WELLAND WINS 4-2 AND TAKES A 3-2 SERIES LEAD

WELLAND – The Welland Jackfish have now won three finals games in a row and are one win away from winning their first IBL championship in franchise history. It was another close game, a 4-2 final which saw Jackfish closer Deivy Mendez get the last seven outs.

Barrie scored first once again, grabbing the lead on a Royce Ando RBI double in the first inning. That was all they could get off of Welland starter Alberto Guerrero, who threw five innings, striking out five. The Jackfish took the lead when Tyler Dupuis smacked a base hit to right field, scoring both Sam Cawker and Matteo Porcellato.

Starlin Rodriguez tied the game back up as Hayden Jaco crossed home on his double in the seventh inning. The tie wouldn’t last long as Gianfranco Morello would hit a solo home run to right in the bottom half. Later in the inning, Steven Moretto would come in on a fielder's choice, making it 4-2.

Mendez picked up the win out of the bullpen, pitching the last two and a third innings. Juan Benítez was charged with the loss after working six and a third. Royce Ando, with another hit tonight, now has 18 hits in ten playoff games. Canice Ejoh also grabbed another base hit, his 13th in 12 postseason games.

NEXT UP: Due or die for the Baycats on Saturday for game six. The first pitch is at 7:05 p.m. at Vintage Throne Stadium. Get your tickets here.