Saskatoon Berries Set for WCBL Playoffs After Record 46 Wins

UPDATE: The Saskatoon Berries are gearing up for the Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) playoffs after achieving a historic 46 wins this season, setting a new league record. The Berries clinched the top seed in the East Division and will kick off their playoff campaign against the Moose Jaw Miller Express on Wednesday, July 14, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Cairns Field.

In a thrilling regular-season finale, the Berries secured a 7-5 victory against the Medicine Hat Mavericks, highlighted by a dramatic grand slam from infielder Mason Roell. This pivotal moment not only showcased the team’s resilience but also etched their name in the WCBL record books, surpassing the previous record of 45 wins held by the Sylvan Lake Gulls.

“We’re ready to go,” said Berries outfielder Jalen Freeman after the game. “We’ve trained all season, we’ve worked all season, we’ve shown it and we’re the team for it.” The Berries finished the regular season with an impressive 46-9 record, positioning themselves as formidable contenders for the playoff title.

Head coach Joe Carnahan acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “They have a good team. They’re scrappy, they play hard, it’s going to be a good series.” Despite winning seven out of eight matchups against Moose Jaw this season, Carnahan knows the postseason can change everything.

The Berries will need to capitalize on their strong lineup and consistent performance to advance. Starting pitcher decisions are still pending, with candidates including Matthew Whitney, Merek Yeager, Diego Quinonez, and Michael Sall. Their ability to execute fundamental baseball will be crucial in this high-stakes series.

Returning players like Freeman carry the weight of last year’s playoff defeat against Moose Jaw, where they lost the East Division final despite a promising start. “They got us last year. I want to get back at them,” Freeman declared, emphasizing the motivation driving the team.

As the Berries prepare for this critical playoff series, they face a Moose Jaw team led by standout players William Edwards and Austin Gurney. Despite the Miller Express’s 27-29 record, they are not to be underestimated, according to infielder Cooper Wesslund, who stated, “Counting them out will be a mistake.”

Game 1 is set for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, with the series shifting to Moose Jaw for Game 2 at the same time on Thursday. A potential Game 3, if necessary, will take place on Friday night in Saskatoon, where one team will secure a spot in the East Division final.

Fans are urged to stay tuned as the Berries embark on their playoff journey, fueled by record-breaking achievements and a hunger for victory. The excitement is palpable as the team looks to claim the Harry Hallis Memorial Trophy in the coming weeks.