Baycats’ offence sinks Leafs in opener

BARRIE – Brandon Hernandez had three of Barrie’s 18 hits and drove in six runs in the Baycats’ series-opening 14-8 win over Toronto on Thursday at Vintage Throne Stadium.

Nolan Machibroda homered and drove in two, Malik Williams, Royce Ando and Ryan Rijo each had two hits and an RBI, Adam Odd went 4-for-5 and drove in a run, and Brad McQuinn singled, doubled and drove in two.

Barrie starting pitcher Frank Garces (1-0) threw six scoreless innings to pick up the win. He scattered three hits, walked two and struck out 10.

Ryan Lacasse was credited with the save after allowing eight runs (four earned) on nine hits over three innings. He walked three and struck out one.

Mike Cecchetto led the Leafs by going 3-for-5 with a home run and five RBI. Justin Marra had three hits, including a solo home run, and Marcus Knecht added a two-run blast as Toronto mounted a late rally.

Leafs’ starting pitcher Angel Castro (1-0) was touched for 12 runs on 12 hits in 3.1 innings to take the loss. He walked three and struck out three.