CARLYLE — The Carlyle Cardinals were on fire this season, stacking up wins and showing their strength on the diamond. With solid pitching, sharp defence and big bats at the plate, the team proved they are a force to be reckoned with.
The Cardinals’ recent victories not only boosted their record but also their confidence as they pushed into the later part of the season. Game after game, the team came together, delivering strong performances from both seasoned veterans and younger players stepping into key roles.
Brent McLean is one of the veterans, playing with the team for 25 years and managing since 2018. He can still be seen both pitching and playing in the field.
“It was a really good year,” said McLean. “And one of the best on record.”
Regular season
The Cardinals’ season ended with a tournament in Estevan from July 25–27. Rain delays pushed the final game to July 28 between the Estevan Southeast Diamondbacks and Carlyle.
Down one run with two out and two strikes, Ty Fehrenbach hit a single to bring a runner home and tie the game. With Fehrenbach on base, McLean stepped up and launched a two-run home run, giving Carlyle a 4-2 win. The victory sealed their sixth straight league championship.
Provincial tournament
The Cardinals advanced to provincials, travelling to Saskatoon for the AA Tier 1 tournament Aug. 1–3.
They opened with a 3-2 win over the Regina Rockies, highlighted by a two-run homer from Kody Rock and strong pitching from Danny Rasmussen. McLean added an RBI to secure the win.
Next up were the Saskatoon Hoppers, with Ethan Scott shining on the mound in an 8-4 victory. Carlyle then topped the Saskatoon Outlaws 8-2 with 13 hits, advancing to the final.
Facing the Rockies again, the Cardinals dominated 11-1 to win the AA Tier 1 provincial championship — the first in team history.
Western Canadian championship
The Cardinals then travelled to Westlock, Alta., for the Western Canadian Baseball Championship Aug. 15–18.
They dropped their opener 4-0 to West Winnipeg before bouncing back with a 1-0 win over Kelowna. A hard-fought 11-9 victory over the Cartwright Twins clinched a semifinal berth, but Carlyle fell 11-0 in the rematch, ending their run without a third-place game.
Despite the finish, McLean said the team was proud of its effort and success.
The Cardinals are thrilled with their historic season and grateful for the support they received. They are already looking ahead to the 2026 campaign.
