Jackfish double up on Majors for ninth straight win

By ROD MAWHOOD

The Welland Jackfish recorded their ninth straight victory doubling up on the London Majors 12-6.

Steven Moretto had a stellar night defensively and at the plate. 

Moretto made a number of terrific scoop plays to end London threats, and went 3-for-5 including a homerun off the scoreboard, and four RBI as the Jackfish improved to (23-6) on the season. 

"Moretto looks really comfortable at the plate. He's really coming on at the right time," said Welland Manager Brian Essery.

Adding to the win offensively was James Smybert and Carlos Martinez who both chipped with a pair of RBI.

Smibert, in fact, had four hits and is now hitting .413 on the campaign.

Jackfish starter Adam Jafine deserved a better fate as only two of the Majors six runs were earned. 

Once Welland settled down defensively, relievers Ben Abram - making his Jackfish debut - and Scott Gillespie shut the door on London hitters. 

Abram struck out five in four innings of work, while Gillespie closed out the game in the ninth. 

"Abram was lights out," Essery said. "That is a fantastic addition to our pitching staff."

Welland would break a 6-6 tie in the seventh inning with one run, then score five in the eighth to send the 2,244 fans in the stands home happy. 

"We executed offensively late in the game which is something we have to do to prepare for the playoffs.," added Essery. 

The Jackfish now visit Guelph on Tuesday and London on Friday, before hosting the Toronto Maple Leafs next Saturday night for Tropical Night and a post-game fireworks extravaganza. 

Get your tickets now at wellandjackfish.com