Prince Albert, Sask. - The Quick Story:
Team Canada came up short in its Opening Round matchup at the 2025 WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup, falling 8–3 to a strong New Zealand squad. Despite some timely hits, the Canadians couldn't generate enough momentum at the plate, ultimately unable to string together enough offense to close the gap.
Key Moment:
Trailing 5-1 in the bottom of the fifth, Canada looked to shift the momentum when Bradley Ezekiel ripped a double to left field, scoring Blake Hunter and Bryan Abrey to cut the deficit to 5-3. However, New Zealand responded in the sixth with a fielder’s choice and a two-run home run, extending the lead to 8-3, putting the game out of reach.
Notes:
- Quinten Bruce hit a leadoff home run in the second. He would end the night 2-for-3.
- Bradely Ezekiel went 2-for-4 with a double and 2 RBIs.
- Mathieu Roy added a triple and finished 2-for-4.
- Blake Hunter score one of Canada’s runs, ending the night 1-for-2 with a double.
- Bryan Abrey contributed with a run scored and went 1-for-3.
In the Circle
- Sean Cleary took the start in the circle, pitching 2.0 innings, allowing 4 runs off 5 hits and striking out 3.
- Devon McCullough pitched 3.0 innings in relief, giving up 2 runs on 4 hits with 1 strikeout.
- Justin Schofield threw 1.0 inning, allowing 2 runs on 1 hit and striking out 2.
- Ty Sebastian closed the game with a scoreless final frame, striking out two batters.
Box Score: New Zealand 8 vs. Canada 3
Team Canada takes the field today (July 9) against Venezuela at 5:30 pm CST / 7:30 pm EDT.
Elsewhere in Opening Round action, Venezuela stunned No. 1-ranked Argentina, the Dominican Republic edged past No. 3-ranked Japan, and the USA delivered a 10–0 win over No. 2-ranked Australia, setting the stage for an unpredictable and exciting tournament, and proving that it’s anyone’s game.
Stay up to date on scores, highlights, and schedule updates by following Softball Canada on social media and visiting softball.ca.
