Prince Albert, Sask. – The Quick Story:
Team Canada clawed their way back from a four-run deficit in the final two innings to add six runs to the board and defeat Venezuela 11-9 in a dramatic Opening Round matchup at the 2025 WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup. After trading big innings throughout the game, it was Canada’s late inning resilience that secured their first win of the tournament.
Key Moment:
Down 9-8 in the top of the seventh, and Canada’s last chance at bat, Bradley Ezekiel would tie things up immediately with a leadoff homerun, keeping Canada in the game. Quinten Bruce and Nick White would keep the momentum going with back-to-back walks before Blake Hunter stepped up and delivered a two-run double, pushing Canada ahead 11-9.
Venezuela threatened in the bottom of the seventh, but Ty Sebastian slammed the door with a game-ending double play to seal the win.
Notes:
- Bradely Ezekiel had a dominant performance at the plate going 3-for-4 with 2 home runs.
- Blake Hunter had a huge night at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a home run, a double, 4 RBIs, and 1 run scored.
- Colin Walsh went 2-for-2 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored
In the Circle
- Devon McCullough got the start, pitching 2.0 innings, allowing 4 runs on 4 hits and striking out 2.
- Sean Cleary came in at relief, pitching 2.1 innings, allowing 4 runs on 4 hits and striking out 5.
- Justin Schofield would pitch 0.2 innings allowing 1 run on 2 hits and striking out 2.
- Ty Sebastian would close the game, pitching the final 2.0 innings, keeping Venezuela scoreless and striking out 4.
Box Score: Canada 11 vs. Venezuela 9
Team Canada takes the field again tomorrow (July 10) against Argentina at 8:30 pm CST / 10:30 pm EDT.
Stay up to date on scores, highlights, and schedule updates by following Softball Canada on social media and visiting softball.ca.
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For more information, please contact:
Cassidy Burton
Manager – Marketing & Communications
Softball Canada
m: 613-523-5761
w: www.softball.ca | e: cburton@softball.ca