Member Association News: CAN Gears up for WUC Baseball
July 15th, 2008
The Canadian World University Baseball team defeated the Okotoks Baseball Club (Alberta), 6-5, in their first exhibition game as they gear up for the 4th World University Baseball Championships, July 17 to 27, in the Czech Republic. "It was an excellent ball game as they are one of the top collegiate teams and we were able to compete in our first game together as a unit" said Head Coach Terry McKaig. Team Canada played in Okotoks' new stadium in front of a crowd of 1,505. Team Canada used five different pitchers in the exhibition victory. "We threw 5 different arms as this week is our only chance to evaluate the players and what roles we want them to play in the championships next week in the Czech Republic," said McKaig. Thain Simon (Santa Clara U-El Dorado Hills, CA) threw two scoreless innings followed by Mat Wilson (Bucknell-Toronto, ON) who threw 2 innings and gave up 2 runs, Sheldon McDonald (Northeastern U-Spuce Grove, AB) also threw 2 innings and gave up 1 run while striking out 4, he was followed by Kris Dabrowiecki (Northeastern U-Toronto, ON) the right handed pitcher threw 2 scoreless innings hitting 92 mph on the radar gun and closer Hiarali Garcia (U of Kansas-Windsor, ON) got the save with a very impressive 9th as he struck out the side. The bats were also alive as Canada pushed six runs across the plate led by Right Fielder Jon Symyk (UBC-Langley, BC) as he went 2 for 4 with a stolen base. Team Canada's designated hitter, Ryan Pilgrim (UBC-Pitt Meadows, BC) was 2-4 with an RBI and catcher Jeff Vickers (Lamar U-Nanaimo,BC) 1-3 with a 2-run homerun and short stop Sammie Starr (UBC-Toronto, ON) was 1-3 docking in the one run. Team Canada continues its preparation for the upcoming World University Games with more exhibition games before traveling to the Czech Republic.
