THUNDER BAY, ON – June 30, 2025 – The Waterloo Bucks delivered a decisive blow to the Thunder Bay Border Cats on Monday, June 30, securing a 14-0 shutout victory at Port Arthur Stadium.
This commanding win not only ended the Bucks’ three-game losing streak but also propelled them to finish the first half of the season tied for the fifth-best record in the Northwoods League.
The Bucks’ offence ignited early, with Larry Edwards launching a solo home run over the left-field wall to start the second inning, securing the game’s first run.
From that point, Waterloo maintained relentless pressure, scoring at least one run in each of the subsequent six innings. Jake Bechtel was a standout at the plate, leading all batters with three runs driven in and notching three hits. Larry Edwards also contributed three hits and two RBIs, extending his impressive on-base streak to 19 games.
Luca Perriello added to the offensive showcase with his first home run of the year in the eighth inning, joining Marcus Heusohn as the only Waterloo players to plate multiple runs. Sam Finn picked up the only other RBI for the Bucks, reaching base a game-high four times. Every Waterloo batter got aboard at least once, with eight of the nine reaching base at least twice.
Waterloo’s pitching staff was exceptionally dominant, allowing only two hits throughout the entire game, a season-low for the team.
Brandon Rice earned his second win of the year, striking out two over three scoreless frames out of the bullpen, surrendering just one hit and three walks.
Starter Parker Sweeney also pitched three innings, allowing one hit and three walks while striking out three. Nakni Anna and Kole Bradley closed out the final three frames, notably surrendering no hits in the process.
For the Thunder Bay Border Cats, the game marked a disappointing conclusion to the first half of their season, as they came up “very flat” and struggled to find any offensive rhythm against the formidable Bucks pitching.
The Border Cats’ final record for the first half stands at 21-13.
A crowd of 2,175 fans was in attendance at Port Arthur Stadium for Monday night’s game, which included a post-game fireworks display.
The two teams are set to continue their four-game series on Tuesday, with the next game scheduled for a 1:35 p.m. start. The series is currently split, with both teams having secured two wins each.
The Border Cats are expected to send John McDonald (Creighton University) to the mound as their starting pitcher. Prior to the game,
The Sensational Hot Rods will be performing a pre-game concert at the ballpark, with free entry for all ticket holders.
