Canada and Argentina strike first in the Qualifier for the Pan American Games

(Press Release; WBSC-AMERICAS BASEBALL).- The national teams of Canada and Argentina struck first in the Qualifier for the Pan American Games that began its action in Buenos Aires.

Canada came from behind to outscore Panama 6-5 in eight innings, backed by timely hitting and key relief in the final three innings of the game.

Offensively Matt Lloyd went 2-for-3 with two runs scored and two RBIs, while Jordan Procyshen went 1-for-3 with a run scored and two RBIs, David Glaude also went 1-for-4 with an RBI.

But Michael Brettel's two shutout innings of relief with a walk and a strikeout for the win and R.J. Freure inning of relief allowing an unearned run with a walk to secure the save, was key in the game.

In the other game, Argentina defeated Peru 11-4 with a seven-run rally in the fifth inning, which ended up being decisive in the game.

Argentina's offense was led by Alejandro García who went 2-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBIs, also Nicolás Alvarado went 2-for-3 with a run scored and RBI.

Kevin Riello got the victory by working two scoreless innings with two walks and two strikeouts as the first reliever of the game.

On Saturday there will be two other matches, first game in the morning Peru will be visiting Honduras (11am) and later Argentina will face Canada in an undefeated duel (3pm).

Only the tournament champion will qualify for the Pan American Games to be held in Santiago, Chile.

 (Media Department; WBSC-AMERICAS BASEBALL)