(Photo by Colton McKee, coltonmckeephotography.com)
BY TRUMAN BARTMAN. THEMAVERICKS.CA
It’s about to be a busy stretch at home for the Medicine Hat Mavericks as they play host to the Saskatoon Berries in the first game of a four-game home stand. These two divisional titans have already played twice this season, with the Berries taking both games.
The biggest difference this time around is that the Mavericks have home-field advantage. Athletic Park has been a nightmare for opposing teams to play at, and so far, no visiting team has left with a win.
The Berries, well, they pack a different punch. Owners of 8 straight wins and the best record in the WCBL, it’s clear that they’re the favourites to claim the Harry Hallis Memorial Trophy come August.
A mix of trusted returners, experienced coaches, and WCBL all-star acquisitions has helped the Berries get off to such a perfect start.
Former all-star Ethan Murdoch, who played for the Swift Current 57s in 2024, has been at the forefront of Saskatoon’s success. He once again has flashed his power at the plate, leading the league in home runs.
Trailing right behind him is Mavericks’ 1st baseman and second-year player Evan Morrison. After a brilliant outing in Swift Current, where he mashed two home runs, Morrison looks to find the same sort of consistency that Murdoch has had throughout his career.
If Morrison does have an off night in the power department, it shouldn’t be the end of the world. The Mavs are a tricky team to play against, largely due to their elite small-ball approach. Medicine Hat’s core has bought into this style of play, and it has served them well thus far.
Western Canada’s top two collegiate baseball teams will engage in Medicine Hat for the first time since the 2024 WCBL playoffs. There aren’t many regular-season games that will be as big as this one, as the Saskatoon Berries make their first appearance of the summer.