(Photo by Colton McKee, coltonmckeephotography.com)
Truman Bartman | themavericks.ca
Looking for a change in momentum, the Medicine Hat Mavericks are set to close out their weekday series against the Fort McMurray Giants after dropping game one 16-7.
Needing a major intervention, the Mavericks are making a big change well before tonight’s game even begins, with the reintroduction of their Gas City Baby Spreys alternate identity. A year ago, the Spreys’ alias first appeared on the scene, with the Mavericks debuting a new logo, jersey, and name in ’25. Both the new look and concept were a hit with fans, prompting the Mavericks organization to bring back the Spreys for 2026, this time in full baby-blue attire.
Beyond their new look, the Mavericks are hoping that a few of their new additions can make an early impact. Jackson Miller, who recently finished off his freshman season at Mid-America Christian University, joined the Mavs on the road recently, making his first WCBL appearance in Weyburn. Miller has a knack for throwing strikes, and in his limited work at college, Mavs coach Ryan Reed was impressed with his command. Carrying a slider and fastball mix, Miller has the chance to be an ideal fit in the Mavericks’ bullpen.
Cody Myers is another pitcher whom the Mavericks recently brought in, and he’s already seen limited action at Athletic Park. Unfortunately for Myers, his home debut lasted just two innings due to bad weather. Even with that small sample size, Myers brought a confident approach to the mound, which the Mavs desperately need.
Fort McMurray’s intake of players has been much smaller than the Mavericks’. However, their lone addition, Joey Hecker, stepped onto the pitcher’s mound during Thursday’s game. Hecker spent his freshman season with Washington State, helping the Cougars win the Mountain West Championship. Although it’s been a slow start to his WCBL tenure, Hecker’s championship prowess could go a long way in guiding the Giants to the postseason.
Missing in last night’s game but a familiar face within the Giants’ roster is catcher Nick Sauve, who has yet to reach the playoffs in his WCBL career. The 2025 West Division All-Star burst onto the scene in his first season with the Giants, becoming one of the league’s top catchers. Similar to his team in Hecker, Sauve has struggled to reach the level he was at a summer ago, holding just a .259 batting average through 8 games. The Giants hope that their franchise hitter can get his mojo back as the summer grows older.
It’s hometown hype night at Athletic Park as the Gas City Baby Spreys replace the Mavericks for a night, hoping to end their two-game losing streak versus the Fort McMurray Giants. If you’re looking to purchase Baby Spreys gear for yourself, jerseys go on sale at 5:45 PM when gates open.