Jackfish ground Cardinals

Welland continues to impress offensively

By Rod Mawhood

The Welland Jackfish hit double-digits once again in a 12-4 victory over the Hamilton Cardinals. 

In what turned out to be an interesting night for Jake Harford, the Welland (supposed) starter arrived at The Pond late after being stuck at the United States/Canada border and pitched six innings of zero earned run, six strikeout, baseball to pick up the victory.

Mike Wagner actually moved in from his usual middle-infield spot to get the start on the mound for the Jackfish and pitch the first inning. 

Catcher Sam Cawker, honoured before the game as IBL Player of the Month for June, Matteo Porcellato and Hogan Brown all homered for Welland who pounded out 16 hits in the win. 

"The three home runs are nice, not something you see from our team on a regular basis," Jackfish Manager Brian Essery said after the game. 

Porcellato had three hits and four RBI, while Ethan Hunt also had three base knocks for the home side. 

Essery was able to use a number of pinch hitters in the game. "It was nice to get some guys some reps off the bench," explained Essery. 

A crowd of 1,289 witnessed the Jackfish improve to (17-6) on the season. 

Welland visits London on Sunday night in a battle for first place, and returns home next Thursday night for CAA Pack The Park Night. First pitch flies at 7:30 pm.