IBL playoffs: Jackfish one win from IBL title

The Welland Jackfish defeated the Barrie Baycats 4-2 on Thursday night and they are now one win from clinching the Intercounty Baseball League title. Photo: Welland Jackfish

September 14, 2023

Official Intercounty Baseball League News Release

WELLAND, Ont. – More late game magic has Welland one win from an IBL championship.

The Jackfish, after scoring twice in the ninth inning to win Game 4 Wednesday, broke a 2-2 tie in Game 5 Thursday with a pair of runs in the top of the seventh, which was the difference in a 4-2 victory over Barrie.

Welland leads the best-of-seven Dominico Cup final 3-2. Game 6 is Saturday in Barrie.

Gianfranco Morello had the big blow, a one-out solo home run in the seventh to give Welland the lead. Steven Moretto scored on a fielder’s choice three batters later. James Smibert and Sam Cawker each had a pair of hits in the win.

Deivy Mendez earned the win in relief, allowing a run on two hits over three innings. He walked one and fanned four. Alberto Guerrero started and gave up a run on two hits in five innings. He walked two and struck out five.

Royce Ando had an RBI double for the Baycats, who have lost three straight. Hayden Jaco scored on a fielder’s choice in the seventh, which briefly pulled Barrie even. Starlin Rodriguez singled and doubled.

Juan Benitez took the loss, giving up three runs (two earned) on eight hits in 6 1/3 innings. He struck out three and walked one.