CLARKWATCH: Follow news and updates regarding sanctions on Mayor Clark.

Bulls bust up Mavs; spoil home opener

Jun 5, 2017 | 9:53 PM

 

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The Lethbridge Bulls didn’t hold back in proving their dominance over the Medicine Hat Mavericks on Monday.

The Highway 3 rivals spoiled the Mavs 2017 home opener with an 8-2 victory, putting themselves a full game up on the Okotoks Dawgs for first place in the Western Division.

Both teams don near polar-opposite records in the early parts of the season. Medicine Hat is still searching for thier first victory with a 0-4 record, while the Bulls are riding high with confidence, boasting an undefeated 5-0 start to the campaign.

Medicine Hat raised a few eyebrows in the seventh inning, setting up what suggested a comeback. Tanner Helms ran in the Mavs first run of the game thanks to a base hit from Jackson Freed. Two batters later, with bases loaded and no out, lead off hitter Louie Canjura had the potential to bring the Mavs within three. Instead, Lethbridge converted on a quick double play to halt any chance at a potential home team comeback.

Helms pumped out a sac fly in the 8th, bringing in local product Zach Kunkel for the Mavs second run of the evening.

This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Medicine Hat. Back in 2015, the Mavericks lost their first four contests, but went on to win four of their next five. They ultimately finished the season two games above .500. Medicine Hat made it into the second round of the post-season before being swept by Lethbridge.

The Mavericks return to action on Tuesday night, hosting the Brooks Bombers at Athletic Park. Game time is 7:05 p.m.