Week 3 begins with a full slate of game action Saturday, here is a look at the match-ups…
Laurier (5-3) vs Windsor (6-4)
Saturday games are all that is on the schedule for the Lancers this weekend, hosting Laurier at Mic Mac Park. The teams are basically tied for second place in the western division right now, but Laurier has two games in hand, and one less loss in the loss column. These two games should be quite competitive, as both teams have a combination of good offense, and solid pitching to support them in this series.
This is the first of four matches between the clubs this season, as the teams meet closing weekend in Waterloo. The teams chasing the Hawks and Lancers will hope for a sweep from one of the two clubs here, as it then helps those chasing have a better shot at catching one of the teams.
McMaster (2-6) vs Brock (2-8)
Do or Die series for the two teams participating down in St Catherine’s Saturday. Brock has lost its last 8 games, however truly has been in almost every one of those and is bound to see their luck change eventually. McMaster earned their second win of the season in Waterloo against Laurier Sunday, so they will be expecting good things Saturday vs Brock. These two teams can’t afford to lose any additional ground on the Guelph Gryphons who hold the 4th spot in the western division at present. These two games will be exciting, so if you are in the St Catherine’s/Niagara area you should definitely check them out at Lancaster Park.
Western (8-0) vs Guelph (3-5)
The Mustangs remain one of two undefeated teams in the OUS after week 2. Western now travels Saturday to play Guelph, who will be eager to get back into the win column following a tough week 2. These games are set to be played on the Guelph Campus at 2 and 4pm. Western has been firing in all aspects of the game through two weekends, so they will be a tough opponent for the Gryphons.
This past week in games hosted by Western, the two teams played two good games with the Mustangs winning 7-6 and 8-4. Those results show the competitiveness of the Gryphons, and they will be supported by their local fans at home Saturday.
Waterloo (1-7) vs TMU (3-5)
The Warriors and Bold hook up for the first time this season… each team did the Queen’s/Ottawa road swing last weekend, with the Warriors coming home empty, while the Bold managed to go 2-2. Waterloo is in a must win situation if they want to stay in the post-season hunt. Meanwhile the Bold can get to the .500 mark with a sweep at home in Hendon Park Saturday. These teams can both play at a high level, and this will be a good chance for each to shine Saturday.
Toronto (6-0) vs Queen’s (6-2)
Queen’s backed by some great pitching so far this season has run up a record of 6-2 with their only two losses coming against TMU. Queen’s can take over first place in the eastern division with a series win over the visiting Varsity Blues Saturday. Toronto is 6-0 and has a busy next few weeks, which includes a number of series in the OUS, but also continued preparation for the National Championship. These two games will be very good, and all are encouraged to check them out in Napanee Saturday.
York (2-4) vs Ottawa (4-4)
Ottawa was 3-1 at home last week, and now remains at home this weekend as well welcoming in the Lions Saturday, and then Toronto Sunday. These games are not at the Gee Gee’s usual home park, so make sure to check social media for the game location.
York sits in the middle of the pack after two weeks, but is aware of possible challenges from TMU, and Waterloo, in the standings so these will be an important two games to start their weekend. Ottawa can really help their playoff push with a strong showing this weekend, as they look to create some distance between themselves and some of the others in the East.