Who are these guys with a gold and a bronze? Updated
*A 24-pack of happy Canucks, with gold (Pan Am Games) and bronze (World Cup) inside of a month. Humm baby!
Mike Johnson went last so he could say thanks first
Who are these guys who won bronze in 2009
By Bob Elliott
Who are these guys? We have the answer ...
The Canadian minor leaguers -- not on 40-man rosters -- who had Canada’s best-ever month on the international stage.
Canada went 4-1 in Mexico in the Pan Am for gold, 8-3 to win bronze at the 39th World Cup in Panama ... a 12-4 won-loss record (USA was 10-6) two medals ... one gold, one bronze ... one wonderful month.
What’s the make up of average Canadian minor leaguer on the team?
Of the 11 pitchers -- 10 were drafted, North Vancouver’s Scott Richmond was signed as a free agent -- the average guy was drafted in the 17th round (like Sarnia’s Nick Bucci), pitched in 135 games in the minors (as Richmond did) and has had five seasons in the minors (Chris Kissock of Fruitvale, B.C.)
Of the 14 position players -- 13 were drafted, second baseman Skyler Stromsmoe of Bow Island, Alta. signed as a free agent -- the average guy was selected in the 16th (like Michael Crouse of Port Moody, B.C. who the Jays drafted), played on average of six seasons and 469 games (like London’s Brock Kjeldgaard, who has played six years and 489 games.
We have the thumb nails on each and we asked each to answer in their own words about their highlights, memories, life on the podium, their favorite player, who was happiest at home when they won so far away and what this month means for baseball in Canada.
Andrew Albers -- LHP
Hometown North Battleford, Sask.
Age: 25
Height 6’ 1. Weight 195
Bats R Throws: L
MLB organization Minnesota Twins
2011 Teams: Double-A New Britain Rock Cats (4-1, 2.91), single-A Fort Myers (4-1, 1.55 four saves).
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience: 2003 Canadian National Junior Team.
School: University of Kentucky
Drafted: 2004-Milwaukee, 12th, 2008-San Diego Padres, 10th round, signed by the Twins as a free agent by Tim O’Neill and Earl Win.
Where he’s been: 2008 -- Rookie-Class Arizona League Padres (1-0, 0.00); 2010 Quebec City, Can-Am IND (3-0, 1.40 17 saves).
Minor league totals (three seasons) 12-2, 1.80 21 saves, 80 games, 136 hits, 32 earned runs, 33 walks, 146 strikeouts in 160 1/3 innings.
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “Having the opportunity to start the Gold medal game and us beating the USA in the championship game, for Canada’s first senior men’s gold!”
2. “Starting against Puerto Rico in the first game of the World Cup, my first taste of international competition.”
3. “Playing against Panama and Mexico, in the respective tournaments with the atmosphere that the crowds brought to the game.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. “Singing “Oh Canada” on the bus before every game.”
2. “The camaraderie between the players and coaches and coming together to play for our country.”
3. “Standing on the podium watching them raise the flags, as our national anthem played inside the stadium.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “My family in general. My mom, dad and sisters were all rooting for me and the support I received from them as well as from everyone back home was simply amazing.”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was .... “Larry Walker, he was probably the most prominent baseball figure in Canada at the time and was an inspiration for all of us knowing that it was possible to make the bigs even being from Canada.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “I believe Dustin Molleken, We talked how sweet of a win this was for the country, how nice it was to beat the USA in this kind of a game, and how far we had come as a couple kids from Saskatchewan being able to play in this game. We talked about how awesome of an experience we had being with such a great group of guys and then to cap it all off with the gold medal victory was amazing. We also just took some time to take the whole scene in, the stadium, with the fans being on the top of the podium thinking about how it was the first time the Canadian Senior men’s team had ever done this. It was a great feeling!”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball ... “Hopefully it has a big impact in Canada in the future. It shows that we as a nation can compete with anyone in the world at a very high level. We also had a pretty diverse group of guys from around the country so it shows that you can be from any part of Canada, and still succeed in the game. In addition, it shows the young kids around the country that there are possibilities for them in baseball and that it can open many doors for them in their future.”
Cole Armstrong -- C
Hometown Surrey, BC
Age 28
Height 6’ 3” Weight 210
Bats L Throws R
MLB Organization Los Angeles Angels
2011 Team Triple-A Salt Lake (.284 average, nine homers, 30 RBIs).
MLB Experience None
Team Canada Experience ‘99, ‘00, ‘01 Canadian National Junior Team, 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
School and Team: Chipola College, University of Kansas, Fraser Valley Chiefs and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: 32nd round in 2001 by the New York Mets, 16th Round in 2003, Atlanta Braves, signed buy scout Al Goetz.
Where has he been: 2003 -- Rookie-class Gulf Coast Braves (.118, 0, 0); 2004 -- Single-A Danville (.316, 6, 46); 2005 -- Single-A Rome (.228, 7, 32); 2006 -- Class-A Winston-Salem (.237, 2 14); Double-A Birmingham (.120, 0, 0); 2007 -- Winston-Salem (.288, 12, 39), Birmingham (.239, 1, 12); 2008 -- Birmingham (.252, 6, 31); Triple-A Charlotte (.275, 2, 17); 2009 -- Triple-A Charlotte (.252, 10, 52 RBIs), 2010 -- Double-A Birmingham (.276, eight, 43).
Minor League Totals (nine seasons): 648 games 135 doubles, 1 triple, 63 homers, 306 RBIs, .261 average.
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “Andrew Albers and Scott Richmond’s performance in the gold medal game.”
2. “Skyler Stromsmoe’s incredible play at second base the last two games in the Pan Ams.”
3. “Jimmy VanOstrand’s double to put us ahead in the gold medal game.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget ...
1. “Andrew Albers response when Ernie Whitt asked him if he had one more hitter in him in the gold medal game.”
2. “Shawn Bowman’s brutal mustache.”
3. “Molly.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “Toss up between my wife CeCe and my parents Mel and Nicky. They’ve all been so supportive of me and I know they were living and dying with every pitch of the last game.”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was ... “Larry Walker.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about ... “Shawn Bowman on whether it was in poor taste to have a dip on the podium and how brutal VO’s shoes looked.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “I hope a lot. We played strictly for our country and I hope it shows young players at home that we can compete with the best in the world.”
Chris Bisson -- INF, OF
Hometown Orleans, Ont.
Age: 22
Height 5’ 11” Weight 185 lbs.
Bats L Throws: R
MLB organization San Diego Padres
2011 Team: Fort Wayne TinCaps-A (.261, two, 43).
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience: 2010 Canadian National Junior Team
School: University of Kentucky, Ottawa-Nepean Canadians, coached by Don Campbell.
Drafted: 4th round 2010 San Diego Padres.
Where he’s been: 2010 Rookie-Class Arizona League Padres .056, zero, zero); class-A Eugene (.250, zero, four RBIs).
Minor league totals (two seasons): 151 games, 14 doubles, five triples, two homers, 47 average, .252). .
Shawn Bowman -- 3B
Hometown Port Moody, BC
Age 26
Height 6’ 3” Weight 220
Bats R Throws R
MLB Organization Atlanta Braves.
20111 Teams Rookie-Class Gulf Coast Braves (.200, zero, two); Double-A Mississippi (.150, zero, two); triple-A Gwinnett (.278, eight, 17).
MLB Experience None.
Team Canada Experience 2001-02 Canadian National Junior Team; ‘09 WBC, 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
Teams: Coquitlam Reds and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: 12th round, 2002 draft, selected by New York Mets, signed by Claude Pelletier.
Where has he been: 2003 -- Class-A Kingsport (.121, 0, 3); Single-A Brooklyn (.203, 0, 5); 2004 -- SIngle-A Capital City (.258, 19, 69); 2005 -- Port St. Lucie (.221, 17, 53); 2006 -- Port St. Lucie .252, 3, 19); 2007 -- Port St. Lucie (.182, 1, 2); 2008 -- Port St. Lucie (.340, 2, 11), Double-A Binghamton (.248, 2, 10), 2009 -- Double-A Binghamton (.294, 9, 44); 2010 -- Double-A New Hampshire (.263, 22, 69); Class-A Dunedin (.462, zero, one).
Minor League Totals (nine seasons): 614 games, 116 doubles, 10 triples, 82 homers, 304 RBIs, .256 average.
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “Beating USA for the second time on the trip, this time for the gold medal.”
2. “Beating Mexico in Mexico with a hostile crowd to get to the gold medal game.”
3. “Cole Armstrong cramping up outside of the hotel.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. “Standing next to all the guys who you just went to war with, with a gold medal around your neck singing ‘Oh Canada.’”
2. “How fast this group of guys came together.”
3. “Dustin Mollekin’s pre and post game antics.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “my fiancé Courtney.”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was ... “Sir Larry Walker.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “Cole Armstrong and we couldn’t believe this had happened.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “This last month has meant a lot to Canadian baseball. I think we can start to be known as country who excels at baseball, not just a hockey. We’ve set a bar and hopefully this bar is reached often.”
Nick Bucci -- RHP
Hometown: Sarnia, Ont.
Age 21
Height 6’ 2” Weight 180 lbs.
Bats R Throws R
MLB Organization Milwaukee Brewers
2011 Team Class-A Brevard County
MLB Experience None
Team Canada Experience ‘08 World Jrs, 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
Teams: Team Ontario and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: 18th round, 2008 draft, signed by Jay Lapp.
Where has he been: 2008 -- Arizona Brewers Arizona Rookie-Class League (0-3, 7.36), 2009 -- Team Rookie-class Helena (6-3, 4.41) Double-A Huntsville (1-0, 6.75); 2010 -- Class-A Wisconsin (6-7, 3.51).
Minor League Totals (four seasons): 21-24, 3.98 ERA, 73 games, 313 hits, 157 earned runs, 144 walks, 302 strikeouts in 355 innings.
Michael Crouse OF
Hometown Port Moody, BC
Age: 20
Height 6’ 4” Weight 215
Bats R Throws: R
MLB organization Toronto Blue Jays
2011 Teams: class-A Lansing Lugnuts (.261, eight, 44).
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience:
School: North Shore Twins and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: 16th round, 2008, signed by Jays scout Kevin Briand.
Where he’s been: 2008 -- Rookie-Class Gulf Coast League Jays (.133, zero, zero); 2009 -- Gulf Coast Jays (.218, two, 17); 2010 -- Gulf Coast Jays (.333, four, 20); 2010 -- Lansing (.216, two, nine).
Minor league totals (four seasons): 219 games, 47 doubles, 15 triples, 22 homers, 101 RBIs, .252 average.)
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “Winning Gold over the USA.”
2. “VanOstrand’s double down the line to put us up a run in the final game.”
3. “Seeing USA Triumph over Cuba in the semi-final game.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. “Standing on the Podium and receiving my gold medal.”
2. “The run from centre field after the last out was made.”
3. “The crowd cheering Can-a-da, Can-a-da, for the entire championship game.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “my family.”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was .... “Rob Ducey.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “Marcus Knecht, how we need to remember how good this moment feels and how we can make this happen again with the Blue Jays in the World Series some day.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “It goes to show you that Canadians should be looked at as a team that can compete with anybody, we’ve proven that we have the players and the talent to win any tournament we enter.”
Emerson Frostad - INF
Hometown Calgary, Alta.
Age 28
Height 6’1” Weight 220 lbs.
Bats L Throws R
MLB Organization Houston Astros.
2011 Team Triple-A Oklahoma (.220, 1, 20), Double-A Corpus Christi (.295, 3, 8).
MLB Experience None.
Team Canada Experience 2001 Canadian National Junior Team; 2006 Olympic qualifier; 2007 World Cup; 2008 Olympic Qualifier, 2008 Olympics, 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
School and Teams: Lewis-Clark State College, Calgary Dawgs and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: 13th round, Lewis-Clark State College, 2003, signed by the Texas Rangers and scout Gary McGraw.
Where has he been: 2004 -- Class-A Clinton (.215, six, 42); 2005 -- Clinton (.269, 16, 62); 2006 -- Class-A Bakersfield (.320, 12, 51); Double-A Frisco (.244, 13, 44); 2007 -- Frisco (.241, 13, 44); 2008 -- Frisco (.260 6, 40); Triple-A Oklahoma City (.143, 1, 2); 2009 -- Oklahoma (.220, 1, 20), Frisco (.295, 3, 8); 2010 -- Frisco (.264, five, 39), Oklahoma City (.281, zero, six).
Minor League Totals (eight seasons): 722 games, 143 doubles, 19 triples, 66 homers, 325 RBIs, .256 average.
Mark Hardy LHP
Hometown Campbell River, BC
Age: 23
Height 6’ 4” Weight 195
Bats L Throws: R
MLB organization San Diego Padres.
2011 Team: Class-A Fort Wayne Tincups (11-10, 2.78).
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience:
School: University of British Columbia
Drafted: 43rd round, 2010, from the University of British Columbia.
Where he’s been: 2010 -- Rookie-class Arizona League Padres (3-2, 3.06), class-A Eugene (2-1, 3.00), class-A Lake Elisnore (0-1, 5.79), double-A San Antonio (0-1, 5.23).
Minor league totals (two seasons): 16-15, 3.05 in 41 games, 52 walks, 168 strikeouts in 203 2/3 innings.
Jim Henderson -- RP
Hometown: Calgary, Alta.
Age 28
Height 6’ 5” Weight 190 lbs.
Bats L Throws R
MLB Organization Milwaukee Brewers.
2011 Team: Triple-A Nashville (3-1, 5.93), double-A Huntsville (4-1, 2.64, five saves).
MLB Experience none
Team Canada Experience ‘99 World juniors, Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
School and Teams: Tennessee Wesleyan College, Calgary Dawgs and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: 26th round 2003 by the Montreal Expos.
Where has he been: 2003 -- Rookie-class Gulf Coast Expos (0-0, 2.25, one save), Single-A Vermont (1-1, 6.93); 2004 -- Vermont (2-6, 2.59); 2005 -- Single-A Savannah (9-11, 5.47); 2006 -- Savannah (0-1, 3.38), Single-A Potomac (2-2, 4.50, one save); 2007 -- Double-A Tennessee (4-3, 1.86, 10 saves); Triple-A Iowa (3-0, 5.54); 2008 -- Tennessee (0-1, 0.00, one save), Iowa (0-0, 15.00); 2009 -- Double-A Huntsville (1-0, 2.57), Single-A Brevard (3-0, 2.76, four saves), Single-A Wisconsin (0-0, 1.07, 17 saves); 2010 -- Huntsville (4-5, 5.46, seven saves).
Minor League Totals (nine seasons): 36-32, 4.14, 46 saves, 278 games, 525 hits, 317 earned runs, 244 walks, 436 strikeouts in 580 innings.
Shawn Hill -- RHP
Hometown Georgetown, Ont.
Age: 30
Height 6’ 2” Weight 215
Bats R Throws: R
MLB organization None.
2011 Teams: Went to spring training with Florida Marlins, injured had surgery, did not play.
MLB Experience: Six seasons with the Montreal Expos, Washington Senators, San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays.
Team Canada Experience: 2004 Athens Olympics.
School: Etobicoke Rangers.
Drafted: 6th round by Montreal Expos, 2000, signed by Alex Agostino.
Where he’s been: 2000 -- Rookie-class Gulf Coast Expos (1-3, 4.81); 2001 -- class-A Vermont (2-2, 2.27); 2002 -- class-A Clinton (12-7, 3.44); 2003 -- class-A Brevard County (9-4, 2.56), double-A Harrisburg (3-1, 3.54); 2004 -- Harrisburg (5-7, 3.39); 2006 -- Harrisburg (3-3, 2.68), triple-A New Orleans (0-0, 3.6); 2007 -- Class-A Potomac (0-0, 1.29), triple-A Columbus (0-1, 1.80); 2008 -- Potomac (1-0, 0.00), 2010 -- Rookie-class Gulf Coast Blue Jays (3-0, 0.41), class-A Dunedin (0-0, 3.00); double-A New Hampshire (1-0, 0.00), triple-A Las Vegas (2-2, 3.00).
Minor league totals: 42-31, 2.95 in 109 games, allowing 543 hits, 189 earned runs, 127 walks and 356 strikeouts in 575 2/3 innings).
Major league totals (nine seasons): 9-18 4.74 ERA in 44 starts, 74 walks, 151 strikeouts in 239 innings.
Jay Johnson -- LHP
Hometown Sussex Corner, NB
Age: 21
Height 6’ 2” Weight 210
Bats R Throws: L
MLB organization Philadelphia Phillies.
2011 Teams: Class-A Lakewood (1-5, 2.94, five saves).
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience:
School: Texas Tech University, Prairie Baseball Academy.
Drafted: 25th round by the Baltimore Orioles in 2009, 26th round by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2010, signed as a free agent by the Phillies.
Where he’s been: Class-A Lakewood.
Minor league totals (one season): 1-5 2.94, with five saves in 40 games, 16 walks, 35 strikeouts in 49 innings.
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. "Winning Gold."
2. "Opening ceremonies in Panama."
3. "Walking around the airports in the states on the way home with a fat gold medal."
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. "Molly."
2. "Bruts recruits."
3. "Risky moves."
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably … “My family."
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was …. “Larry Walker."
E) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: "Canadian baseball will hopefully continue to progress and consistently have success at international events."
Mike Johnson -- RHP
Hometown Edmonton, Alta.
Age: 36.
Height 6’ 2” Weight 200 lbs.
Bats L Throws: R
MLB organization None.
2011 Teams: Did not pitch.
MLB Experience: Five seasons with the Baltimore Orioles and the Montreal Expos.
Team Canada Experience: 2003 Olympic qualifier, 2004 Olympics, 2006 Olympic qualifier, 2007 World Cup, 2009 World Baseball Classic, 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier
School: Spruce Grove, Alta.
Drafted: 17th round by the Blue Jays, signed by Bill Byckowski.
Where he’s been: 1993 -- Rookie-class Gulf Coast Blue Jays (0-2, 4.87), 1994 -- Rookie-class Medicine Hat (1-3, 4.46), 1995 -- Medicine Hat (4-1, 3.86), Gulf Coast Jays (0-2, 7.20), 1996 -- class-A Hagerstown (11-8, 3.15), 1998 -- double-A Harrisburg (3-2, 6.95), triple-A Ottawa (4-9, 4.29); 1999 -- Ottawa (6-12, 5.38); 2000 -- Ottawa (2-0, 2.10); 2001 -- Triple-A Oklahoma (3-5, 4.58), Ottawa (2-0, 4.50); 2002 -- triple-A Las Vegas (2-1, 4.09); 2003 -- Triple-A Fresno (4-3, 3.72); 2004 -- Triple-A Edmonton (6-6, 5.93); 2006 -- Somerset, Atlantic, IND (5-4, 4.34); 2007 -- Edmonton, IND (2-7, 4.90); 2009 -- SK Wyverns, Korea (0-0, 13.50), Edmonton IND (2-4, 8.34); 2010 -- Yuma, IND (0-0, 4.70), Edmonton (2-1, 0.45).
Minor league totals (14 seasons): 59-70 with a 4.63 ERA in 314 games, walking 411 and striking out 932 in 1,142 innings.
Major league totals: 7-14, 6.85 in 81 games, 254 hits, 166 earned runs, 103 walks, 147 strikeouts in 218 innings.
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “Winning the gold medal at the Pan American Games, hearing and singing the Canadian National anthem with my teammates during the medal ceremony.”
2. “Beating Team USA twice. Once in the World Cup and again in the gold medal game of the Pan Ams.”
3. “The meeting we had after the first practice in Panama. Ernie Whitt, Jimmy (VO), Stubby Clapp and myself all said something. I truly believe that set the tone for what was about to happen.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget:
1. “My teammates. An unbelievable group of young men who truly bought into playing for the team and your country. Canada is going to be in good hands in the years to come.”
2. “How happy Greg Hamilton and Bernie Soulliere were when we won gold. All of the time and effort they have given to the program, I don’t think I could be happier for two individuals.”
3. “Running onto the field when the final out was made against the US. I have never had that opportunity in 19 years of playing knowing we won the gold and championship.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “That had to be my wife Kelly. She has been with me from the beginning of everything and has always sacrificed everything for me so I can play. We were gone for a month. She worked full time and took care of our two kids Alyssa and Ronan so I could be apart of this.”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was ... “Tough question because there weren’t many Canadians playing when I was young.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about ... “Shawn Hill. I asked him if I could be the last to get the medal ... he said yes. Then we wanted to acknowledge the coaches and staff once we got our medals. So we made sure everyone knew and it was an awesome moment.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “I think the two-medal performance is huge for the program. It gives us confidence and it should let everyone who puts on that jersey the feeling that we can compete and be successful on the world stage. Our expectations should be pretty high from this moment on.”
Chris Kissock - RHP
Hometown: Fruitvale, BC
Age 26
Height 6’ 4” Weight 195 lbs.
Bats R Throws R
MLB Organization Philadelphia Phillies.
2011 Team Double-A Reading (3-7, 4.82, one save).
MLB Experience None
Team Canada Experience Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
School and Team: Lewis-Clark State College, Prairie Baseball Academy and Trail Legion.
Drafted: 9th round in 2007 by the Phillies.
Where has he been: 2007 -- Single-A Williamsport (2-3, 3.74, two saves); 2008 -- Single-A Lake City (4-6, 4.37, three saves); 2009 -- Single-A Clearwater (3-5, 3.98); 2010 -- Clearwater (6-3, 2.17, four saves), double-A Reading (1-0, 3.86).
Minor League Totals (five seasons): 19-24, 4.00, 10 saves, 182 games, 379 hits, 163 earned runs, 86 walks, 249 strikeouts in 366 1/3 innings.
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “No question No. 1 was the dog pile and celebration after we won the gold medal.”
2. “Personally, closing the semi-finial game against Mexico, especially when the double play was turned in the ninth and the crowd went from very very loud to dead silence.”
3. “Getting to step up onto the top of the podium above two power houses (USA and Cuba) and signing the Canadian national anthem.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. “The feeling of being at the top of the podium.”
2. “The dog pile after we won.”
3. “The Federalies in the back of the truck with the big guns.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “my entire family, friends and fiance”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was ... “Larry Walker.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “Nick Bucci and Skyler Stromsmoe and couldn’t believe what we just did.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “These medals and the 2009 bronze shows that Baseball Canada is a rising power house and should be respected in international baseball. There is no question Canadian baseball players and teams are getting stronger. The young players are getting more opportunities in collegiate baseball as well as pro ball. These two tournaments are a giant step for baseball in Canada.”
Brock Kjeldgaard -- OF
Hometown London, Ont.
Age: 25
Height 6’ 5” Weight 215 lbs.
Bats R Throws: R
MLB organization Milwaukee Brewers
2011 Teams: Class-A Brevard County (.268, 18, 49), Double-A Hunstville (.271, six, 27).
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience:
School: Indian Hills Community College
Drafted: 34th by the Brewers in 2005.
Where he’s been: 2006 -- Rookie-Class Helena (1-2, 5.29) 2007 -- Helena (0-1, 5.91); 2008 -- Helena (.278, eight, 31); 2009 -- class-A Wisconsin (.250, six, 58); 2010 -- Class-A Brevard County (.270, 17, 75).
Minor league totals (six seasons): .259 average, 104 doubles, 10 triples, 75 homers and 290 RBIs in 499 games
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “Beating the US in the gold medal game at the Pan Ams!”
2. “Singing the Canadian National anthem on the podium with the USA to the right and Cuba to the left.”
3. “Beating the Netherlands in the round robin of the World Cup. With the international extra inning rule, it was one of the most intense games I have ever been apart of.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. “How many times “Oh Canada” was sung by the entire team. Ending with the best rendition sung atop the podium!”
2. “Being able to share this special moment with a great group of Canadians.”
3. “Casino 238, the stashes, “plomo, plomo”, “Never say never”, the women’s softball game, Molley’s a beauty!”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “it has to be my entire family from my parents to my brother and sister, grandparents and girlfriend”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was ... “Larry Walker.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about ... “I stood beside Jamie Romak and Cole Armstrong.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “There is so much pride that Canadians bring when they step onto the field competing for their country. These two medals prove that Canada is very much a top contender in international baseball.”
Marcus Knecht -- OF
Hometown North York, Ont.
Age: 21
Height 6’ 1” Weight 200
Bats R Throws: R
MLB organization Toronto Blue Jays
2011 Teams: Class-A Lansing (.273, 16, 86)
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience:
School: Connors State College
Drafted: 23rd round by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2008, third round in 2010, signed by Darin Vaughn.
Where he’s been: 2010 -- Class-A Auburn (.268, five, 34).
Minor league totals (two seasons): .272 average 52 doubles, six triples, 21 homers, 120 RBIs in 182 games.
Kyle Lotzkar -- RHP
Hometown Delta, BC
Age: 21
Height 6’ 4” Weight 200 lbs.
Bats L Throws: R
MLB organization Cincinnati Reds.
2011 Teams: Class-A Dayton (3-2, 4.32)
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience:
School: Langley Blaze.
Drafted: 1st round, (53rd over-all) by the Reds and signed by Bill Byckowski.
Where he’s been: 2007 -- Rookie-class Gulf Coast Reds (0-2, 3.86), Rookie-Class Billings (0-0, 1.12); 2008 -- class-A Dayton (2-3, 3.58), 2010 -- Billings (2-0, 0.45), Rookie-Class Arizona League Reds (1-1, 3.33).
Minor league totals (four seasons): 8-8, 3.39 ERA in 45 games with 130 hits, 67 earned runs allowed, while walking 67 and striking out 73 in 177 2/3 innings.
Jonathan Malo -- SS
Hometown: Joliette, Que.
Age 28
Height 6’ 2” Weight 185 lbs.
Bats R Throws R
MLB Organization New York Mets
2011 Team Double-A Binghamton (.245, 1, 28), Triple-A Buffalo (.186, 0, 3).
MLB Experience none.
Team Canada Experience ‘01 World Juniors, 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
Schools and Team: Miami-Dade College, Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, Academie Baseball Canada and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: in the 48th round in 2003, signed by scout Claude Pelletier and Larry Chase.
Where has he been: 2005 -- Single-A Brooklyn (.231, 2, 15), Single-A Port St. Lucie (.143, 0, 2); 2006 -- Brooklyn (.174, 0, 5), Port St. Lucie (.239, 7, 33); 2007 -- Port St. Lucie (.255, 6, 40); 2008 -- Double-A Binghamton (.261, 4, 30); 2009 -- Binghamton (.245, 1, 28), Triple-A Buffalo (.186, 0, 3); 2010 -- Binghamton (.215, three, 22); Buffalo (.238, zero, one).
Minor League Totals (seven seasons): 639 games, 75 doubles, 16 triples, 26 homers, 195 RBIs, .233 average.
Dustin Molleken -- RP
Hometown: Regina, Sask.
Age 27
Height 6’4” Weight 230 lbs.
Bats L Throws R
MLB Organization Colorado Rockies.
2011 Team Double-A Tulsa (4-1, 4.76, six saves); triple-A Colorado Springs (0-0, 18.00).
MLB Experience None.
Team Canada Experience ‘02 World Jrs, 2009 World Cup.
Teams: Prairie Baseball Academy and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: 15th round in 2003 draft selected by Pittsburgh Pirates from the PBA.
Where has he been: 2006 -- Single-A Williamsport (1-2, 2.78); 2007 -- Single-A State College (1-0, 1.08), Single-A Hickory (3-1, 4.50) Lynchburg (0-0, 5.79); 2008 -- Hickory (5-4, 6.30), Single-A Lynchburg (3-2, 6.67, two saves); 2009 -- Double-A Altoona (1-1, 4.62, one save), Single-A Lycnhburg (3-1, 3.48, one save); 2010 -- Altoona (4-4, 4.15).
Minor League Totals (eight seasons): 25-20, 4.93, 10 saves, 179 games, 428 hits, 220 earned runs, 124 walks, 342 strikeouts in 401 1/3 innings.
Scott Richmond -- RHP
Hometown: North Vancouver, BC
Age: 32
Height 6’ 5” Weight 220
Bats R Throws: R
MLB organization Toronto Blue Jays
2011 Teams: Triple-A Las Vegas (6-9, 7.33)
MLB Experience: Three seasons with the Blue Jays.
Team Canada Experience: 2007 World Cup, 2008 Olympic Qualifier, 2009 World Baseball Classic.
Schools: Oklahoma State University, Missouri Valley College and Boiser Parish College.
Drafted: Signed as Free Agent College: Oklahoma State University by Jays scout Rob Ducey.
Where he’s been: 2005 -- Edmonton IND (1-4, 6.25), 2006 -- Edmonton IND (3-6, 3.03), 2007 -- Edmonton IND (10-7, 4.26); 2008 -- Double-A New Hampshire (5-8, 4.92); Triple-A Syracuse (1-3, 3.56); 2009 -- Rookie-class Gulf Coast Blue Jays (0-0, 8.10); Triple-A Las Vegas (0-1, 1.69); 2010 -- Class-A Dunedin (3-0, 1.29); New Hampshire (0-0, 2.70); Las Vegas (1-1, 2.70).
Minor league totals (seven seasons): 30-41, 4.79, 595 hits, 307 earned runs, 197 walks, 481 strikeouts in 576 1/3 innings in 143 games.
Major League Experience (three seasons): 9-14, 5.26, 33 games, 179 hits, 97 earned runs, 61 walks, 137 strikeouts in 166 innings.
In his own words
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “Winning bronze in Panama.”
2. “Beating Mexico to go to the Gold medal game.”
3. “Pitching the final 2 1/3 innings to close out the Americans and win Canada’s first-ever gold medal.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. “Standing on the podium singing the national anthem arm n’ arm with my teammates after receiving Canada’s first-ever Gold.”
2. “Throwing the last pitch and seeing a fellow ex-OSU Cowboy, Jordy Mercer, swing and miss and have Cole Armstrong fist pump and us run towards each other.”
3. “The celebration in the clubhouse after we won and the feeling of accomplishment that everyone had on their faces.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “my wife, Deanna! She has been there all year for me through the ups and downs and to see the season end on such a positive for myself and Canada made her the happiest. I know that both of our families were a very close second though!!”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was ... “Larry Walker! He was from BC and really put Canada on the map in the big leagues so that was very inspirational for me. Even though he was a hitter and I was a pitcher it showed that a Canadian kid can be a great player in MLB and that’s all I needed to try to do the same.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “Skylar Stromsmore and Chris Bisson and we were saying how we could stand right there at that moment forever and how unbelievable it was that we are about to get a gold medal.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “I hope it impacts a lot because its exactly what Canadian baseball needed! Winning medals in back-to-back tournaments is a great accomplishment. Fourth and fifth place finishes are good but winning a Pan Am Gold puts Canada at the top of the international world for the first time. The world already knew that we always are gonna be a tough opponent but now they know we have a great chance at winning every tournament!”
Chris Robinson -- C
Hometown: Dorchester, Ont.
Age 27
Height 6’0” Weight 215 lbs.
Bats R Throws R
MLB Organization Chicago Cubs
2011 Team Triple-A Iowa (.316, six, 33).
MLB Experience None.
Team Canada Experience 2002 World Jrs.; 2003 World Cup qualifier; 2003 World Cup; 2006 World Baseball Classic; 2007 World Cup; 2008 Olympic Qualifier, ‘08 Olympics.
School and Team: University of Illinois, London Badgers and Canadian National Junior Team, 2006 WBC, 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
Drafted: Third round 2005 by the Detroit Tigers, 2005
Where has he been: 2005 -- Class-A Oneonta (.154, zero, one); Class-A West Michigan (.257, zero, 15); 2006 -- Class-A Lakeland (.285, one, 47); Class-A Daytona (.356, two, 12); 2007 -- Double-A Tennessee (.263, one, 27); 2008 -- Tennessee (.214, 1, 19); 2009 -- Triple-A Iowa (.326, 2, 48); 2010 -- Iowa (.248, two, 26).
Minor League Totals (seven seasons): 514 games, 102 doubles, five triples, 12 homers, 227 RBIs, .280 average.
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “The post gold medal game celebration in the locker room with the boys was a definite highlight ... singing ‘Oh Canada’ and celebrating what we had finally accomplished our goal of winning a gold medal.”
2. “The final inning of the semi-final vs. Mexico, beating them with their crowd going crazy the entire game. It was a great atmosphere to play in and again showed how even keeled our club was, getting behind early and grinding our way back into the lead.”
3. “The game-winning double VO hit in the sixth inning of the gold medal game. I was on second and saw the ball come off his bat then heard the very pro Canada-Mexican crowd go nuts! I scored and turned around to see Timmy Smith score right behind me ... although it only provided us a one-run cushion it allowed our guys to relax a bit and play so well in the last third of the game.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. “I will always remember the last inning of the semi-final against Mexico. The entire stadium was going nuts with their lead-off hitter reaching ... you could barely hear yourself think ... Chris Kissock got the next batter to hit a ground ball for a 6-4-3 double play and the crowd went dead silent ... it gave me goosebumps ... you could hear a pin drop in the stadium ... this was one of the most memorable moments in my career.”
2. “The medal ceremony will be remembered forever. Standing on the podium with the boys listening to our national anthem with gold medals around our neck with Cuba and the US beside us will be tough memory to beat in the future. Prior to the ceremony, a teammate of mine from the Cubs (triple-A Iowa) playing for Team USA came over congratulated me, told me he knew how much this win meant to us and how he was really happy for me. I thought that spoke volumes to how other teams respect how passionate and patriotic we are. It shows how evident it is that we want to win as a team ... there is no other motive or thought process when team Canada gets together ... we are going to win or die trying. Everyone accepts their role and does what is needed for the team ... I’m not so sure that could be said about other countries.”
3. “The final out of the gold medal game where we had finally accomplished something so special. It was very emotional to share a moment like this with guys that you have been playing for, and with for years. This moment made all the other difficult moments in the last eight years including the Olympics, the World Baseball Classic and other tournaments seem a little less devastating.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “Mom and Dad were pretty excited! They were watching via twitter the entire tournament and I knew it was killing them not being able to be there. My wife was pretty pumped as well. The support we got from family and friends throughout the entire tournament via twitter, facebook and email was very inspiring.”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was ... “Larry Walker ... Tremendous career ... Tremendous person!”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about ... “I had Jamie Romak and Jimmy VanOstrand on either side ... and all VO and I could keep saying is “I can’t believe this ... It’s unbelievable ... we finally did it...” Once we got our medals, we couldn’t believe how heavy they were and that all of our hard work had paid off ... I’m not even sure whether it has even sunk in yet, days later.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “I think a medal like this on a stage like this allows people throughout the country and the world to see that Canada is now a baseball power. Gone are the days we used to go into tournaments hoping to beat the top countries in the world. Now we go into tournaments expecting to beat the other top countries. With third-place finishes in the last two World Cups and now a Gold Medal at the Pan Am Games, this team has made a statement that we should be respected as a force in International Baseball and that we should begin to get the respect and support that some of Canada’s other successful sports programs receive.”
Jamie Romak -- INF
Hometown London, Ont.
Age: 26
Height 6’ 0” Weight 230
Bats R Throws: R
MLB organization Kansas City Royals
2011 Teams: Double-A Northwest Arkansas.
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience: 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier
School: London Bagders
Drafted: 4th rund in 2003, signed by Lonnie Golbberg.
Where he’s been: 2003 -- Gulf Coast Braves (.176, zero, four); 2004 -- Rookie-Class Danville (.190, five, 22); 2005 -- Danville (.274, seven, 27); 2006 -- Class-A Rome (.247, 16, 68); 2007 -- Class-A Hickory (.275, five, 15), Class-A Lynchburg (.252, 15, 45); 2008 -- Lynchburg (.279, 18, 57); Double-A Altoona (.208, seven, 23); 2009 -- Lynchburg (.213, three, 14); Altoona (.243, five, 24); 2010 -- Class-A Wilmington (.304, seven, 48); Northwest Arkansas (.278, six, 16).
Minor league totals (nine seasons: .247 in 780 games in 170 doubles, seven triples, 117 homers and 434 RBIs.
In his own words ...
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. “Albers performance to win Gold. Throwing a fastball up and in to strike out Mendonca in a huge spot.”
2. “Taking the podium as Gold medalists and singing our anthem completely off cue.”
3. “The genuine pride and passion every single player and staff member had for being Canadian, representing our country.”
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. “Dancing to ‘Plomo Plomo’ on the bus before every game.”
2. “Expecting to win Gold and winning it.”
3. “My teammates ... greatest group I’ve ever played with and I’d go to battle with any one of them.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “I would imagine my Papa who recently passed away ... he was my biggest fan, he played for Canada’s hockey team in the war and briefly in the NHL. He knew what it felt like, and I imagine he loved watching every second of it from up above.”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was .... “Pat Borders was my favorite and I assumed since he played for the Blue Jays that he must have been Canadian.”
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “I was in the middle of Brock Kjeldgaard and Chris Robinson. It was an incredibly proud moment for Canada but also for the three of us all being from London. I was speechless, holding back tears.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “The magnitude hasn’t sunk in yet...this is a win for every Canadian player, past and present. I hope it gives us all a chip on our shoulder and I want to see the day where people walk around wearing Team Canada baseball jerseys.”
Tim Smith -- OF
Hometown: Toronto, Ont.
Age 25
Height 6’3” Weight 225 lbs.
Bats L Throws L
MLB Organizations Kansas City Royals.
2011 Team -- Rookie-Class Arizona League (.091, zero, zero); Double-A Northwest Arkansas (.311, 10, 49).
MLB Experience None
Team Canada Experience ‘03 World Jrs; ‘04 World Jrs, 2009 World Cup.
Schools and Teams: Arizona State University, Midland College, Team Ontario and Canadian National Junior Team.
Drafted: 7th round of 2007 amateur entry draft by the Texas Rangers, signed by scout Andy Pratt.
Where has he been: 2007 -- Single-A Spokane (.284, 1, 9); 2008 -- Single-A Clinton (.300, 13, 70); 2009 -- Double-A Frisco (.309, 8, 22), Single-A Bakersfield (.333, 7, 18), Rookie-Class Rangers Arizona League (.333, 1, 2); 2010 -- Double-A Northwest Arkansas (.306, nine, 50).
Minor League Totals (five seasons): 386 games, 77 doubles, six triples, 41 homers, 231 RBIs, .305 average.
In his own words …
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. "Feeling like Donovan Bailey running in from the outfield after Richmond punched out Mercer. The proud feeling running in was something I can't put to words. Just wanted to get in their with the boys as fast as I could and enjoy the moment."
2. "Defeating Mexico in their barn. The atmosphere was electric. Knowing we were going into a gold medal game was an anxiety attack.
3. "Scoring the winning run against USA in the gold medal game. It was a statement in a way. Sort of like 'we're in control now.' The pressure was on them for the rest of the game."
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. "Standing on the podium with pride."
2. "Making eye contact with my dad in the stands after our gold medal celebration. He gave me the nod and the thumbs up. I knew I had made him proud."
3. "Belting out Oh Canada before the games. A little Justin Bieber, a little "plomo" and we had our minds right. Oh, and a lot of Mully eye wash (kidding Mully, love ya brother)."
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably … “My father, Doug, actually made the trip to both Panama and Mexico. He hasn't had much of a chance to see me play the past couple years, so for him to see our success representing our country, it was simply heart warming. So happy he made it out."
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was …. “I was a die hard Blue Jays fan growing up. So once I realized Rob Butler was from Canada as a kid, I key holed in on him. Still remember his pinch hit in the World Series." E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “I was actually on the end, well the start. I received the medal first. So I was next to USA on my right and Jimmy Henderson on my left. We were taking it all in. I was so in the moment I can barely even remember what we talked about to be honest. I remember looking at each other with wide eyes and just being like 'wow.'" F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: "I think it's a real eye opener to the whole baseball world. I feel as if sometimes people feel like Canada is a push over. I think people now realize how much we've developed and that your in for a straight battle when you take on the gents in red and white."
Skyler Stromsmoe -- INF
Hometown Bow Island, Alta.
Age: 27
Height 5’ 10” Weight 175 lbs.
Bats S Throws: R
MLB organization: San Francisco Giants
2011 Team: Double-A Richmond (.277, two homers, 20 RBIs).
MLB Experience: None
Team Canada Experience:
School: Southern Arkansas University
Drafted: Signed as a free agent.
Where he’s been: 2007 -- Rookie-Class Arizona League Giants .290, two, 11); 2008 -- Class-A Salem-Keizer (.250, zero, zero); Class-A Augusta (.200, zero, zero); 2009 -- Salem-Keizer (.222, zero, one); Class-A San Jose (.267, two, 15); triple-A Fresno (.000, zero, zero); 2010 -- Augusta (.195, zero, 12); Richmond (.239, two, seven).
Minor league totals (five seasons): .249 average with 24 doubles, four triples, eight homers and 66 RBIs in 263 games).
1. “Singing Oh Canada throughout both tournaments on the bus, then on the podium, and in the clubhouse after the gold medal game. It didn’t matter that not many of us could carry a tune.”
2. “The crowd during the semi-final against Mexico. They were loud and and into the entire game. If 50% of fans in the USA and Canada sing “take me out to the ballgame,” 100% of the fans in Mexico were singing and chanting during our game. It was then amazing in the ninth inning how quiet they got after we turned a double-play.”
3. “Just being a part of baseball Canada, the opening ceremonies in Panama, facing both host countries, the practice fields in both countries, the off day spent at the resort, our softball game cheering, the Federalies, the Whitt/Albers meeting on the mound, the celebration after the gold medal, Molley.”
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably ... “would probably be my wife, parents and family. They all knew first hand how much time and effort I’ve put into my career and what an honor it was to play for Canada. I know there were many other friends, neighbors and relatives who were following the tournaments and were wishing us well.”
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was .... “any of the Toronto Blue Jays during their back to back World Series teams. Although they probably weren’t Canadian, to me they were, and I always wanted to be like Joe Carter and hit a game winning home run.
E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “Scott Richmond and Chris Kissock.
Richy asked me if I wanted to slide down the line so I didn’t look too small and he didn’t look to tall but I figured if I stood beside two tall players, anyone back home could recognize me on TV easier. We were all just soaking in the moment and saying that we couldn’t believe we actually did it.”
F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: “For Canada, I feel like winning a bronze and gold will bring people’s awareness to see that we aren’t just a country only good at hockey. We showed that players from across the country could bond together and compete at the highest level. It didn’t matter if we were from a big city or not, drafted high rounds or not or playing minor league ball or not. We all played for the name across our chest and everyone gave their best for each other and our county. For the the rest of the world, our performance showed that we aren’t some pushover country but one that can win any given tournament.”
Jimmy vanOstrand - 1B
Hometown Richmond, BC
Age 27
Height 6’4” Weight 225 lbs.
Bats R Throws R
MLB Organization Houston Astros
2011 Team Double-A Corpus Chrisi (.306, 11, 48).
MLB Experience none.
Team Canada Experience 2007 World Cup; 2008 Olympic Qualifier, 2008 Olympics, 2010 Pan Am/World Cup Qualifier.
Schools and Team: College: Cal Poly University, Allan Hancock College and North Delta Blue Jays.
Drafted: Eighth round, selected by Houston Astros in 2006 signed by Dennis Twombley.
Where has he been: 2006 -- Class-A Tri City (.297, 13, 49), 2007 -- Class-A Lexington (.289, 12, 60); 2008 -- Carolina (.292, 7, 64), Double-A Corpus Chrisi (.160, 0, 4); 2009 -- Corpus Chrisi (.283, 16, 71); 2010 -- Corpus Christi (.244, three, 44).
Minor League Totals (six seasons): 556 games, 111 doubles, seven triples, 51 homers, 304 RBIs, .277 average.
In his own words …
A) My top three highlights from the tournaments were:
1. "Scott Richmond striking out the last batter to give us the gold against the USA."
2. "Chris Kissock inducing a crowd silencing double play to give us two outs in the ninth inning against Mexico."
3. "Brock Kjeldgaard hitting an early home run against the USA in the World Cup."
B) Three things I’ll never forget . . .
1. "Standing on the podium singing O'Canada after our gold medal win over the USA."
2. "Our pre-game festivities featuring the national anthem, Justin Beiber's "never say never" and "Plomo Plomo."
3. "Cheering on our softball team playing against the Dominican when we ventured into Guadalajara on our off day."
C) The person at home who was happiest for me was probably … “ My parents... They have been so supportive my entire career and I know that winning the medals meant a lot to them. The overall support from so many people was really special and reminded us what playing for our country means and I think was a major driving force for our performance."
D) My favorite Canadian player growing up was …. “Justin Morneau ... when I was younger I was a huge fan of a lot of the Blue Jays but Morneau was a big influence on me. When he had first signed with the Twins and was in the minors I remember him working out with our team (North Delta Blue Jays) and having a major effect. E) On the podium I stood beside and we talked about .... “Chris Robinson and Emerson Frostad... how brutal my shoes were since i'd traded my turfs with one of the cuba players the night before and how I wanted to give Robbie my stuffed animal (came with the medals) for his twins so one of them wasn't left out." F) How much does this two-medal month impact the future of Canadian baseball: "I hope it has a big impact. The performance shows that Canadian baseball is producing top level players who are successful on the world stage. I hope that funding levels begin to reflect the level of performance that has been demonstrated lately by the players which will lead to further opportunities and results at the highest level and more opportunity and participation at every level."