NINTH INNING COMEBACK LEADS TO 12-10 WIN IN TORONTO

by Sam Aucoin

TORONTO – “We’re ready for it,” a quote from Manager Josh Matlow that was used in today’s preview and a quote that perfectly describes the top of the ninth inning of tonight’s game. A huge comeback win for the Barrie Baycats beating the Toronto Maple Leafs 12-10.

Whether it was the go-ahead hit from catcher Josh Cote, Chris Cox pitching three and a third innings out of the bullpen, or a six-run ninth inning, it was certainly an entertaining game to watch. Barrie has now scored 17 runs in the eighth inning or later this season at Dominico Field. 

With the way this game ended, It seemed like forever ago that starter Juan Benítez allowed six earned runs over four and two-thirds. A no decision that Benítez would take any day of the week based on how it started. For Juan, it has been the slow start to games that have caused him problems. 

Barrie entered the ninth inning down 8-6. That was when eight straight Baycats reached. Hayden Jaco brought in the first run to make it 8-7. Then, the big hit from Cote gave Barrie the lead and they never looked back scoring three more times. Those extra runs would prove to be necessary as the Leafs would score a pair in the bottom half. 

It was the right-hander Chris Cox who earned the win, his first of 2023. Brad Grieveson closed things out and Julian Valdez was charged with the loss (6). With the win, the Cats improve to 22-10 and have won four in a row. The Leafs are now 16-15, ending their three-game winning streak tonight. 

NEXT UP: The Barrie Baycats are back home tomorrow when they welcome the Brantford Red Sox. This will be Brantford’s final trip up Highway 400 this season. You can catch the first pitch at 7:35 pm from Vintage Throne Stadium. Get your tickets here