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Maple Volley Check-Ins

It is firmly pre-season in the pro volleyball world, so this will be more of a check-in on where they are now and a spot on a Maple Volley watchlist for the upcoming season. Both the Italian & Japanese leagues aren’t getting into regular-season action until October. With that little preamble out of the way, let’s get started…

1. Jackson Howe

   Middle Blocker

   dob. 06/16/1998, Height - 200 cm/6ft 7in, Weight - 95kg/210lbs

   Spike Touch - 375cm/12ft 4in

   College - Trinity Western University

   Current Club - Cucine Lube Civitanova (ITA)

   Recent Accolades - Best Blocker (VNL 2026 & German Bundesliga 2025/26 with SVG Lüneburg)

   From this summer’s Volleyball Nations League -

2. Kiera Van Ryk

   Opposite

   dob. 01/06/1999, Height - 188cm/6ft 2in, Weight - 85kg/187lbs

   Spike Touch - 316cm/10 ft 4in

   College - University of British Columbia

   Current Club - Savino Del Bene Scandicci (ITA)

   Recent Accolades - Best Scorer (VNL 2026), Best Spiker (VNL 2026), Best Server (Chinese League 2025/26 with Shanghai Bright Ubest)

   From the 2024/25 season while playing with VakıfBank in the Turkish 1st Division -

3. Fynn McCarthy

   Middle Blocker

   dob. 12/04/1999, Height - 200cm/6ft 7in, Weight - 101kg/222lbs

   Spike Touch - 362cm/11ft 11in

   College - University of British Columbia

   Current club - Osaka Bluteon (JPN)

   Recent Accolades - Best Middle Blocker (Czech Extraliga 2022/23 with VK Lvi Praha)

   Some highlights from the 2024/25 season while playing in the Polish 1st Division with BOGDANKA LUK Lublin -

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A public defender who has never lost a case starts questioning himself as he grows disillusioned with the legal system he’s devoted his life to. I saw this on the Life On Books YouTube channel, and then a description/review I saw before ordering said, “If you like The Wire…”. That was enough for this guy. I really enjoyed this one. If The Wire is in your wheelhouse, you may enjoy it too. Check it out!

Thank you for checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

How’s it going, eh? The 2026 MLB Draft has come and gone, and it’s time to review the Canadians who were selected. Beauty work you Hosers! Congratulations to each of the players whose names were called this year. Grab a bevy and a butter tart, and let’s meet the Canucks of the 2026 MLB Draft…

SELECTIONS

1. OF Carter Beck (Carnduff, SK), 1st round, 26th selection overall by the Atlanta Braves out of Indiana State. Here are some highlights of Carter with the Sycamores from this season —

2. INF Elliot Lascelles (Toronto, ON), 2nd round, 60th selection overall by the San Diego Padres out of Upper Canada College HS (ON), Junior National Team member

3. LHP Sean Duncan (Port Coquitlam, BC), 2nd round, 63rd selection by the New York Yankees out of Terry Fox SS (BC), Junior National Team member

4. C Deiten Lachance (Sherbrooke, QC), 6th round,184th selection overall by the Cleveland Guardians out of the University of Oklahoma

5. INF Robert Omidi (Mississauga, ON), 8th round, 246th selection overall by the Detroit Tigers out of St. Martin SS (ON), Junior National Team member

6. SS Evan Morrison (Wheatley, ON), 10th round, 297th selection overall by the Texas Rangers out of Grand Valley State University

7. RHP Cole Dorland (Langley, BC), 13th round, 382nd selection overall by the Atlanta Braves out of Walnut Grove SS (BC), Junior National Team member

8. RHP Damarcus Rideout-Carter (Brampton, ON), 14th round, 408th selection overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates out of Heart Lake SS (ON), Junior National Team member

9. RHP Ryan Marton (Toronto, ON), 17th round, 517th selection overall by the Chicago Cubs out of UNLV

10. INF-RHP Will Zielinski (Victoria, BC), 20th round, 606th selection overall by the Detroit Tigers out of Vauxhall Academy, Junior National Team member

Canadian Dual Citizens selected:

• INF Taj Marchand (Charleston, SC), 1st round, 33rd selection overall by the Tampa Bay Rays out of James Island Charter HS (SC)

• RHP Joey Volchko (Visalia, CA), 3rd round, 77th selection overall by the Chicago White Sox out of the University of Georgia

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In the spirit of the World Cup, here’s a football book! An enjoyable story about the author travelling across Italy for every single game of Hellas Verona’s 2000-01 season. If you’re looking for a match-by-match breakdown, this is probably not the one for you. If you’re looking for a tale of community, belonging, tradition, irrational fandom, and yes, football, this may scratch the itch. Check it out!

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. As always, until the next time…

KEEP IT 80 GRADE!

Omahosers

The College World Series is always great, and it’s time to determine our cheering interest heading into the 2026 tourney. SB&S support will be determined by the number of Canadians on the team. In case of a tie, the winner will be decided by the number of kilometers their home field is away from Ottawa. Closest to the pin wins. Let’s get into it!

West Virginia Mountaineers:

• INF Tyrus Hall (Victoria, British Columbia) - 60 GP, .278/.402/.439, 187 AB, 81 K, 33 BB, 7 HR

• RHP Ben Goodcare (Ancaster, Ontario) - DNP

Troy University Trojans:

• RHP Matteo Pare (Lasalle, Ontario) - 3 APP, 2.2 IP, 0-0, 4.13 WHIP (did not meet the minimum requirement of 1 IP/Team Game)

University of Oklahoma Sooners

• C Deiten Lachance (Sherbrooke, Quebec) - 59 GP, .332/.406/.609, 220 AB, 43 K, 28 BB, 15 HR

With a DNP, I am not counting Goodcare in the WVU total, and we won’t include Pare from Troy, as they did not pitch the minimum amount for the season. That gives us a tie between the Mountaineers and the Sooners! To the Maps we go!

West Virginia - Kendrick Family Ballpark at the Monongalia County Baseball Complex, 2040 Gyorko Dr, Granville, WV 26534, United States to Ottawa, Ontario, fastest route = 986 km

Oklahoma - Kimrey Family Stadium, 401 Imhoff Rd, Norman, OK 73072, United States to Ottawa, Ontario, fastest route = 2437 km

In a not particularly close tiebreaker, SBS Support for the 2026 College World Series goes to…

Let’s give a rah for West Virginia
And let us pledge to her anew,
Others may be black or crimson,
but for us it’s Gold and Blue.
Let all our troubles be forgotten,
Let college spirit rule,
We’ll join and give our loyal efforts
For the good of our old school.

It’s West Virginia, It’s West Virginia
The Pride of every Mountaineer.
Come on you old grads, join with us young lads,
It’s West Virginia now we cheer!
Now is the time, boys, to make a big noise
No matter what the people say,
For there is naught to fear; the gang’s all here,
So hail to West Virginia, Hail

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Let’s head to FanGraphs and check out the Projected Standings for Toronto, KC, and Cincinnati. My O/U picks in brackets --

• Blue Jays (u 88.5) - current record 33-36, current projection 81-81✔️

• Royals (o 81.5) - currently 28-40, projected to finish 74-88 ✖️

• Reds (o 81.5) - current record 32-35, projected end of season record 77-85 ✖️

Yowza KC, you’re killing me! That deeeeeep run I had for the Royals was done before it even got going!

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I mean, it’s Tyson, perhaps the most interesting athlete who has ever lived. This biography covers the mentorship and leadership of the legendary Cus D’Amato, as well as Mike’s very troubled early life and career. Thoroughly enjoyed this one and would definitely recommend it to boxing fans specifically and sports fans generally. Check it out!

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

How’s it going Eh? We have another Opening Day coming soon! This one for the Frontier League and my hometown Ottawa Titans. Some All-Time Titans return (Jackie Urbaez, AJ Wright, Jake Sanford, Taylor Wright) for 2026, and we’ll see how the rest of the roster settles in as they enter a few pre-season games before kicking off the season on May 8th. We also have the last year of the Frontier League as we know it, and a new local program to look at with our usual soundtrack and a book. Let’s grab a bevy, some butter tarts or Nanaimo bars (why choose, have both) and get into it…

News

Frontier League Set To Become The National Association Of Professional Baseball (NAPB) At The Beginning Of The 2027 Season

• The NAPB (currently the Frontier League) is an official Partner League of Major League Baseball. Founded in 1993, it is the oldest and largest independent professional baseball league in North America, featuring 18 teams across the Northeastern and Midwestern United States and Eastern Canada.

• Full set of new branding/marks for the NAPB will be released during the 2026 Home Run Derby, Tuesday, July 14th at Florence’s Thomas More Stadium.

Ottawa Titans Introduce Clubhouse Program

• Founding members: Ottawa-Nepean Canadians Baseball Club, Kanata Baseball Association, Orleans Little League, Glebe Little League, Rapides de l’Outaouais, and Castors d’Embrun

  “Since the very beginning of the Ottawa Titans, we've tried our best to connect with our community,” said Martin Boyce, General Manager of the Ottawa Titans. “The Clubhouse Program is an evolution of that. Baseball culture is flourishing in Ottawa-Gatineau, and we aim to be at the forefront of this growth. As the professional Club in our region, it is our duty and pleasure to invite all associations to grow with us. We are stronger together!”

2026 Spring Training Roster

• Exhibition games: May 3rd at Trois-Rivières Aigles, May 5th against the Welland Jackfish of the Canadian Baseball League (formerly Intercounty Baseball League), and May 6th against the Quebec Capitales

• Home & Season opener against the Capitales on May 8th is SOLD OUT!

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Twain gives us an amusing retelling of the Adam & Eve story as told through their diary entries.

Thank you for stopping by and checking in. Until the next time and as always…

KEEP IT 80 GRADE!!!

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Canadian Baseball HOF Class: 2026

DOB: Dec. 29/1962

Bat: Switch

Pos: CF

Draft: 1981 - by the California Angels, 6th Round, 132nd selection, from Park West HS (Manhattan, NY)

• was committed to Oklahoma State to play baseball and basketball, but ultimately signed with the Halos

MLB Debut: Sep. 2/1985 v Detroit Tigers, 15080th player in MLB history

Last Appearance: Oct. 5/2001 v Arizona

Teams Played For:

• California Angels (1985-90)

• Toronto Blue Jays (1991-95)

• Florida Marlins (1996-97)

• Arizona Diamondbacks (1998)

• Los Angeles Dodgers (1999-2000)

• Milwaukee Brewers (2001)

• Career Playoff Stats: 49 G, 211 PA, 189 AB, .296/.365/.450, 3 HR, 48 K, 19 BB, 7 SB

Awards & Accolades

• 3X World Series Champion (1992/1993/1997)

• 3X All-Star (1989/1993/1997)

• 7X Gold Glove Award (1988/1989/1991/1992/1993/1994/1995)

Our latest Inductee In An Instant is…

Devon White

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If you’re into tales of Spartans, then this one is a must. It’s a story of the Battle of Thermopylae as told by Xeones to his Persian captor’s scribe. Yes, this is the same battle as portrayed in the movie 300, but from a completely different perspective. Definitely enjoyed this one. Check it out!

Thank you for stopping by and checking in. Until the next time and as always…

KEEP IT 80 GRADE!

HOSERS AT THE WBC

Congratulations to the Maple Dirtbags as they got out of pool play to the knock-out round for the first time ever in their WBC history. After winning Pool A with a 3-1 record (wins over Colombia, PR, and Cuba), their reward was a quarterfinal match-up against the US. The Canadians tournament ended with a 5-3 loss to the eventual tournament finalist American team. An excellent tournament overall for the Canucks, and I would describe it as a bit of a breakout as well. They definitely showed not only their resilience but also their progress. They proved that they belong and can hang with some of the perennial international baseball powers. Here’s to this being a launch pad for the program with a promising future ahead.

A couple of Hoser standouts:

• A SB&S fixture, LF Owen Caissie - 5 G, 17 AB, .412/.476/.765, 3 2B, HR

• 3B Abraham Toro - 5 G, 19 AB, .421/.476/.842, 3 2B, 1 3B, HR

• P Cal Quantrill - 1 GS, 1-0, 5.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 5 K, 1 BB

MLB SEASON PREDICTIONS

Fandom Over/Unders Picks & World Series Odds*:

*These were the numbers when I made these selections on DraftKings at the end of Feb.

• Blue Jays - Under 88.5, +1400…currently still at 88.5 with WS to +1500

  • I think the Jays come back a bit from last year’s 94-win regular season. I kept feeling 88 wins, so under it is. Pretty mathematical and scientific, I know. It’s quite the sophisticated system we run here at SB&S HQ!

• Royals - Over 81.5, +4000…currently 82.5 and still +4000

  • This was an easy over for me as I am also throwing in a KC division win this season, along with a very deep playoff run…more on that coming up!

• Reds - Over 81.5, +4000…currently 80.5 & +5500

  • Thinking around .500 feels about right, and went with a game over for an 82-win prediction.

MVP:

• AL - Bobby Witt Jr, KCR

• NL - Shohei, LAD

CY YOUNG:

• AL - Tarik Skubal, DET

• NL - Paul Skenes, PIT

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR:

• AL - Carter Jensen, KCR

• NL - Nolan McLean, NYM

WORLD SERIES:

• Dodgers over Royals

  • Yes, the Royals to win the AL and get to the World Series! I don’t think they take down the big bad Dodgers, but this is my bold prediction for this year 😁

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Theodore Roosevelt loses the 1912 election and decides that his next challenge will be to explore the then uncharted Amazon River. An absolute beast of a challenge, and they were not properly prepared for it. This is how they survived with the expedition pushed to its limits in one of the most difficult environments on the planet.

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

KEEP IT 80 GRADE!

2023 WBC Returnees — Phillippe Aumont, Owen Caissie, Denzel Clarke, Indigo Diaz, Edouard Julien, Otto Lopez, Bo Naylor, Tyler O’Neill, Cal Quantrill, Jacob Robson, Noah Skirrow, Abraham Toro, Jared Young, and Rob Zastryzny

The Maple Dirtbags are in tough with 3 of the WBSC Top 10 in their pool and needing to finish in the top 2 of the 5-team group to move on in the tournament. Grab a snack and a bevy, and take a look at the Canadian roster and staff, the pool-play schedule, and the most recent world rankings…

PLAYERS:

COACHES & STAFF:

POOL A SCHEDULE:

• TEAMS - Canada (World Rank - 20), Colombia (13), Cuba (10), Panama (8), Puerto Rico (7)

• All games at Hiram Bithorn Stadium (San Juan, PR)

WORLD RANKINGS:

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If you haven’t read it, read it. If you have already read it, read it again.

Thank you for checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

Baseball Canada | Baseball Canada announces 2026 World Baseball Classic roster

World Baseball Classic | MLB.com

The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum announced this year’s class, welcoming six new members to the Hall who will be officially inducted in June. Congratulations go out to:

• Stubby “Captain Canada” Clapp

• Devon White

• Kate Psota

• Jim Baba (posthumously)

• Bill Stoneman

• Paul Runge

We’ll dive in and meet each of the newest HOF members throughout the spring and summer. Stay tuned! A tip of the cap to Stubby, Devo, Kate, Jim, Bill, and Paul!

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Thank You Buck!

Happy retirement to Blue Jays legend John Albert “Buck” Martinez. After 17 years behind the plate playing catcher for the Brewers, Royals, and Blue Jays and hopping into the booth in 1987, Buck has called time on the career.

After his playing career (1969-86), Buck began the path most of us know him for - broadcasting. The voice and the hair are spectacular and will always be remembered. Buck didn’t only broadcast for the Jays, he also worked in the booth for the Orioles from 2003-09, after a brief managerial stint with the Jays in 2001 & 2002 (100-115 record). He returned to the Jays’ broadcast booth in 2010 until his retirement, which was announced on February 6th. A 57-year career in the game is something special and should be applauded and celebrated. I believe it is safe to say that he was the Voice of Summer, if you’re a Blue Jays fan, who won’t be forgotten and will be missed.

Please go over to A tribute to Buck Martinez from some of his Sportsnet teammates for some great tributes from those who know him best.

The most famous Buck Martinez play/highlight, and in consideration for the most ridiculous double play you’ll ever see. Score that 9-2-broken leg-7-2:

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An autobiography recounting a lifelong obsession and devotion to surfing and how it interacts with all aspects of his life. From his childhood beginnings surfing to adulthood, I’d described Barbarian Days as a bit of a coming-of-age story that follows William as he grows, matures, and chases waves around the world.

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…Keep It 80 Grade!

How’s it going Eh? We’re heading into the year with an Inductee In An Instant from last year’s class. A name I don’t believe I missed highlighting earlier and need to make up for that now! Grab a bevy, a snack and without further ado let’s get into it!

HOF CLASS: 2025

CATEGORY: Coach and Executive

COLLEGE: Princeton University

• Played hockey as a freshman, then pitched for the baseball team.

• 3X Letter winner (1986,1987,1988)

• Won the Coach’s Baseball Trophy in 1986 (awarded annually to that sophomore member of the Princeton varsity baseball squad who, during the season, demonstrates the greatest aptitude and improvement)

• Assistant coach for 2 seasons (1991-1992)

TIME IN FRANCE:

• Manager - Montpellier Baseball Club (1993-1997)

• Pitching Coach - French National team (1994)

UNIVERSITY OF MAINE:

• Assistant Coach (1998)

BASEBALL CANADA:

• Senior National Team Pitching Coach (1992-1995)

• Junior National Team (U18) Head Coach (1999-Present)

  • 3 WBSC U18 Baseball World Cup medals (Silver 2012, Bronze 1997 & 2006)

• Part of the Senior National Team staff for the following:

  • 3X Pan Am Games medals (Gold 2011 & 2015, Silver 2019)

  • 2X Olympic Games (2004, 2008)

  • World Baseball Classic (2006, 2009, 2013, 2017, 2023)

• Current Director Of Men’s National Teams

It’s hard to think of Baseball Canada and not have our latest Inductee come to mind pretty fast. Our next Inductee In An Instant is…

Greg Hamilton

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A biography about one of the most mysterious artists to ever grab a mic should be a must read for anyone who is a hip-hop fan. Just remember ALL CAPS when you spell the man name.

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

Well, let’s not waste any more time. Grab a beverage and snack, relax and let’s get started with that major news mentioned a moment ago…

Couple Of Indy Ball Notes

• The title of the news release says it all: “A New Era for Independent Professional Baseball in Canada Begins.” The Intercounty Baseball League has become the Canadian Baseball League and has gone from semi-pro to professional status. A new era in pro ball in Canada, without a doubt. The IBL began in 1919 and currently has teams in Barrie, Brantford, Chatham-Kent, Guelph, Hamilton, Kitchener, London, Toronto, and Welland.

  • 2025 IBL Champions - Welland Jackfish (4-1 over the Barrie Baycats)

• The Frontier League’s Ottawa Titans continue to build their 2026 roster by exercising club options for the following players to return to the Nation’s Capital: RHP Jon Beymer, INF Kaiden Cardoso, INF Aaron Casillas, UTIL Mason Collins, RHP Kyle Demi, OF Dylan Driver, UTIL Justin Fogel, UTIL Michael Fuhrman, OF Damone Hale, LHP Kaleb Hill, RHP Brandon Marklund, LHP Bryan Peña, and LHP Shane Telfer.

• The Winnipeg Goldeyes are also building their team for the upcoming American Association season. Signings so far include: RHP James Bradwell, INF Ramón Bramasco, RHP Derrick Cherry, RHP James Colyer, INF/OF Mason Dobie, LHP Weston Lombard, RHP Noah Millikan, OF Max Murphy, RHP Willian Suárez, and
  LHP Quinn Waterhouse.

Other Random Note

• I’m really looking forward to the World Baseball Classic coming up in March. Still a few months away, but this is one of my favourite sporting events to watch, and I’m really looking forward to the tournament. Canada is in Pool A, which includes Cuba, Puerto Rico, Panama, and Colombia. The top 2 in the Pool move on. This group is being played in San Juan, PR, with the Maple Dirtbags kicking off their tournament on March 7th against Colombia.

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I managed to read quite a few books this year, at least quite a few for me, that I really enjoyed. It’s something I’ve missed, I dove right back into, and I’m incredibly glad I did! My To-Read List looks really good and keeps expanding, but I’ll do my best to read all the books I want, even though I probably never will 😄. Here are 7 books I read this year that were among my favourites and would easily recommend to take a look at —

Tunnel 29 by Helena Merriman

The Cost Of These Dreams by Wright Thompson

The Black Count by Tom Reiss

Power Broker by Robert Caro

Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe

The Tiger by John Vaillant

Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World by Jack Weatherford

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Holiday Soundtrack

Typically, there are three in the soundtrack, but in the spirit of the season, here’s one more! Yeeeaaaaahhhh!!!

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…Keep It 80 Grade and Happy Holidays!

Welcome back Eh you Hosers! We are definitely hopping in the wayback machine for this one. You know what that means? Get yourself a beverage and a snack, and let’s get straight into it!

CLASS: 1988

WHO:

WHEN: June 4th/1838

WHERE: Beachville, Ontario (about a 2-hour drive to the southwest of Toronto)

WHAT: The earliest recorded baseball game in history took place between Oxford and Zorra townships.

BUT IS IT THOUGH?

Well, that’s the controversy, if you’d like to call it that. That date is several years before the “first official baseball game”, which is said to have taken place in June of 1846 at Elysian Field in Hoboken, NJ, between the New York Nine and the New York Knickerbockers.

HOW DID WE GET HERE?

Professor Bob Barney (University of Western Ontario) researched the first recorded game after coming across a letter from Dr. Adam E. Ford in the Sporting Life (published May 5, 1886). Dr. Ford painted a picture of the game being played in Beachville, with five bases, fair and foul balls, and hitters using a hand-hewn stick and a ball made of yarn in calf skin. These were effectively “Canadian Rules” that evolved from rounders and cricket, with 11 a side, where all 11 players batted in each inning, which did not end until all were out.

WHICH LEADS US TO…

The Hoboken Game was played under “Knickerbocker Rules,” which align more closely with the baseball rules we are all familiar with today than Dr. Ford described the game north of the border. These were established in 1845 by Alexander Cartwright, where the game was 21 outs in length with three outs/inning. There was foul territory outside the 1st and 3rd baselines, along with the ball being “pitched” rather than thrown.

SO WHICH IS IT?

I think I’ll describe it this way - the earliest recorded variation of baseball appears to be our game in Beachville, while the first recording of the game we now recognize as baseball took place in Hoboken…if that makes any sense 🤣. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter too much and highlights the game’s long, extensive, and winding history on both sides of the border.

The links to sources are below at the end of the post if you’d like to dive in further.

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A couple of experienced wreck divers discover a U-boat off the coast of New Jersey and become obsessed with identifying it and uncovering its story. The journey is just as much about the human dynamics of those involved as it is about a U-boat that shouldn’t be there in the first place.

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

The Beachville Game – Society for American Baseball Research

Baseball — Beachville District Museum

Early Recorded Baseball Game - Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

Baseball in Canada - Wikipedia

BLUE JAYS

• What a World Series!!! While the result was not what I had been cheering and hoping for, I was thoroughly entertained throughout the entire postseason. One of the best WS in my memory banks, that is certain. I truly enjoyed watching and am grateful to have been a witness to it! If you had told me in spring training that the Jays would be hosting WS Game 7, I’d have asked you what drugs you had taken and if I could have some! I’m sure there will be some regression next year, as I’m not sure 94 wins are in the cards again for 2026. However, I’m not at the under 76.5 wins predictions/bets made for 2025 either 🤣. Let’s say 87-89 wins? (…checking DraftKings…currently have the Jays at +2000 for a World Series victory with the Dodgers leading the early odds at +370…). I’m looking forward to seeing how the off-season plays out and am curious about how the Jays’ front office tackles this offseason. Haven’t had this kind of optimism in a long time, and it’s kinda nice.

  • other Smurf Fandom Teams WS title odds as of this writing…Royals +4000, Reds +3500. The longest WS odds are saved for the Rockies, White Sox and Nationals at +50000

• Speaking of the off-season, MLB.com currently ranks the Jays at #6, with notable free agents including Bo Bichette, Max Scherzer, and Chris Bassitt.

• Bichette’s free agency will be interesting. He received a qualifying offer ($22.025 million) that will be declined if it hasn’t already been (nothing official as of this writing). According to Spotrac, they are projecting a 7-year/$175 million deal for Bo, with the possibility of reaching $200 million.

OTTAWA TITANS

• Original Titan from their inaugural season in 2022, Jackie Urbaez extends his stay in the nation’s capital after signing an extension for the upcoming 2026 Frontier League season.

  • 2025 stats: 93 G, 334 AB, .254/.422/.401, 74 K, 58 BB

• In other contract extension news, Hoser Jake Sanford (Dartmouth, Nova Scotia) is coming back to patrol the outfield in 2026 for the Titans.

  • 2025 stats: 61 G, 237 AB, .257/.325/.359, 48 K, 25 BB

• The Frontier League has announced its 2026 schedule. The Titans will start the 2026 season at home in the 6 1 3 with a tough opening series as the four-time defending champions, the Quebec Capitales, come to town starting Friday, May 6th.

  • The Florence Y’alls will host the 2026 All-Star Game from Monday, July 13th, through Wednesday, July 15th

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In the spirit of the recent heist at the Louvre, I recently finished a book about the most prolific art thief in history, which I thoroughly enjoyed and think you may enjoy as well.

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

Good day eh! Happy World Series Game 1 Day! Not going to be too long here, just a couple of songs to vibe with as we get ready for 1st pitch. Go Jays Go!

Thank you for checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

Good day, Eh! It’s time for our next visit to St. Mary’s and the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame. I’ve added something new—a Smurfy Book Read to this post, which may or may not become a regular thing, especially since I’ve been reading much more lately. Usually, the more I read, the more ideas for writing and actual writing happen. Not so much, at least as of this particular post. The whiteboard is still painfully empty, but the Inductees never fail! I always enjoy going through them, picking out one to take a peek at, and sharing. So let’s keep it moving and check out our latest Inductee In An Instant…

Born: Jan. 8/1981, Vancouver, BC

Draft: 2002 - 1st Round, 9th overall selection by the Rockies from the University of British Columbia (signed for $1,850,000)

MLB Debut: Aug. 25/2004 (18,549th player in major league history) v Atlanta Braves, 5.0 IP, 6 H, 8 SO, 1 BB, 6 ER

Last Appearance: Oct. 4/2015 v TB Rays, 1.0 IP, 1 H, 0 SO, 0 BB, 0 ER

Other Notable Top 10 Selections from 2002:

• 1.1 - RHP Bryan Bullington by the Pirates from Ball State

• 1.2 - SS BJ Upton by the Rays from Greenbrier Christian Academy (VA)

• 1.4 - fellow Hoser🍁 LHP Adam Loewen by the Orioles from Fraser Valley Christian HS (Surrey, BC)

• 1.6 - RHP Zack Greinke by the Royals from Apopka HS (FL)

• 1.7 - 1B Prince Fielder by the Brewers from Eau Gallie HS (FL)

Baseball America Scouting Report:

…He had his coming out party last year when he spun 12 shutouts: six in NAIA competition and six more as a member of the Anchorage Bucs of the summer Alaska League. He did so well with the Bucs--he was the league’s pitcher and player of the year, and top prospect--that the rival Anchorage Glacier Pilots picked him up for the National Baseball Congress World Series, where he earned MVP honors for working 14 scoreless innings...Francis is a polished lefty with solid stuff and a projectable body. The 6-foot-5, 200-pounder throws from a three-quarters arm slot with a clean, easy stroke and a solid, balanced delivery. He has good command of an 87-93 mph fastball with late movement and an average slurvy breaking pitch…He projects to go in the middle of the first round after going 7-1, 1.60 with 87 strikeouts in 68 innings this spring.1

Teams Played For:

• Colorado Rockies (2004-08, 2010, 2012-13)

• KC Royals (2011)

• Cincinnati Reds (2014)

• Oakland A’s (2014)

• NY Yankees (2014)

• Toronto Blue Jays (2015)

Our latest Inductee was inducted into the UBC Sports Hall of Fame in 2008, with the British Columbia Sports Hall of Fame inducting the big lefty in 2020. Today’s Inductee In An Instant is …

JEFF FRANCIS

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Smurfy Book Read

Short answer…a lot. Greatness comes at a great cost, and Wright Thompson dove into it with this one. If you’re looking for something to read as the weather turns a bit cooler/colder with a nice bevy and snack, you’re going to be doing well with this book.

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

KEEP IT 80 GRADE!!!

We're returning to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, with back-to-back Class of 2019 Inductees making an appearance at SB&S. Let’s grab a poutine and a bevy, relax and get into it…

Born: May 3, 1977 (Sechelt, BC)

Sechelt is approximately 50 KM (that’s about 31 miles for my non-metric friends) NW of Vancouver.

Drafted: 1995, 3rd Round, 66th Overall Selection by the Texas Rangers out of Elphinstone HS (Gibsons, BC)

Notable picks in the Top 10 of the 1995 MLB Draft, 30 years ago….30!?!?

• 1.1 - Darin Erstad - OF, University of Nebraska, by the Angels

• 1.4 - Kerry Wood - RHP, Grand Prairie HS (TX), by the Cubs

• 1.8 - Todd Helton - 1B, University of Tennessee, by the Rockies

MLB Debut: May 23, 1998 v Pittsburgh (17250th player in MLB history) - 1.0 IP, 2 H, 1 SO, 1 BB, 3 ER

Last Appearance: September 29, 2013 v Baltimore - 0.2 IP, 1 H, 0 SO, 0 BB, 0 ER

Teams Played For:

• Florida Marlins (1998-2002)

• Cincinnati Red (2002-03)

• Chicago Cubs (2004-12)

• Texas Rangers (2012)

• Boston Red Sox (2013)

Our RHP is a 2-time All-Star (2000, 2008) and was part of the World Series Champion Boston Red Sox in 2013. Currently a MLB Network personality with a beauty Harry Caray impersonation, our latest Inductee In An Instant is…

RYAN DEMPSTER

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Smurfy Soundtrack

In the spirit of the 1995 draft…here are some bangers released in 95 in my soundtrack 😄

Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

So I took my dry-erase board that had a series of scribbles, ideas, and arrows, among other things that I can only politely call gibberish and erased it all. Yup. Wiped the slate clean. Feels somewhat freeing, but then a well….now what are you going to write about? As I get the idea hopper going again, I had an urge for an Inductee In An Instant. That, along with the Elite EHght, has been around since the beginning, so it’s a reasonable place to “restart,” if you want to call it that. So grab a bevy, maybe a back bacon sammich or two, a butter tart or maybe a Nanaimo bar for dessert, and let’s head to the Canadian Baseball Hall Of Fame Class of 2019…

Our latest inductee was born in Trail, BC, on September 20, 1978, and before moving to Coeur d’Alene to begin his collegiate career at North Idaho College, he represented Trail at the Little League World Series (1990). After a season in Idaho, they moved on to Washington state, specifically Spokane, and played for the Gonzaga Bulldogs from 1997 through 2000. They were then drafted in the 22nd Round, 645th overall, of the 2000 MLB Draft by the Montreal Expos. The outfielder stood in the right-handed batter’s box at 6 ft 2 and 210 pounds, and was once on the Baseball America Top 100 prospect list, #74 in 2004…

… doesn't have an overpowering tool but does most everything well. He hits for power and average while showing solid plate discipline. He is also a good runner and a high-percentage base stealer. He has enough athleticism for center field and has enough arm for right…hope he fulfills comparisons to Jeff Conine1

Before that, our inductee was traded twice within four months in 2002. The Expos traded them to the Mets, and then they moved him to the Padres, for whom he made his MLB debut (May 23/2003, vs. Arizona, 18270th player in MLB history, 4 AB, 1 H, 1 HR, 1 RBI). First MLB hit is a dinger? What a beauty!

By August of that year, there was another trade. This was their second team, and the one I remember them best with, out of the five teams they played for during their 10-year MLB career.

Teams Played For: Padres (2003), Pirates (2003-2008), Red Sox (2008-09), Mets (2010-12), Mariners (2013)

AWARDS/ACCOLADES

• NL Rookie Of The Year 2004

• Silver Slugger (2009)

• 3x All-Star (2005, 2006, 2009)

• Tip O'Neill Award winner (2004, 2005, 2009)

Without any further ado, our latest Inductee In An Instant is…

Jason Bay

How did the Conine comparison work out from BA in 2004?

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Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!

ELITE EH!GHT

**grades from Baseball America

1. Owen Caissie, OF, Cubs

   MLB Debut - 8/14/2025, 23561st player in major league history

   2025 YTD: Triple A - 93 G, 346 AB, .289/.384/.489, 22 HR, 114 K, 53 BB

   Hit 45, Power 60, Run 55, Field 55, Arm 55

2. Jonah Tong, RHP, Mets

   2025 YTD: 22 G, 22 GS, 10-5, 113.2 IP, 179 K, 47 BB, 0.92 WHIP

   Fastball 65, Curveball 55, Slider 45, Changeup 45, Control 45

3. Mitch Bratt, LHP, D-Backs

   2025 YTD: 21 G, 20 GS, 6-3, 105 IP, 127 K, 19 BB,1.21 WHIP

   Fastball 55, Curveball 40, Slider 40, Changeup 40, Cutter 50, Control 55

4. Tyler Black, 1B/OF, Brewers

   2025 YTD: Triple A - 41 G, 149 AB, .195/.316/.282, 51 K, 26 BB

   Hit 55, Power 45, Run 60, Field 40, Arm 40

5. Emilien Pitre, 2B, Rays

   2025 YTD: 108 G, 410 AB, .266/.349/.393, 100 K, 52 BB

   Hit 55, Power 30, Run 55, Field 50, Arm 55

6. David McCabe, 1B, Braves

   2025 YTD: 111 G, 393 AB, .285/.377/.435, 93 K, 60 BB, 11 HR

   Hit 40, Power 45, Run 30, Field 40, Arm 50

7. Charles Davalan, OF, Dodgers

   2025 YTD: 4 G, 19 AB, .579/.619/.842, 3 K, 2 BB

   Hit 55, Power 45, Run 55, Field 50, Arm 45

8. Tim Piasentin, 3B, Jays

   Hit 45, Power 55, Run 40, Field 45, Arm 60

Notes/Comments:

Congratulations to Owen Caissie on making his MLB Debut earlier in August. I believe Owen is going to be a power-hitting right fielder for a long time. He strikes out a lot (28% in Triple A, 25% in the bigs with limited ABs), but he continues to get on base at excellent rates.

I don’t think there’s a bigger helium name on the hoser prospect front than Jonah Tong. The fastball carries this profile and arsenal. It’s a beauty, and combined with an excellent curveball, it’s quite the 1-2 punch. How those play in the upper levels against more advanced hitters will help determine Jonah’s ceiling going forward. An improved third offering would help on that front.

Hoser on the move with Mitch Bratt heading Diamondbacks from the Rangers (Arizona Diamondbacks traded RHP Merrill Kelly to Texas Rangers for LHP Kohl Drake, LHP Mitch Bratt and RHP David Hagama). You’re not going to be overwhelmed by his stuff, but he can pitch. He relies on excellent control, and as that goes, he will go.

A tough year for Tyler Black, spending time on the IL and struggling at the dish when healthy. If you’ve been around SB&S for a while, you’ll know that Tyler is a long-time favourite since the Brewers drafted him out of Wright State. I firmly believe there’s an everyday big leaguer in this profile. The story remains the same for Black, some extra pop in the bat and/or some improvement with the glove would help the profile tick up some.

Emilien Pitre continues to get on base, and I love players who find a way to be on base as much as possible. You can see Pitre being a top-of-the-order hitter who can get on base consistently, steal some bases while out there, and play solid defence at the keystone.

Welcome back, David McCabe, after missing most of 2024 due to injury and putting together a very good 2025 so far. He’s still displaying excellent on-base rates, but needs to put together a healthy year and continue working on the hit tool, as that will determine his long-term success. His bat has to carry the profile, especially since his defensive work needs some improvement and his speed is decidedly below average.

Chucky D? My man don’t swear he’s nice, he knows he nice (bit of a deep cut for the PE fans out there). As you can tell by NCAA coverage this season, I am a fan of Charles Davalan and his overall game. Leadoff hitter with high contact rates, good speed and on-base rates while being solid defensively? Sign me up.

Miami Hurricane commit and Toronto Blue Jay selection (signed for $747,500), Tim Piasentin rounds out the E8. Tim was the top Canadian HS prospect in the most recent MLB draft. The 18-year-old third baseman already stands in the left-handed batter’s box at a mature 6-foot-3 and 205 pounds with excellent power and arm at the hot corner. There’s plenty to be excited about, but he can’t legally purchase an alcoholic bevy in Ontario as of this writing, so some patience will be required as he turns pro.

Miami recruit Tim Piasentin at MLB Draft Combine … 105.7 mph EV

Canadian high schooler's LOUD BP at the 2025 MLB Draft Combine

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S.O.T.U.

So what’s going on and what’s changing? Let’s break it down —

I’ve broken things into “In-Season” and “Off-Season”:

• In-Season - This is not only the baseball season, but also a cycling season from a personal perspective. Due to geography and my fair-weather cycling habits, it generally will follow the May 2-4 long weekend to Canadian Thanksgiving (mid-October) timeline. During this period, there won’t be as much writing/posting, but I will include the following as part of in-season “coverage”: pre/early-season and end/late-season E8’s, along with pre- and post-draft Hosers. Along with those, I’ll include Three Things that I used to do on occasion, to be included whenever I feel the urge. Posting some Notes on the Stack whenever as well. Pretty casual on the schedule, but I’ll be around 😁.

• Off-Season - This is when most of the writing/posting will occur, with an emphasis on looking back more than at the present. Picture having Inductee In An Instant, Historical Canadian Content, along with other Canuck influenced stories and whatnot, falling into the off-season.

Why this switch? The main factors are viewing habits and spending more time on a bike. I haven’t watched as much affiliated ball this year compared to previous years, and don’t think the upcoming work stoppage hasn’t had a bit of influence on that. Cycling has had a greater influence, but upcoming labour issues have also had some impact. I know it’s still a bit away, but the end of the CBA is rapidly approaching, and let’s be honest, no sport loves a work stoppage more than the MLB. It feels inevitable to me. That said, I have really enjoyed what I’ve seen this season, being pleasantly surprised by the Blue Jays, watching the Royals with Bobby Witt, and taking in the Reds with Elly, and I will continue to enjoy watching MLB until the CBA is up. Then all bets are off, haha…ugh. I’ve been able to watch some MILB as well, but again, not to the same extent as in previous seasons. Shout out to the Omaha Storm Chasers and Vancouver Canadians, the teams I’ve seen the most so far. Yes, I find it funny that during the baseball season, I’m not watching baseball or writing as much. Perhaps a move to a more geographically advantageous area, where I can bike year-round, would be beneficial on that front. I’m looking at you, North or South Carolina!…maybe…kinda…talk to me😂. Read books, ride bikes, watch baseball…sounds pretty damn good to me! Moving it along…there is plenty of in-season coverage on Substack and elsewhere that will do a more consistent job than I… at least while I’m in Cycling Smurf mode. If that changes, we all know I love invoking the Card Is Subject To Change provision and will adjust as needed or desired. Nothing definitive, of course, but the picture is clearing up.

Perhaps most importantly, I want to take a minute to thank you folks who stop by and check in. Somehow, some way, the SB&S universe now has over 100 subscribers! I had no idea where I was until I received the notification that the three-figure barrier had been broken. I mean, I question all of your sanity, but I am happy that you’re here! A tip of the cap to all of you!

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Thank you for checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

KEEP IT 80 GRADE!

How’s it going Eh?

A comment in my previous post about having HOF Induction day as an off day for the league sparked some discussion, and I thought we should put it to the people to see if there’s any appetite for something different for Induction weekend. Grab a back bacon sammy with a side poutine and let’s go through four rather high-level options -

1. No change, remains as is.

2. Have it as part of All-Star Game weekend. Futures game Saturday afternoon, Induction Ceremony Saturday night. But what about the celebrity softball game? Let’s just not. I’ve never watched one and have no intention of ever doing so, selfishly, this really works for me 🤣. Induction at ASG or Cooperstown? I’d strongly prefer to keep it in Cooperstown, but I would find it hard, if not impossible, not to have an event at the ASG on Saturday night. This likely means the Induction ceremony will be held in the same location as the ASG.

3. HOF Weekend. My likely selection, as I believe it would require the fewest changes. Basically, it’ll be the same weekend as usual, with the Saturday featuring a slate of afternoon games (lots of 105pm first pitches), and a HOF Game on Saturday night. A prime-time game where profiles can be shown between innings to remind everyone of the newest members and of their careers, along with additional pub for the speeches/ceremony on Sunday. Sunday would be an off day for the league, and the schedule can get back on track Monday/Tuesday. The ceremony remains in Cooperstown, and it’s not significantly altering the schedule.

4. A special event during the off-season. This would certainly eliminate the outdoor ceremony in Cooperstown, which I believe should remain as much as possible. Pitchers and catchers report in mid-February, and the World Series goes through October, so there’s not much off-season to work with. Never mind the NFL, NBA, and NHL are in full swing during those times as well. However, I believe it could work in the off-season with some creativity. Maybe some post-season awards show and HOF celebration could be put together. Celebrating current and historical excellence? You might be able to sell me on that 😄.

What do you say?

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And while we’re at it, my personal belief is that if you’re a HOF voter in any sport, your votes should be public as a condition of being an eligible voter. What says the Universe?

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Thank you for stopping by and checking in today. Until the next time and as always…

Keep It 80 Grade!!!

Welp, it’s been a while, and I’m definitely behind on our next Elite Eight and draft profiles. Had another one in the works for a couple of original Ottawa Titans that has fallen to the wayside. Been a little scattered mentally lately, well…..more than usual anyways haha, and that usually wears me down as I’m a 60 grade (flash 70 on occasion🤣) overthinker and frankly I get fatigued. Usually, once I can get the sketch of the picture in my head — whatever it may be that I’m sorting through — I’m good and can focus and add further detail as needed. These pictures are blurry and not getting clearer…yet. I’ve also been riding my bicycle frequently trying stack some KMs, and as a Smurf of a certain vintage, my recovery isn’t as it used to be. I have certainly used my *Card Subject To Change provision regularly over the past month or so, but not all is lost by any means, that’s far too dramatic. A few adjustments will be made as things become clearer. E8 will be closer to the end of the season, along with the OG Titans, and we’ll try to sprinkle some draft profiles throughout the remainder of summer until then.

For today at least, I’ll leave you with a Smurfy Soundtrack, as usual, with a few Substacks I’ve been checking in with frequently that y’all may like as well, and finish off with a few quick, smurf-sized if you will, notes.

Let’s get a snack, a bevy, relax and get into it…

Smurfy Soundtrack

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Smurfing around the Stack

One to see what just happened. One to take a look a bit further back and one to look around & within. Not too bad if you’re asking this Smurf!

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Quick Notes

• The Toronto Blue Jays are leading the entire MLB in wins with a 0.594 winning percentage as of this writing. My negativity towards the Jays and their front office is well known in the SB&S Universe, but golly, am I glad I’m wrong! I didn’t see it coming when I was looking ahead to the season, but the adjustments they’ve made and the areas they’re focusing on have been working! My under 76.5 wins futures bet is now done and dusted🤣

• After a difficult start to the season, the Ottawa Titans are back to .500 with a 33-33 record. Currently, they are in third place in the North Division of the Atlantic Conference behind the outstanding Quebec Capitales, who are playing near .700 ball for the season and boast a 46-20 record.

• The Goldeyes are having a bit of a tough go up to this point. Currently, Winnipeg is sitting 5th in the West Division, 17 games behind the division-leading Sioux City Explorers with a 27-40 record.

• Congratulations go to Dick Allen, Dave Parker, Ichiro, CC Sabathia, and Billy Wagner on their official induction to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Why induction day is NOT an off day, giving 100% attention to the HOF and the newest inductees, is beyond me, but what do I know?

Thank you for checking in today. Until the next time, and as always…

KEEP IT 80 GRADE!

Tale Of The CDN Draft Tape

• 20 Total Rounds

• 615 Total Selections

• 14 Canadian players selected (2.28% of selections)

• First CDN player selected - Charles Davalan (University of Arkansas), 41st overall by the LA Dodgers

• Last CDN player selected - Shane Brinham (Hadsworth SS), 615th overall by the LA Dodgers

• College/HS: 9/5

• Hitter/Pitcher: 6/8

• Teams adding the most Canadian Content to their org: 4 teams tied with adding 2 Canucks each to their organization - Dodgers, Guardians, Reds, and Rockies

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2025 CDN🍁Draft Picks

CHARLES DAVALAN (OF, University of Arkansas), Rd. 1 CB-A, 41st Overall by the Dodgers

WILL HYNES (RHP, Lorne Park SS), Rd. 2 CB-B, 70th Overall by the Guardians

TIM PIASENTIN (3B, Foothills Composite HS), Rd. 5, 143rd Overall by the Blue Jays

RILEY NELSON (1B, Vanderbilt University), Rd. 5, 162nd Overall by the Guardians

CORE JACKSON (SS, University of Utah), Rd. 5, 164th Overall by the Yankees

ANTOINE JEAN (LHP, University of Houston), Rd. 7, 197th Overall by the Rockies

TY DOUCETTE (1B, Rutgers University), Rd. 10, 294th Overall by the Reds

CARSON LATIMER (RHP, Sacramento State), Rd. 12, 354th Overall by the Reds

TYSON MORAN (SS, Great Lakes Canadians), Rd. 13, 398th Overall by the Royals

CONNOR HAMILTON (RHP, Montgomery Bell Academy), Rd. 14, 413th Overall by the Pirates

TYRELL CHADWICK (RHP, Illinois State), Rd. 18, 527th Overall by the Rockies

HAYDEN CUTHBERSON (LHP, Miami University, OH), Rd. 18, 528th Overall by the Marlins

RYAN HEPPNER (RHP, University of British Columbia), Rd. 19, 577th Overall by the Braves

Shane Brinham (LHP, Handsworth SS), Rd. 20, 615th Overall by the Dodgers

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Thank you for checking in today and taking a look at this year’s Canadian Draft Content. Be on the lookout for some Smurf-sized profiles of the selections coming up as the summer continues on and into the fall/off-season. Also be on the lookout for the SB&S Mid-Season Elite EHght coming soon!

Until the next time and as always …

Keep It 80 Grade!