Giants comeback falls short against Prospects

The Fort McMurray Giants opened their season on Friday night with a strong performance, collecting 14 hits and defeating the Prospects by 10 runs. On Saturday evening, the Prospects snuck by the Giants 6-5.

The Prospects jumped on the Giants early scoring twice in the top of the first. Giants returnee, Joe Finder punched back by hitting a solo home run to cut the lead in half in the bottom of the second. A few short innings later, Finder was back at it, driving home newcomer Junho Son who had tripled to start the fourth inning to tie the game, 2-2.

Edmonton returned the serve in the fifth with a two run inning of their own including a home run. Fort McMurray would again counter in the bottom of the fifth after a Darcy Barry double, Corey Morro stepped up with a two strike, two out single to score him to bring the Giants within one at the midway point.

In a game with tons of back and forth, it only makes sense that the Prospects immediately responded in the sixth with two more runs of their own. Edmonton took advantage of a walk and error to answer the bell as well as extend their lead.

Newcomer, Jason Maldonado entered the game in the seventh and dominated for the Giants leading to the chance to form a ninth inning comeback. Maldonado threw 2 2/3 innings, striking out four Prospects along the way. 

David Benitez and Darcy Barry started the ninth with a walk each, setting the table for the late rally. Jaden Wiley stayed hot at the plate with a single to load the bases after a pitching change. Opening Day Player of the Game, Manny Alberto stepped up and delivered a big hit to score two on a two RBI triple to get the Giants within one. But, that's where the comeback finished as the Prospect found a way to end the rally and win the game.

The Giants and Prospects will face off one more time Sunday, May 26th, first pitch is scheduled for 2:05pm and will mark the first Junior Giants Game Day of the season!

For tickets, CLICK HERE.