The Bruno Merchants are in Saskatoon for the 2024 National Men's Fast Pitch Championships at the Gordie Howe Complex this week.
They opened with a 2-1 loss to Kitchener this afternoon.
Coach Ray Bender said the game was decided on a couple of plays.
“It was a close game, we only gave up two hits, but unfortunately one was an inside the park home run and the other was a double after a walk.”
Bruno outhit Kitchener 3-2.
Leading up to Nationals, the Merchants were involved with a very competitive men’s league in Saskatoon.
During the summer, Bruno competed in a few tournaments and managed to win a pair of tournaments in Regina.
In July, they competed in provincials where they finished second.
At Nationals, the Merchants will be back on the field on Wednesday night against the Toronto Batmen, who are the defending National champions.
On Thursday, the Bruno meet the Bear Creek Express at 12:15 and the Grande Prairie Pirates at 4:30.
Friday marks the end of the round robin, the Merchants will meet the two teams from Newfoundland, the Physio and Co at 2:30 and then the Galway Hitmen at 6:30.
The playoffs begin on Saturday, with the finals on Sunday.