(Photo by Colton McKee, coltonmckeephotography.com)
Truman Bartman | themavericks.ca
It was another devastating loss at home for the Medicine Hat Mavericks, who couldn’t find their way past the Saskatoon Berries on Tuesday night. Beginning as a low-scoring affair, the Berries’ bats came to life, scoring 4 runs in the 10th to secure a road victory.
Both Diego Quinonez of the Berries and Derek Archer of the Mavericks pitched deep into yesterday’s game, keeping it tight most of the way. Quinonez lasted until midway through the 5th for Saskatoon, recording 4 strikeouts and allowing just 2 earned runs during his start. Derek Archer’s line read very similarly to his starting counterpart’s, surrendering 2 earned runs while striking out 8.
With the Berries and Mavericks each using a handful of arms in last evening’s extended match, each team’s pitching depth will be tested thoroughly in Game 2.
Today’s game has a much different tone to it for both sides, with the Berries vying for separation at the top of the Eastern Division and the Mavericks hunting down a playoff spot after falling into 5th place after yesterday’s loss.
In a season loaded with dark times, the emergence of Frankie Giacalone for the Mavericks has been a bright spot. Fresh off an appearance at the NAIA championship tournament, Giacalone made an immediate impact upon joining the WCBL. Over his past two games, the San Diego, California native has left the yard 3 separate times, helping him power up the WCBL’s home run rankings. It’s no secret that the Mavs have struggled to hit the long ball in 2026. But now, thanks to Giacalone’s recent surge, that vacancy has finally been filled.
Similar to the Mavericks, Saskatoon has relied heavily on a small-ball approach in 2026. Ethan Murdoch and Gavin Panks have both remained among the best threats to reach base, with each holding an OBP above .490. Murdoch, especially, has been lethal over his last 9, registering a hit in every game since June 11th.
Two high-scoring offences battle once more at Athletic Park as the Mavericks and Berries close out their mid-week series from Medicine Hat on what looks to be another sunny night. Already having two wins in hand, Saskatoon will look to capitalize on the opportunity to sweep the Mavs in June with a win tonight.