Jays set to face off against Ivy Leafs in NDBL Championship

September 4, 2014 · 0 Comments

By Jake Courtepatte

The Aurora Jays senior men’s baseball team is three wins away from their first-ever North Dufferin Baseball League (NDBL) title.

After steamrolling their way through the first two rounds, sweeping both Barrie and New Lowell in six games total, the Jays now face their toughest opponent yet in the Ivy Leafs.

The Leafs finished the season in third place, two points behind the league-leading Jays.

Ivy is also riding a high heading to the championship series, coming off a second-round win that saw them defeat the Bolton Brewers, winners of the last five Strother Cups.

And Jays coach Rob Wilson said his team is not taking their opponent lightly.

“We were able to find some success against them sduring the season, but we really expect Ivy to come out guns blazing on Saturday.”

Wilson said this year’s Ivy team is stronger than in past years, with the acquisitions of Todd Gowan and pitcher Brad Grieveson.

“They’ve always been a strong hitting team, but this year they picked up even more excellent hitting and pitching. Those two are among the best in their disciplines. It definitely bolsters their roster.

However, after finishing first in the regular season standings, Wilson says the Jays are just going to stick to their game.

“We’re quite confident we can put up runs in bunches, and our consistency on defence has been key all year long.”

“We might be the team to beat on paper, but we have a healthy dose of respect for Ivy and are ready to bring our ‘A’ game.”

Although the NDBL is on a short break before the championship kicks off Saturday, the Jays stayed in playing form last weekend at the Senior AA Provincials in Orillia.

After a first-round bye, the Jays finished third overall after a win over London and a loss each to Exeter and New Lowell.

For full NDBL schedules and stats, visit www.ndbl.ca.