De Grandpre showcases versatility in Quebec win over Atlantic
Cedric De Grandpre pitched four scoreless innings for Quebec in their 4-2 win over Atlantic at T12 at Rogers Centre on Saturday. De Grandpre served as a designated hitter and as a first baseman in Quebec’s first two games of the tournament. Photo Credit: Warren Kosoy
By Warren Kosoy
Canadian Baseball Network
TORONTO - Cedric De Grandpre showed he’s not just a hitter as he led Quebec-Blue to a 4-2 victory against Atlantic-Maroon in Tournament 12 action on Saturday afternoon.
De Grandpre threw four shutout innings, allowing just four base runners, with four strikeouts and was awarded the win based on the shortened seven-inning format.
The 16-year-old has also been impressive in the team’s previous two games with the bat. The 6-foot-1 teenager drew four walks in the opening-win against Futures-Navy, then added a hit during a tie versus Prairies-Purple - all while competing in familiar territory.
“I’ve been here before (at Rogers Centre), I kind of know the drill, I’ve played here before,” said the native of Saint-Simon-de-Bagot, Que. “I just try to keep my head down and play my game.”
Jason Begin delivered the game-winning hit in the fifth inning, doubling home Anthony GIlbert to secure the win De Grandpre.
While no player in this tournament knows what their future holds in baseball, De Grandpre certainly has aspirations past representing Quebec-Blue (2-0-1).
“Everyone wants to be a pro and I just want to keep working hard and hope it works out,” he said.
Leadoff man Tristan Aspeck also had a solid game for Quebec, reaching based twice via a walk and single, while recording his second straight two-stolen base game.
Atlantic-Maroon had mass substitutions throughout the game as it replaced seven starters, leaving the team without a standout offensive performer.
Atlantic -Maroon starting pitcher Ryan Scott seemed to have things in control until giving up two runs in the fifth with two outs.
Scott pitched five innings, striking out six while allowing four hits and three earned runs.
Atlantic-Maroon (1-1) had a chance to win in the bottom of the seventh with two men on base and two outs. But Ben MacDougall struck out swinging to end any hope of a comeback.
Quebec-Blue will play its next game Sunday morning at 10 a.m. E.T. against Futures-Navy, while Atlantic-Maroon will look to bounce back Sunday night at 8 p.m. E.T. against Prairies-Purple.