Jackfish use Small Ball to Halt Losing Skid

WELLAND - The Welland Jackfish were able to snap their four-game losing streak on Father’s Day at the Pond at Welland Stadium by defeating the Guelph Royals 3-2.  

The Royals got on the board in the top of the first with a sac-fly of the batt of Riley Perks that scored Kyle Kush.  Matt Clingersmith started on the mound for the Jackfish and threw 8 complete innings, allowed two earned runs, walked three Royals and struck out five. Clingersmith was getting no help from the Jackfish offensively until the eighth inning where the story of this game comes alive. 

Royals starting pitcher Yunior Yambatis suffered the loss even after throwing seven shutout innings.  The Jackfish were able to use the extremely tough field and playing conditions to their advantage in the eighth where the game was decided after the three runs came across the plate.  Nolan Pettipiece who finished the ball game batting one for three, laid down a perfectly placed bunt which started a fury of bunts from the Jackfish.  Next batter Wilson Soriano and then pinch hitter, Caleb Feuerstake each followed suit with well executed bunts to load the bases.  

A wild pitch and then a walk tied the ball game with DeAndre Asbury Heath at the dish with only one out.  Asbury Heath then grounded into a fielders choice where the Royals were unable to execute the double play allowing the game winning run to cross the plate.  

This game however almost did not happen as field conditions were poor leading up the ball game.  After tremendous work from our staff of volunteers, and city staff, the first pitch was pushed back two hours where the first pitch flew at 3:05pm. 

The Jackfish return home Saturday, June 22nd as they take on the Kitchener Panthers. Saturday is First Responders Day, first 250 children through the gates will receive a free firefighter helmet. First pitch set for 1:05 p.m. For tickets call 905-736-1346 or online at wellandjackfish.com