Nepean Sportsplex, August 15– The Nepean Padres once again lived up to their lofty reputation Thursday night, overcoming early doubts to crush the SweatSox 12-2 and claim the season series at the Nepean Sportsplex. With the victory, the Padres (16-2-1) solidified their dominance, evening the lifetime series with the SweatSox (10-9-1) at 3-3-2 since they entered the league last season.
The story heading into the game was one of uncertainty. The Padres, plagued by a short roster, scrambled to field a team, even resorting to signing a few last-minute free agents. On social media, their usual bravado was replaced by uncharacteristic humility, giving the impression they were ripe for the taking.
But the SweatSox had other plans—ones that didn’t involve seizing the opportunity.
The game’s pivotal moment came early, with SweatSox starter Mark Bond unable to escape the top of the first inning. Facing 11 batters, Bond struggled with control, surrendering seven runs on two hits, six walks, a hit batter, and a wild pitch before being pulled with two outs.
“I just didn’t have it tonight,” Bus Cop said postgame. “The Padres came ready, and I didn’t execute.”
Mark was relieved by Josh Ramage, who recorded the final out of the inning on just one pitch, but the damage was done.
Adding a layer of nostalgia to the evening was the pitching matchup between Bond and Connor Colvin, a former camper under Bond’s guidance at the Dovercourt Recreation Centre (the silent sponsor of our team hoodies many years ago). Colvin, now a standout for the Padres, showcased his poise, delivering four dominant innings of work. He allowed just two hits, two walks, and one earned run while striking out four.
“It was surreal facing Mark,” Colvin said. “He’s someone I’ve looked up to, but tonight was about helping my team. We really wanted this win.”
Colvin earned the victory, while Bond took the loss in what was a stark contrast of fortunes for the former mentor and mentee.
Despite the lopsided scoreline, the SweatSox had their moments. Eric White led the offense, going 2-for-2 with a double, a hit-by-pitch, two stolen bases, and a run scored. Behind the plate, Andrew Hierlihy endured the heat and a long night, earning Defensive Player of the Game honors for his resilience.
On the mound, Larry Pawelek provided stability, pitching three innings of relief, even striking out Padres leadoff man Patrick Fitzmaurice. Pawelek’s effort earned him the distinction of Sweatiest Player of the Game.
After the game, SweatSox manager Cory Bond’s legendary leadership once again showed up in a big way, delivering a parking lot speech that was equal parts inspiration and defiance. “This team will never lose again (in the regular season),” he vowed. The players, though weary, nodded in unison, ready to turn the page.
The SweatSox will have a chance to rebound quickly, facing the Bats Friday night at Trillium. First pitch is at 8:30 p.m.
Whether Bond’s bold prediction proves prophetic or premature, one thing is certain: this SweatSox team is far from finished.
Final SweatSox vs Padres IV Notes/Thoughts:
- Chez Lucien is epic.
- Mark’s eye looks and feels better than Primeau’s junk.
- Only 2 more games until Mikey “Mays” Hayes gets his glove back.
- Bring the lumber, bring the water.
- What exactly are the Padres up to with these X mindgames?
- Josh’s math is just wrong.
- For what I can only assume is for nefarious reasons, Cory knows all of our license plate numbers, and probably knows yours too.