two walks.

On the mound, Logan Rumberg (Saskatoon, Sask.) started and delivered a sharp six-inning outing, surrendering just one run on five hits while striking out eight. Will Labonté (Montreal, Que.) kept the momentum going with two scoreless innings in relief.

The Dawgs will now head to Sylvan Lake to take on the Gulls on Friday before returning to Seaman Stadium on Saturday to host the Energy City Cactus Rats at 7:05 p.m.

*This article was originally published on Alberta Dugout Stories on July 29. You can read it here.

July 31, 2026

By Joe McFarland

Alberta Dugout Stories

Things didn’t go the way the Team Alberta Bighorns 19U Women’s Team hoped on home turf in 2025.

Hosting the national championships at Webber Academy just outside Calgary, the team went winless on their way to finishing eighth out of eight teams.

Despite not tasting victory, the team thought of it as a learning experience for what was considered a young core, including three 16-year-olds and six 17-year-olds.

Among them was Airdrie’s Natalie Kerr, who went 1-for-6 in the tournament with six walks, four runs scored and a run batted in over the five games.

She’s among several returning players who believe the 2026 edition of the team will be much better with that experience behind them.

“I’m so excited to get to play with them and it’s just such an honour to be a part of this group,” Kerr told Alberta Dugout Stories: The Podcast.

“Getting to play with the girls every single year is just such an amazing opportunity, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-

Listen to Alberta Dugout Stories interview Natalie Kerr here.

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She says winning a national championship would mean everything to her, especially as she thinks about the challenges she’s overcome to represent her province.

AILING AIRDRONIAN

Growing up with an older brother and a twin brother, Kerr was immersed in sports, particularly baseball.

Even when other girls were making the switch to softball, she was determined to stick with it through Little League and eventually the new Airdrie Stars program with Baseball Alberta.

All the while, Kerr was battling an ailment that has given her arm troubles for a long time.

Born without the ulnar groove in her elbow, she started feeling pain when she was about 13, finally opting for surgery over the last couple of years.

“I had to re-learn how to move my arm, throw and grab things,” Kerr said. “On the mental side, I just had to kind of switch my mindset to make it about pushing through and not giving up.”

On top of that, shortly after surgery, she was hit by a car, which set back her recovery time.

PLAYING FOR HER PROVINCE

Kerr got her first taste of suiting up for Team Alberta as a 15-year-old at the 16U National Championships in 2023 in Summerside, P.E.I.

“I remember crying when I got the email saying I was on the roster,” she laughed. “It was just so cool to be a part of something so big like this.”

That team lost a heartbreaker 13-12 to Ontario in the semi-finals, coming back to claim bronze with an 8-3 win over Newfoundland and Labrador.

Kerr was back a year later at the tournament in Saskatoon, where Alberta finished with a silver medal.

2025 saw her make the move to the new 19U tournament, which replaced the 21U age division for the first time.

While the Bighorns didn’t perform up to their own standards on home turf, they are using it as fuel to be much better this time around.

“Everyone in our group just hits so well and everyone has such a big arm,” Kerr said. “It’s just such a great roster to have and everyone pulls their weight every single year. I don’t think there’s a weak spot in our lineup.”

DREAMING BIG

Having just graduated high school, Kerr also has her sights set on the future beyond the 19U event.

She has committed to the University of Lethbridge, where she will play fastball for the Pronghorns and continue playing baseball wherever she can.

The Foothills Fury Fastpitch product has also taken a liking to coaching and giving back to her community, which is what she’s doing with her education as she’s going into physiotherapy.

“Just helping people recover in the same way that I had,” she said.

Then, of course, there’s the ultimate goal: representing her country with the Women’s National Team.

Kerr knows playing in tournaments like the 19U Nationals could become a springboard for her and, having watched some of her teammates do it already, gives her hope that one day, she will get there too.

“That would be crazy to represent my country – it would be amazing,” she said. “Everyone wants to have that chance, and it would be such a big honour. It’s something I want to work towards, for sure.”

The Baseball Canada 19U Women’s National Championship is taking place from July 30 to August 2 in Saskatoon, Sask.

*This article originally appeared on Saskatchewan Dugout Stories on July 28. You can read it here.

July 30, 2026

By Joe McFarland

Saskatchewan Dugout Stories

Representing her home province is going to look a little different this time for Beth Sarauer.

The Clavet native will undoubtedly have a few familiar faces in the stands when she and her Team Saskatchewan teammates take to the field at the Baseball Canada 19U Women’s National Championships in Saskatoon.

Fresh off playing at the Women’s Open Nationals in Winnipeg earlier this month, the 16-year-old is a rising star for Baseball Sask, as she is also still eligible to play at the 16U Nationals in Moncton later this summer.

This tournament, though, will mean something much more.

“Having the 19U event in Saskatoon this year will be a lot of fun with lots of family out,” Sarauer told Saskatchewan Dugout Stories.

“I remember watching the 16U nationals when they were in Saskatoon a couple of years ago and it seemed really fun, so I’m excited for it.”

While she’s hoping to be an impact player on home turf, the utility player is also mindful of the influence she can have off it this coming weekend.

SASK’S RISING STAR

The fact that Sarauer is suiting up in the green and gold for three different teams should come as no surprise to anyone.

Born into a baseball family, she says she was always around it with her parents and loved it from the first moments she was registered to play herself.

“I think it was just the competitive side of it,” Sarauer said. “I just had a drive for baseball for as long as I can remember because it’s a team sport but it’s also an individual sport and I really like that about it.”

She started suiting up with the Saskatoon Royals and eventually caught the attention of the Baseball Sask brass, who invited her to play at the 2025 14U Westerns and the Canada Summer Games. She was also an affiliate player for the team that took home bronze at the 19U Nationals in Calgary.

Although younger than most of her teammates, Sarauer loved the opportunity to learn from those around her.

“I get to be around players that are so much older than me and have so much more experience,” she said. “I get to learn from them and it’s always a lot of fun.”

ENJOY THE MOMENT

While she wouldn’t call herself a “veteran” quite yet, Sarauer is hoping to bring some of what she has learned to the field.

That includes her first stint with Baseball Sask’s Women’s Team, which finished sixth at nationals earlier this month.

It taught her a little more about what to expect out of herself and the team going into the tournament in Saskatoon.

“I just want to play with confidence,” Sarauer said. “I think we have a lot of good arms this year, so we just need to get on the bats and play some good defence.”

The goal is always to bring home more hardware, but she adds she values the time spent with teammates and meeting new players from across the country.

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION

While she might not yet have perfected her signature on baseballs, it might be a regular request for Sarauer and her teammates as they host the national championship.

With so many young players, particularly girls, in attendance, she understands the gravity of what’s about to happen because she was in their shoes just a few years ago.

The pitcher and first base player is also looking forward to conversations with them to share some lessons from her own experiences, including the importance of resiliency and being a good teammate.

“I would honestly tell them to not lose themselves along the way,” Sarauer said. “I know a lot of people get caught up in the skills and competition part of the game, but you just have to take a step back and recognize that you’re here for fun and you’re here playing the game around people who love the game, too.”

It’s clear she loves the game for all the right reasons and hopes to have it all out on display during the tournament as well as the 16U Nationals.

“It’s crazy to me that I get to play for Team Sask,” Sarauer said. “It means a lot to me that I have the right people around me and the right opportunities like this.”

The Baseball Canada 19U Women’s National Championship is scheduled for July 30 to August 2 at Cairns Field and Leakos Field.

July 30, 2026

By Kevin Glew

Canadian Baseball Network

To say Evan Morrison has taken an unconventional road to a pro baseball career would be an understatement.

The 23-year-old, who grew up near Mitchell, Ont., zig-zagged his way through one Ontario university, two U.S. colleges and three different summer teams prior to being selected in the 10th round of the MLB draft by the Texas Rangers on July 12.

The 5-foot-11, 200-pound infielder has had to work for every break he has gotten in baseball. And he started his pro baseball career last week despite never being invited to the Canadian Futures Showcase or to a try out for the Junior National Team.

Instead, as a teenager, he flew under the radar of scouts while honing his skills in the Great Lake Canadians (GLC) program.

Chris Robinson, GLC's director of baseball operations, watched the young two-way player help his program's teams win games on the mound, at the plate and in the field for five years.

"The things Evan did well, at a very elite level for us, weren't necessarily showing up in box scores," said Robinson, when asked why Morrison had been overlooked by scouts during his teens. "He was just super consistent in everything he did. He ran well, but he never really ran at an elite level and he threw well but he never really threw at an elite level. There's just no real evaluator for 'Hey, this guy is just a great all-around baseball player.'"

Morrison, Robinson says, is an "old school type ballplayer, where it's performance over tools."

And it turns out that's not a bad reputation to have. In fact, it was largely that regard that convinced Texas Rangers scout Chris Collias to vouch for Morrison during the draft.

"It's rare today on the amateur side that guys can actually 'play' the game," said Collias. "Everybody is manufactured. Everybody learns to hit in the lab or they learn to pitch in a lab or in an indoor training facility. You never really drive by a park anymore and see anybody actually playing. You rarely see people quote unquote 'playing' the game. They 'work' the game. This guy, I think his biggest strength is that he's got high baseball character which means to me that he loves the game, he loves being at the yard. He loves to work."

That love for baseball was instilled in him by his father, James, who signed him up to play softball in Sebringville, Ont., in 2008 when he was five. He continued to play softball until he joined a baseball team in Mitchell when he was eight.

Morrison was a standout shortstop and pitcher in the Mitchell minor ball ranks and when he was 12, he was called up to play in an older age bracket.

The following year, he joined the Great Lake Canadians (GLC) as a two-way player and he'd spend five years in the organization.

"When I first got there [to GLC] I was 13 and I was not one of the better players on the team. I was super skinny and didn't have a ton of self-confidence," recalled Morrison. "But the coaches there are awesome. They helped me tremendously and I grew into my body a little bit."

Robinson was impressed early on with Morrison.

"As a pitcher, Evan wouldn't light up the radar gun, but he could pitch," recalled Robinson. "He was such an advanced player – the way he thought the game. So, he would be the guy who would play in the infield all weekend and then if we needed someone to jump in and close out the final game [on the mound] we'd bring him in."

Robinson also witnessed significant improvement in Morrison as a hitter.

"He was a contact guy. He ended up leading off his last two years with us. He was super at getting on-base. He didn't strike out a lot. He developed some juice as he got older. He would drive balls to the gap a little more," said Robinson. "He was a very impressive bat-to-ball guy."

Heading into Morrison’s pivotal Grade 11 season, COVID struck and his team wasn't allowed to go to the U.S. This restricted the number of college recruiters and pro scouts that could see him play.

"I didn't have any offers from American schools coming out of high school," said Morrison, who attended Stratford District Secondary School. "I wasn't looking JUCO because I did have very good grades and what I thought I wanted to do was go into Engineering."

So, with his passion for baseball still burning deep, he elected to go to the University of Waterloo where he was accepted into their Computer Engineering program.

Ben Norris, head coach of the Waterloo Warriors baseball team, says Morrison pitched and played second base in his first year. After that season, however, Morrison switched his educational focus.

"I quickly found out that I wasn't as passionate about Engineering as I thought," said Morrison. "And trying to do 60 hours of schoolwork on top of baseball was a lot more challenging than I thought it would be."

After playing for the Western Canadian Baseball League's Fort McMurray Giants in the summer of 2022, Morrison transferred to the Recreation and Sports Business program at Waterloo for his second year. This allowed him to spend more time on baseball.

"The biggest advantage of going to Waterloo was that I got to play right away and that helped me a lot self-confidence-wise," said Morrison. "We had great facilities there that helped me get better, and I just pushed myself."

Norris says Morrison hit second in the Warriors' lineup and they moved him to shortstop in his sophomore year.

"He was a very good contact hitter," recalled Norris. "And you could not find someone with a higher work ethic when it came to baseball. That guy loved being in the cage."

After Morrison completed his second year at Waterloo University, Dan Corbin, the GM of the Waterloo (Iowa) Bucks of the Northwoods League (a summer collegiate circuit), called Norris looking for pitchers for the second half of the season. Norris recommended Morrison and the young right-hander jumped at the opportunity to head south. He pitched well with the Bucks and made a good impression on his pitching coach, Mack Stephenson, who doubled as the pitching coach for McPherson College (NAIA) in McPherson, Kan.

Morrison returned to the University of Waterloo and batted .566 while topping the OUA with 30 hits in the fall of 2023 before transferring to McPherson College for the spring semester.

Morrison started as a pitcher at McPherson but evolved into a star second baseman who ended up leading the team with a .432 batting average.

Following that season, he returned to the Waterloo Bucks for the summer.

"And that's where things really started to take off," said Morrison.

While in summer ball, he was offered the opportunity to play for Grand Valley State University, a Div. II school in Allendale, Mich. He accepted and over the next two seasons he stopped pitching and developed into an All-American shortstop.

"I had never heard of Grand Valley until they gave me a call," said Morrison, "but facilities-wise, it's the best Division II school in the country. We got treated so well there as athletes. And Jordan Keur and Pete Romsek, the coaches there, were awesome . . . The culture they have built around the team is unbelievable. They just have such passion for the game that I learned so much from them in the two years I was there."

This spring, Morrison batted .410 with six home runs and 27 stolen bases in 58 games, while only striking out seven times. He also set Grand Valley State single-season records with 88 runs and six triples. For his efforts, he was named Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Year.

More importantly, some big league scouts were finally taking notice. Collias saw Morrison play twice - the second time was on May 9 against Davenport University in the conference tournament.

"That was the day when I said, 'OK, there's something to this guy,''' said Collias. "This is a guy you want on your team and you hate to play against. And he showed it all that day. He showed bat to ball where he could use the whole field. He showed power to the pull side. He hit a home run and that put me over the edge with him. He showed his speed. He showed good defensive ability and I was like 'OK, I'm writing this guy up.'"

Collias contacted Morrison the night before the second day of the draft. The Rangers had allocated almost all of their draft bonus pool money to their first three picks and were looking for cost-effective players on Day 2. Collias called Morrison to confirm that he wouldn't require a large bonus if they chose him and Morrison told him he just wanted a pro opportunity.

So, Morrison's draft call would come from the Rangers the next day in the middle of the Canadian Baseball League All-Star Game where he was representing the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers.

"In the bottom of the first inning, I'm sitting in the dugout and the phone starts ringing and I step out of the dugout and I take the call," said Morrison. "And then from there, it was a little bit of a blur. I told my parents [James and Christen, who were in the stands] to stay close by. And they saw me take the call and I went and gave them a hug. And I told them it was the Rangers. And then I went into the locker room to see the pick get announced on the screen."

And it’s been a whirlwind since that call.

On July 19, Morrison arrived at the Rangers’ development complex in Surprise, Ariz., and underwent a physical and officially signed with the club.

He is living in Rangers Village, a facility right across the street from the development complex and he now has more than a week's worth of practices under his belt.

At this point, he is uncertain what the Rangers' plan is for him for the rest of the season.

"I'm just trying to get better each day," said Morrison. "The path I've taken has definitely been unique. But being here for a week and competing with everyone, I can definitely compete here, which is pretty cool to see."

Collias believes Morrison can stick in pro baseball.

"Because A, he wants to be at the yard all the time. B, he's going to be consistent in mood and work ethic. C, he knows how to play and D, he can hit," said Collias. "He's that swiss army knife type of player, where you can play him all over. He's got that versatility and he can either hit at the top of the lineup or the bottom of the lineup."

Robinson also believes Morrison is capable of having a long career in pro baseball.

"I still believe in an analytical world that organizations and front office people are looking for people that help you win ballgames," said Robinson. "He does everything that the old school type player would do. Nothing will surprise me about him because he's such an easy kid to coach. He was a sponge. He understands the game so well. So, I think the ceiling is really high – maybe not based on having the best skillset or tools of anybody in the draft – but in terms of, this guy just knows the game in and out. And I believe there's still lots of room for players like that. And he'll probably play forever then get into a front office or a coaching position and spend his life in baseball."

Norris offers a similar assessment.

"I would never bet against Evan," he said. "Just looking at the way he has embraced every challenge, he's gotten better at every stop . . . If you told me that in three years, he was playing second base in a part-time role with Texas, I wouldn't be shocked at all. Then it wouldn't shock me if he worked his way into a starter's role."

July 29, 2026

Baseball Canada

Eight teams are set to meet in Saskatoon, Sask., for the 2026 19U Women’s National Championship which will run from July 31 to August 2.

An all-time list of Baseball Canada National Championship medalists can be found here.
WHAT:
2026 19U Women’s National Championship in Saskatoon, Sask..

WHEN:
The action starts on Thursday, July 30, with round-robin play running until Saturday, August 1. A quarterfinal matchup and a tiebreaker (if necessary) are set for Sunday afternoon, followed by semifinal, placement, bronze medal, and gold medal games, as well as the closing ceremonies on Sunday, August 2.

Check out the complete schedule here.

WHO:
The eight teams will battle for the title of 2026 19U National Champion: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario, Québec, and Saskatchewan. 

HOW TO FOLLOW:
Watch live streamed games on Hometeam Live

Live scoring of all tournament games via Game Changer

Follow @BaseballCANNats on Twitter

Follow Baseball Canada on Instagram and Facebook.

July 29, 2026

By Rhett Vasseur

Okotoks Dawgs

Game 1

On Wednesday, the Okotoks Dawgs won the first half of their doubleheader against the Lethbridge Bulls, 5-2 in front of 4,523 loyal Dawgs fans at Seaman Stadium.

The Dawgs’ bats were led by Jordan Kievman, who went 2-for-3 with a pair of RBIs.

Turner Zdunich (High River, Alta.) also went 2-for-3 with an RBI, while Connor Crowson (Okotoks, Alta.) and Bryant Starr also added two hits each.

On the mound, Lincoln Berg pitched two scoreless innings and Wyatt Sadleir (Calgary, Alta.) tossed a scoreless sixth.

Brody Burnette came in to close out the contest, striking out two in a scoreless inning.

Game 2

The Dawgs completed their doubleheader sweep by defeating the Bulls 8-5 in front of 5,366 fans at Seaman Stadium in their second game on Wednesday.

Nash Crowell (Yarmouth, N.S.) led the Dawgs’ offence, going 3-for-4 with a solo home run.

Cal Gates went 2-for-3 with a walk, while Lachlan Maude (Toronto, Ont.) also collected two hits.

On the mound, the Dawgs pitching was led by a stellar start from Evan Lehnert. He fanned six batters and allowed just one run in six innings.

Reid Madriaga later entered the game to record a four-out save. He struck out the side in the ninth.

With the win, the Dawgs improved to 34-12 on the year.

The Dawgs continue their homestand against the Sylvan Lake Gulls on Thursday. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m.