Winnipeg Goldeyes clobber Wichita Wingnuts to claim 2nd straight championship

WINNIPEG – The Winnipeg Goldeyes successfully defended their title by winning the American Association championship for the second straight year.

The Goldeyes earned back to back titles as they blasted the Wichita Wingnuts 18-2 in the game five clincher at Shaw Park on Wednesday. It’s their fourth championship in franchise history, also winning in 1994, 2012 and 2016.

“It hasn’t sunk in yet.” manager Rick Forney said. “I’m certainly not taking it for granted. I know how hard this is to do. I’m just really proud of my guys. I was just fortunate to land some really good people.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "It hasn't sunk in yet." manager Rick Forney said. "I'm certainly not taking it for granted. I know how hard this is to do. I'm just really proud of my guys. I was just fortunate to land some really good people."

The end result was never really in doubt after the Goldeyes scored nine runs in the second inning. The Fish added five more runs in fourth and coasted to another championship. The middle of the order for the Goldeyes supplied more than enough offence in game five. Shawn Pleffner hit for the cycle and finished the night with five runs batted in.

“It’s an unreal moment.” Pleffner said. “It’s everything we’ve worked for this whole year. It’s nice to finally come through and win a championship for everyone here.”

David Bergin and Mason Katz also slammed home runs in the win.

“Oh man just super excitement man.” exclaimed Bergin.

“I can’t even explain how much excitement I’m going through right now. I never really been able to experience this kind of emotions. And being apart of the team that I’ve been through this whole year, just so special man. I’m just super happy that we were able to pull it off and bring this win to Winnipeg.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "I can't even explain how much excitement I'm going through right now. I never really been able to experience this kind of emotions. And being apart of the team that I've been through this whole year, just so special man. I'm just super happy that we were able to pull it off and bring this win to Winnipeg."

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The Goldeyes turned to game two winner Edwin Carl on the mound for the all or nothing contest. Carl didn’t disappoint as he pitched six strong innings. He allowed two earned runs on five hits in earning his second victory of the series.

It was standing room only for the winner take all affair with an announced attendance of 6363.

Three of the Goldeyes’ four championship victories have come against the Wingnuts and it was the first time the Goldeyes won a championship on home field since 1994.

“I love this city man.” Goldeyes outfielder Reggie Abercrombie said. “This city is beautiful. I love you Winnipeg.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "I love this city man." Goldeyes outfielder Reggie Abercrombie said. "This city is beautiful. I love you Winnipeg."

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