A Canada Day to remember for James Smibert and the FINatics

By Rod Mawhood

History was made at The Pond on Canada Day.

James Smibert delivered one of the most memorable performances in Welland Jackfish history, blasting a two-run home run and helping turn the franchise's first-ever triple play as the Jackfish defeated the visiting Toronto Maple Leafs 9-7 in front of a sold-out crowd of 3,298 FINatics.

The Mississauga native opened the scoring with a two-run blast in the third inning before making history in the fifth, when the Jackfish completed the first triple play in franchise history.

Ben Abram earned the victory on the mound, while Deivy Mendez slammed the door to record the save.

"It was a great crowd tonight," said Jackfish Manager Brian Essery. "It was nice to get a win in front of them and see the bats come alive.

"Smack (Smibert) had a great game. He was our Player of the Game, and that triple play—the first in Jackfish history—made it even more special."

Leadoff hitter Daiki Abe continued his outstanding season, collecting two hits, driving in two runs, scoring twice, and swiping three bases to spark the Jackfish offense.

The Jackfish hit the road Friday night to take on Hamilton before returning home Saturday evening to host the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers. First pitch is set for 6:05 p.m., and tickets are on sale now.