Saskatoon Berries head to WCBL championship series for the first time

The Saskatoon Berries achieved a significant milestone on August 12th when they secured their place in the WCBL championship series for the first time. This success is attributed to their victories over the Moose Jaw Miller Express on Tuesday and Wednesday, clinching wins of 7-4 each. The team's confidence has been bolstered by these wins, as they prepare to face the Sylvan Lake Gulls in the championship series, beginning with Game 1 on Saturday.

The Berries will travel to Sylvan Lake, just west of Red Deer, Alberta, for the first match. They are coming off a strong week, and relief pitcher Brooks Jones expressed that winning against Sylvan Lake earlier in the week has given them a significant confidence boost. Sylvan Lake, on the other hand, aims to prove themselves as a formidable opponent, having lost to Regina last year in the 2025 Championship Game.

Head coach Joe Carnahan acknowledged the challenges Sylvan Lake presents, highlighting their strong pitching, potent lineup, and excellent defensive skills. Nevertheless, he emphasized the importance of the team's collective identity and attitude, urging the players to remain consistent with their approach all season long. For the Saskatoon Berries, securing a win in Game 1 would be a monumental achievement, potentially determining the outcome of the series, as the championship series would be played on their home turf in Saskatoon.