(Photo by Colton McKee, coltonmckeephotography.com)
BY TRUMAN BARTMAN. THEMAVERICKS.CA
On the heels of a blowout loss at the hands of the Moose Jaw Miller Express, the Mavericks prepare for another home game. The Swift Current 57s are in town for one game, looking to snap their two-game losing streak.
In 2025, the Mavericks have cruised past the 57s in all 4 of their meetings. It’s been a disappointing season for Swift Current, spending a majority of the summer in last place. Things haven’t improved over their last stretch of games, with just 2 wins over their last 10 duals. Ruddy Estrella’s crew have slowly fallen further behind the rest of the East division, leaving their playoff hopes in a tailspin.
If there is any good news for the 57s, it’s that 2025 All-Stars Wilmer Henriquez and Luis Ayala have each put together dynamic years.
Henriquez has been a wrecking ball in the batter’s box, smashing 8 home runs in 25 games. He sits second in the WCBL in home runs and only trails the Mavs’ Evan Morrison by one.
Ayala’s power numbers aren’t as pretty as Henriquez’s, but his overall play has been just as impressive. His batting average has jumped up almost .200 points from last season, as well as his run total taking a significant leap. Among catchers in the WCBL, Luis Ayala remains near the top of his field on both sides of the ball.
In the spirit of mentioning two-way stars, Johnny Vulcano has been exactly that for the Mavericks over his 3-year career. Vulcano was named a WCBL Gold Glover in 2023 and has always been a dangerous hitter. His clutch gene and forceful swing have worked hand in hand, creating nightmares for opposing pitchers. The 57s will have to be cautious when throwing to Vulcano, especially after he recorded 3 hits a day ago.
Poised for a better result tonight, the Mavericks look to win their 5th game in a row over the Swift Current 57s. This one begins at 7:05 pm from Athletic Park, with friendly weather forecasted at first pitch.