News

HAVANA, CUBA – Baseball Canada national senior team outfielder Mike Saunders (Victoria, B.C.) has been named to the 2006 COPABE Americas Olympic Qualifier All-Star team.

Saunders, the youngest member of Canada’s roster, was the only Canadian named to the all-tournament team.  The 19-year-old hit .448 with 7 RBI in nine games during the tournament where he also boasted a .586 slugging percentage and hit four doubles.

As impressive as his offensive numbers were, Saunders’ may have made his biggest impact in the outfield. While playing errorless ball, Saunders also collected three outfield assists – Two of which gave Canada a lift in extremely close games.

With two out in the eighth in the tournament opener against Puerto Rico, Saunders gunned down Jesus Feliciano at the plate to keep Canada within three and to set up 6-5 Canadian comeback win.

Two days later, Canada’s second comeback win of the tournament was also partly set-up by Saunders. With two away in the bottom of the ninth of a tie game against Venezuela, Saunders’ throw from left field beat Luis Landaeta to the plate to send the game into extra innings where Canada scored twice to win 7-5.

Saunders also ended a ninth inning comeback attempt by Brazil by throwing out Wilson Watanose at third base as the Brazilian tried to stretch a double into a triple. Canada won that game 7-3.

Saunders finished the tournament 5^th in hits (13) and 2^nd in doubles (4) and 6^th in batting average (.448).

Other Canadians Among Tournament Leaders: