Impressive CPBL Performances by Titans during Week 2

by Jim Stewart

Director of Baseball Operations Lawrence Vera announced the following Titans—Luc Gelinas, Jayden Bailey, Johnny Mantia, and Liam Seanor-- were designated as Players of the Week for July 3-11, based on their performances in the Canadian Premier Baseball League last weekend.

In the 15U Division, Luc Gelinas batted .667 (4 for 6) with 3 doubles versus the Ontario Nationals at St. Andrew’s College.  Head Coach Johnny Bethune offered this assessment of his infielder from St. Maximilian Kolbe CHS:   “Luc had a solid weekend for us at the dish and in the field. Playing up the middle, he made some fine defensive plays including a tough short hop to the backhand, something we've been working all winter on. At the plate, his extra base hits were impressive. He's worked hard over the off season so he's driving the baseball to all fields with authority. It's great to see but it doesn't surprise me with the incredible work ethic Luc has.” 

Jayden Bailey was selected as the outstanding 16U Titan with a high quality pitching performance versus the Toronto Mets. The right-hander from Collingwood CI scattered 5 hits over 6 innings on the bump, surrendering just two 2 runs.  He struck out 8 Mets. Head Coach Jesse Barker praised his starter’s focus and performance:  “Jayden handled the pressure of watching eyes from PBR and post-secondary school and delivered his best Titans performance to date versus the Toronto Mets. After a disappointing Game One, Bailey brought life to the squad with his overpowering fastball and devastating curveball.” The 16U skipper added “I’m impressed with his offseason work, adding 8-10 MPH on his fastball.  I expect more of the same this season, based on Jayden’s work ethic.”

In the 17U Division, First Baseman Johnny Mantia starred offensively as he went 5 for 11, collected 2 RBIS, scored one run, and drew a base on balls versus the Toronto Mets at SAC.  The right-handed hitter from Senator O’Connor CHS impressed Head Coach Lawrence Vera:  “Johnny made sure he was ready to face his old team.  Another solid weekend for our hitting leader.  Johnny’s off-season hard work is paying off.”

Our final star of the weekend was Liam Seanor who notched a high quality start for the 18U Titans.  The veteran right-hander from Huron Heights SS threw six innings and struck out three Oakville Royals.   He gave up five hits and three earned runs in his efficient outing for the Titans’ senior squad.  Head Coach Jeremy Uylenbroek characterized Seanor’s start as “a great performance versus the Royals. He pitched a complete game and only faced 9 batters over the minimum.  In doing so, he barely eclipsed the 100-pitch threshold with 104 total pitches.”  Coach Uylenbroek also praised the statistical efficiency of his starter:  “Liam managed to average less than 4 pitches per batter in the outing which is remarkable and helped keep the defense engaged and on their toes. His average of 3.85 pitches per AB and a 60 % strike-to-ball ratio also demonstrates his effectiveness. Our Titan staff and players look forward to more of these outings from Liam as he will surely lead us from the mound this season.”

Congratulations to Luc, Jayden, Johnny, and Liam for being selected Titans Players of the Week.