2023 Program - Issue 8

OFFICIAL PROGRAM OF THE VANCOUVER CANADIANS

MEET OUR

MASCOTS

Q&A WITH

IAN CURCHILL SUPERSTAR SERIES JOHN GIBBONS - AUGUST 8

HOW JOSE BAUTISTA’S BAT-FLIP LED

NASWELL PAULINO TO VANCOUVER

TEAM ROSTERS

2023 SEASON - ISSUE 8

DON’T MISS A&W FAMILY FUN

GATES OPEN AT NOON. FIRST PITCH 1:05 APRIL 9

Toque Giveaway FIRST 500 FANS

APRIL 16

Umbrella Giveaway FIRST 500 FANS

APRIL 30

Mascot Blanket Giveaway

FIRST 500 KIDS 12 AND UNDER

MAY 14

JULY 16

Mother's Day Visor Giveaway

Bucket Hat Giveaway

JUNE 4

Pennant Giveaway

FIRST 500 MOMS (WITH A CHILD PRESENT)

Mascot Beach Towel Giveaway FIRST 500 KIDS 12 AND UNDER

JUNE 18

Father's Day Hat Giveaway

FIRST 500 DADS (WITH A CHILD PRESENT)

JULY 2

Mascot Socks Giveaway FIRST 500 KIDS 12 AND UNDER

FIRST 500 KIDS 12 AND UNDER

JULY 30

FIRST 500 KIDS 12 AND UNDER

AUGUST 13

Fanny Pack Giveaway FIRST 1,000 FANS

AUGUST 27

Mini Bat Giveaway

FIRST 500 KIDS 12 AND UNDER

SEPTEMBER 3

Lunch Bag Giveaway FIRST 500 KIDS 12 AND UNDER

2 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

MARK STEFFENS/FOTOGUY PHOTOGRAPHY

CONTENTS

9 GET TO KNOW YOUR CANADIANS FRONT OFFICE STAFF

Meet the team behind our team as we feature those who work around the clock to ensure your best ballpark experience.

14 2023 PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE

This is your chance to map out the entire summer using our vibrant and colourful Promo Schedule that shows you every single moment this season. A great tool to plan out the games you absolutely HAVE to see this season.

17 ROAD TO THE SHOW

Climbing through the Blue Jays system.

18 TEAM ROSTERS

22 MEET THE 2023 VANCOUVER CANADIANS

This year’s squad is looking to bring home Northwest League Championship #5! Let’s meet this year’s ‘Boys of Summer’!

34 STEINER STORIES: NASWELL PAULINO

How Jose Bautista’s bat-flip led Naswell Paulino to Vancouver

32 HOW TO SCORE THE BASEBALL GAME A Scorekeeping 101.

40 Q&A WITH IAN CHURCHILL

2023 Vancouver Canadians pitcher Ian Churchill makes his way to the mound in the latest instalment of C’s Chat.

48 MEET OUR MASCOTS!

The Canadians feature not one, not two, but seven amazing mascots all with their own claim to fame! Take a look at the colourful characters that keeps fans smiling all summer long.

50 KIDS FUN PAGE

Fun kids activities

The Souvenir Program is published by the Vancouver Canadians Professional Baseball Club. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission of Vancouver Canadians Professional Baseball Club is prohibited. Copyright 2023 Vancouver Canadians Professional Baseball Club. 4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver, BC Canada V5V 3H4. Phone: 604-872-5232 Fax: 604-872-1714 Email: staff@canadiansbaseball.com Web: www.canadiansbaseball.com

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 3

A MESSAGE FROM JAKE KERR & JEFF MOONEY Welcome to Nat Bailey Stadium.

This season we are celebrating 44 years of Vancouver Canadians Baseball as we welcome both you and our “Boys of Summer” back once again to historic Nat Bailey Stadium.

2022 is set to be a remarkable year in many ways. First and foremost, C’s baseball is back at The Nat for the first time since August 2019. So much has happened between now and then; the global pandemic wiped out the 2020 season and we spent all of 2021 playing away from home. There were times when we were not sure what the future would hold, but as caretakers of your professional baseball team we remain steadfast in our commitment to the ballclub, to you, the fans, and to this wonderful community. We cannot tell you just how excited and grateful we are to be back home.

Through it all, we strive to create what we feel is the best sports experience not just in Vancouver, but in all of Minor League Baseball. We hope by the end of today’s game, you’ll agree with us.

Team president Andy Dunn and his staff have been working tirelessly to ensure that our return to Nat Bailey Stadium gives you any number of opportunities to create new and lasting memories with your colleagues, friends, and loved ones.

UNIGLOBE CAREFREE TRAVEL AND THE VANCOUVER CANADIANS PRESENT

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAMES We have continued our important work through the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation. Over 300 local children will join our program this year and we look forward to getting back out in the local community through a multitude of commitments that we proudly honour. We hope that you will continue to support our team and our community alongside us.

Enjoy the game and thank you for choosing to spend your time with us. We are proud to showcase the future stars of the Toronto Blue Jays for you and hope that today is another chance for you to create a memory with us all summer long.

2 GAME FAN GETAWAY – TORONTO IN SEATTLE – JULY 22 & 23 Fully Escorted Package Includes

Here’s to many, many more years of fun and memories here at historic Nat Bailey Stadium.

Go C’s!

Round trip coach transportation - departing from and returning to Nat Bailey Stadium 1 Night at the Hyatt at Olive 8 Downtown Seattle Game Tickets to both games - lowest level - 3rd base line (behind the Blue Jays’ dugout) Jake Kerr & Jeff Mooney

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY FROM $699 | SINGLE OCCUPANCY FROM $869 CONTACT NEAL CHARK AT 604-767-2042 OR NEALC@UNIGLOBECAREFREE.CA Payment in full required upon registration / Non-refundable / Names can be transferred.

Valid Passport required to travel / Must be fully vaccinated / Prices do not include GST and are subject to change.

4 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2017 2023

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 5

Our content hits home with readers.

We’re the trusted source for community news, award-winning stories and local flavour.

Glacier Media is part of the largest local news network in Canada Ask us about audience targeting. Visit goteam.glaciermedia.com

FRIDAYS

Gates Open at Noon. First Pitch 1:05 BUY TICKETS 7 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2019

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 7

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball League is looking for your help this season. Your assistance will help more than 300 local children between the ages of 6-11 learn a number of life skills on the diamond including teamwork, fair play and how to develop confidence and pride.

If you would like to make a donation to Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation, please go to www.vancouverfoundation.ca/vancouvercanadians and click on the donate button.

THANK YOU for supporting the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation and Vancouver Canadians Baseball League. Because of your generosity, we can move forward and bring a summer of fun and memories to children from right here in our own neighbourhoods.

8 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

FRONT OFFICE STAFF JAKE KERR

CHAIR OF VANCOUVER CANADIANS BASEBALL Born and raised in Vancouver, Jake Kerr attended the University of British Columbia before completing his MBA in Economics and Finance at the University of California at Berkeley. A Canadian business icon, Mr. Kerr has been the recipient of the Order of Canada and Order of British Columbia for his remarkable contributions to both our country and province.

Taking ownership of the Canadians back in 2007, Mr. Kerr has led the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club to eight (8) franchise attendance records, multiple Larry McPhail Awards for excellence within the Northwest League, and Minor League Baseball’s most coveted accolade - the John H. Johnson President’s Trophy, awarded to MiLB’s most complete franchise.

ANDY DUNN

PRESIDENT Andy Dunn has been with the Vancouver Canadians since 2007, helping guide Canada's only affiliated Minor League Baseball franchise to a number of national accolades including the coveted John H. Johnson President's Trophy (2013) presented to the most complete franchise in MiLB - marking the first time in the award's 40-year history that a Canadian-based organization received the honour.

Known by many in the baseball world, Andy has twice been named Florida State League Executive of the Year (1999, 2000) and also Northwest League Executive of the Year (2008), and has helped the Canadians reach new heights with 10 Northwest League awards during his tenure in Vancouver including multiple John H. Johnson & Larry MacPhail Awards

JEFF MOONEY

CHAIR OF THE VANCOUVER CANADIANS BASEBALL FOUNDATION In addition to his valuable contributions to the Vancouver Canadians, Jeff Mooney is Chairman Emeritus and a major shareholder of A&W Food Services of Canadians Inc. Today, A&W is a strategy-driven organization that has grown to over 1,000 locations across Canada. A&W has been recognized as one of the 50 Best Managed Companies in Canada for the past 10 consecutive years, and in 2008, it was honoured to become an official member of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Platinum Club.

Mr. Mooney is an alumnus of both the University of Saskatchewan and Harvard University Graduate School of Business. In 2003, Mr. Mooney received Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee Medal and three years later was inducted into the Restaurant Hall of Fame(2006). In 2016, Mr. Mooney was inducted into the B.C. Business Laureates Hall of Fame and this year received the Order of Canada

ALLAN BAILEY

GENERAL MANAGER Allan Bailey has been with the Vancouver Canadians since 2007 and was appointed General Manager on September 5th, 2018, after spending the previous seven seasons as the organization's Assistant General Manager. Allan has led several departments during his tenure with the C's including the Nat Bailey Stadium Box Office and its ticket operations as well as his more recent efforts in Team Operations handling everything from player housing and travel right through to Information Technology (IT). Born in Victoria, B.C., and raised on the Lower Mainland's Sunshine Coast, Allan completed his education at McGill University while playing five seasons with the McGill Redbirds baseball program. Prior to university, Allan played for the North Shore Twins of the B.C. Premier League

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 9

STEPHANI ELLIS

ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER Returning for her ninth season with the Vancouver Canadians Stephani handles a wide variety of key organizational elements including Group Sales as well as the C's social media platforms. She was promoted to Assistant General Manager role prior to the 2019 season and was the recipient of the 2019 Northwest League Female Executive of the Year for her work with the C's.

After a standout collegiate softball career at California University of PA where Stephani played for the Vulcans and was named a Regional All-American, the Prince of Wales Secondary graduate and former Team BC member began her marketing career with the Canadians.

Stephani works in concert with group leaders who expect the Canadians to provide an excellent ballpark experience with each visit out at Nat Bailey Stadium.

BRENDA CHMILIAR

WALTER COSMAN

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES & MARKETING With more than 20 years of Sales & Marketing experience here in Vancouver, Walter decided to put those skills to work in the sport he's most passionate about, baseball.

With a B.A. from the University of New Brunswick, Walter has worked with Proctor & Gamble, Molson Canada, Granville Island Brewing and Steamworks Brewing. Walter was also General Manager of Petcurean leading a staff of more than 70 people. With a long-standing corporate partnership with the Canadians prior to his arrival in May of 2019, Walter joins our club fully aware of the standard that has put the C's among the best in Minor League Baseball

CHARLENE YAROSHUK

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER Brenda is entering her 16th season out at Nat Bailey Stadium but her second as Financial Controller for the Vancouver Canadians. She spent the first 10 years with Aramark Food Services in the company's financial division, dividing her time between at Nat Bailey Stadium and Rogers Arena.

Brenda is responsible for all aspects of the Vancouver Canadians financial operations. She is right at home here at Nat Bailey Stadium, as much of her childhood was spent playing baseball on the local fields in Kamloops

ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR Charlene is excited to be entering her fifth season with the Vancouver Canadians as their Accounting Coordinator. In 2020 she graduated from Kwantlen Polytechnic University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. Growing up in the Vancouver area she spent most of her free time practicing martial arts and currently has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

MANAGER OF TICKETING OPERATIONS Steven enters his fourth season with the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club, and his first as Manager of Ticket Operations.

MANAGER OF BROADCASTING & MEDIA RELATIONS Tyler joined the Canadians in 2021 and is now in his sixth season in the Blue Jays organization and ninth in MiLB. Before the C's, Tyler served as the Director of Promotions & Entertainment and Road Radio Broadcaster for the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Over the course of three seasons in Manchester, he oversaw the entire in-game presentation and promotions departments while traveling throughout the Eastern League calling 'Cats games. Tyler began his MiLB career in 2014 as a communications intern for the High-A Lake Elsinore Storm in Southern California and was promoted twice in three years.

STEVEN MAISEY

After graduating from Langara College with a diploma in Recreation Leadership Management, and interning for the Vancouver Whitecaps, Steven began his career with the Canadians on the operations side of the club, spending the two seasons (2018 – 19) as a member of the A&B Tools Rental Grounds Crew.

Steven transitioned into his current role as Manager of Ticket Operations in January 2020, and looks to maintain the service standards that fans have come to expect of the Canadians.

In the offseason, Steven volunteers his time as a skills coach for the Vancouver Thunderbirds Minor Hockey.

10 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

TYLER ZICKEL

The San Diego native earned his B.A. in English from Whittier College in Los Angeles, where he played on the Poets baseball team and was elected Student Body President. He and his fiancée Kate make their offseason home in Portland, OR with their dog Rosie.

Proud to support the

AVAILABLE ON THE CONCOURSE AND at THE 3RD BASE CRAFT ZONE

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 11

KENDRA CHIN

MARKETING COORDINATOR Kendra joins the C’s Marketing department for her first full season of baseball. She has recently completed a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with specialization in Marketing and Human Resource Management. Prior to joining the team at The Nat, she worked for several years in the health & fitness industry. Her goal is to intertwine her passion for sports with her business background. In her spare time, she coaches basketball to inner city kids. This Vancouverite also likes spending her free time playing basketball, tennis, golf, and skiing.

JACOB NAKHLEH

SALES COORDINATOR Jacob returns for his eighth season with the C’s and his second as Sales Associate. Joining the club for the 2016 season, Jacob began his time with the C’s in the Box Office, first as a Ticket Sales Representative, then as Box Office Assistant, with his transition to sales coming at the conclusion of the 2021 season.

Jacob graduated from the Edwards School of Business at the University of Saskatchewan in 2021 with a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance. When Jacob’s away from the Nat, you can find him watching Blue Jays baseball, Seahawks football, or, if he’s lucky, ice fishing in Saskatchewan.

OTHON DIAZ

SALES ASSOCIATE Othon is originally from Mexico and moved to Canada to earn his MBA. He has experience working in the marketing department of the Diablos Rojos del Mexico professional baseball team in the Mexican Baseball League.

Throughout his life, Othon has been involved in sports. He spent many years training and competing on an international level in sprint kayak where he won three Pan-American medals in 2014 and 2017.

In his free time, Othon helps coach the U16 & U18 canoe and kayak sprint team at False Creek Racing Canoe Club. He loves watching baseball games at Nat Bailey Stadium while enjoying some good tacos.

12 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

LEVI WEBER

HEAD GROUNDSKEEPER Levi is no stranger to the Northwest League, with prior experience with the Spokane Indians as their Head Groundskeeper at Avista Stadium. His talents have also allowed him to be the field manager for the Los Angeles Dodgers at the Spring Training Facility in Arizona.

The Colton, WA native graduated from Washington State University with a Double Major in Turfgrass Management and Fruit and Vegetable Management and two minors in Horticulture and Agricultural Systems.

In his time away from the ballpark, you can find him on the golf course, weight training or enjoying time with family and friends.

COOPER MISIC

SALES COORDINATOR Cooper is a former Langley Blaze pitcher, took his talents south of the border to play for both Galveston College and at Central Washington University. He graduated from CWU with a Sports Management degree with a specialization in Business.

Prior to joining the Canadians, he was a member of the Ground Crew at Northview Golf & Country Club.

LIAM GUERRIERO

SALES ASSOCIATE 2023 is Liam’s first season with the C’s as a Sales Associate. The 23-yearold graduated from Brock University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from their four-year program.

A native of Waterloo, Ontario, Liam grew up playing competitive hockey for the Waterloo Wolves. He loves playing and watching hockey, baseball, golf and football. He’s a fan of the Boston Bruins, Toronto Blue Jays, Cleveland Browns and Rory McIlroy.

BOX OFFICE ASSISTANT

BALLPARK AND STADIUM OPERATIONS

ZACH MAHAFFY

BROOKS PRIMO

CHRISTIAN WILSON

TRAVIS PORTER

GET IT ON

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 13

2023 PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE

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F D L O C ICE

T F A R C - LOC

R E E B H S RE

R E N R CO

E H T N ATED I

F E S A B D 3R

T R U O C D OO

PROUDLY SERVING

16 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

ROAD TO THE SHOW

The Canadians are a part of the Toronto Blue Jays organization. The C’s are a High A affiliate of the Blue Jays.

That means they are in the middle of the Toronto farm system, slightly higher than the Dunedin Blue Jays (Low A) and the Gulf Coast Blue Jays (Rookie). Baseball players work their way up through the organization in hopes of getting to the big leagues. Toronto is in the American League and pulls its talent from these teams.

TORONTO BLUE JAYS (MLB) | TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA (416) 341-1000 | BLUEJAYS.COM JOHN SCHNEIDER

DON MATTINGLY

MANAGER

MARK BUDZINSKI

LUIS RIVERA

FIRST BASE COACH

GIL KIM

DAVE HUDGENS

HITTING COACH

JEFF WARE

ASSISTANT HITTING COACH

DAVID HOWELL

ASSISTANT PITCHING COACH, BULLPEN ASSISTANT PITCHING COACH, STRATEGY

ADAM YUDELMAN

MAJOR LEAGUE HITTING STRATEGIST

GUILLERMO MARTINEZ

PITCHING COACH

HUNTER MENSE

THIRD BASE COACH

FIELD COORDINATOR

PETE WALKER

BENCH COACH

ALEX ANDREOPOULOS

MAJOR LEAGUE COACH

LUIS HURTADO

BULLPEN CATCHER

BULLPEN CATCHER

BUFFALO BISONS (AAA) | BUFFALO, NEW YORK (716) 846-2000 | BISONS.COM CASEY CANDAELE MANAGER

HITTING COACH

PITCHING COACH

TIM NORTON

CARSON PHILLIPS

CALEB DANIEL

JUSTIN BATCHER

ROSWELL DEL ROSARIO

KARA TERRY

ATHLETIC TRAINER

MATT HAGUE

ASST. STRENGTH COACH

STRENGTH COACH

JUSTIN ECHEVARRIA

BULLPEN COACH

JAKE MCGUIGGAN

COACH

DEVELOPMENT COACH

ROB DiBERNARDO

DIETITIAN

RYAN MORETTI

MENTAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANT

NEW HAMPSHIRE FISHER CATS (AA) | MANCHESTER, NEW HAMPSHIRE (603) 641-2005 | NHFISHERCATS.COM CESAR MARTIN

MITCH HUCKABAY HITTING COACH

PITCHING COACH

DREW HAYES

CHRIS SCHAEFFER

LUKE GREENE

CASEY CALLISON

GEOFF STALLMAN

RAUL PIMENTEL

MANAGER

ATHLETIC TRAINER

STRENGTH COACH

MATT VON ROEMER

COACH

DIETITIAN

DEVELOPMENT COACH

KEVIN MCCARTHY

MENTAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANT

VANCOUVER CANADIANS (HIGH A) | VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA (604) 872-5232 | CANADIANSBASEBALL.COM BRENT LAVALLEE MANAGER

DANIEL CANELLAS

RYAN WRIGHT

BENCH COACH

ROELVIS VARGAS

JOEL BONNETT

HITTING COACH

TOMMY LABRIOLA

ATHLETIC TRAINER

ASHLEY STEPHENSON

PITCHING COACH

YUKA SANUI

STRENGTH COACH

RAUL PIMENTEL

DIETITIAN

AUSTIN BIBENS-DIRKX

POSITION COACH

BULLPEN COACH

LUKE STATLER

MENTAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANT

DUNEDIN BLUE JAYS (LOW A) | DUNEDIN, FLORIDA (727) 733-9302 | DUNEDINBLUEJAYS.COM DONNIE MURPHY MANAGER

GEORGE CARROLL

MATT YOUNG

BENCH COACH

BRANDON HAMMERSTROM ATHLETIC TRAINER

CORY RIORDAN

HITTING COACH

ROSWELL DEL ROSARIO

GEOFF STALLMAN

S&C COACH

YOEL HERNANDEZ

PITCHING COACH

DIETITIAN

BULLPEN COACH

ERIKA MONSALVE

MENTAL PERFORMANCE COACH

PETR STRIBRCKY

DEVELOPMENT COACH

CARLOS POLANCO

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANT

GULF COAST BLUE JAYS GULF COAST LEAGUE (ROOKIE) | DUNEDIN, FLORIDA (727) 734-8007 JJOSE MAYORGA

PAUL ELLIOTT HITTING COACH

HITTING COACH

COREY HART

FRED LANDERS HITTING COACH

HITTING COACH

JAIME LEVER

ANTONIO CACERES

BRENDAN KELLY

DELTA CLEARY JR.

ASHLEY PONCE

DANIEL TUCKER

JON WOODWORTH

FRANK ESPOSITO

EDWIN ORTIZ

BRYAN ROSALES

MANAGER

PITCHING COACH

SYDNEY JENKINS S&C COACH

COACH

STRENGTH COACH

COACH

DIETITIAN

ASSISTANT COACH

ERIKA MONSALVE

MENTAL PERFORMANCE

ATHLETIC TRAINER COACH

PITCHING COACH

ATHLETIC TRAINER

STEVEN CARDONA

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANT

DOMINICAN SUMMER LEAGUE BLUE JAYS DOMINICAN SUMMER LEAGUE (DSL) | BOCA CHICA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC ANDY FERMIN

DEIFERSON BARRETO

RICARDO NANITA

ROBELIN BAUTISTA

JOSE MATEO

JAIR MORELOS

LUIS SILVA

ALAIN PACHECO

YSIDRO REYES

IMBEWER ALVAREZ

JOSEPH CARDONA

BRYAN ROSALES

ERIKA MONSALVE

ISIDRO LOPEZ

MANAGER

ATHLETIC TRAINER

COACH

ATHLETIC TRAINER

HITTING COACH

STRENGTH COACH

PITCHING COACH

STRENGTH COACH

COACH

DIETITIAN

COACH

MENTAL PERFORMANCE COACH

COACH

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANT

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 17

PITCHERS HT WT 15 Cooper Benson 6-0 220 21 Ryan Boyer 6-2 225 35 Ian Churchill 6-2 190 23 Michael Dominguez 5-10 180 16 Hunter Gregory 6-3 220 26 Devereaux Harrison 6-0 190 32 Ryan Jennings 6-0 190 9 Justin Kelly 6-1 195 25 Conor Larkin 6-1 205 30 Adam Macko 6-0 180 29 Abdiel Mendoza 5-11 195 12 Kevin Miranda 5-10 180 43 Eric Pardinho 5-10 190 4 Naswell Paulino 5-11 205 31 Sam Ryan 6-3 205 18 Rafael Sanchez 6-1 215 1 Dahian Santos 5-11 170 41 Matt Svanson 6-5 235 Anders Tolhurst 6-4 190 Geison Urbaez 6-1 180 CJ Van Eyk 6-1 198

B/T L/L R/R L/L R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R L/L R/R R/R R/R L/L R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R

DOB 8/3/00 5/4/97 2/28/99 8/17/00 11/16/98 11/8/00 6/23/99 12/2/98 3/17/99 12/30/00 9/19/98 11/14/98 1/5/01 4/17/00 9/22/98 8/22/99 2/26/03 1/31/99 9/13/99 7/05/00 9/15/98

HOMETOWN San Luis Obispo, CA Bradford, PA Santa Barbara, CA Tampa, FL Chesapeake, VA Vacaville, CA San Antonio, TX Salt Lake City, UT Royersford, PA Vancouver, BC Chitre, PAN Dolega, PAN Bastos, Sao Paulo, BR San Cristobal, DR Clifton, VA Antilla, Cuba Acarigua, VZ Lake Zurich, IL Santee, CA Cabral, DR Tampa, FL

CATCHERS HT WT 19 Jommer Hernandez 5-11 185 36 Lyle Lin 6-1 200 20 Kekai Rios 5-10 205

B/T R/R R/R R/R

DOB 10/20/00 6/26/97 6/06/97

HOMETOWN Puerto Plata, DR Taipei, Taiwan Kaneohe, HI

OUTFIELDERS 6 Dasan Brown 5 Devonte Brown 11 Gabby Martinez 35 Garrett Spain

B/T R/R R/R R/R L/R

DOB 9/25/01 10/15/99 7/24/02 9/21/00

HOMETOWN Oakville, ON Newnan, GA Maracaibo, VZ Clarksville, TN

INFIELDERS HT WT B/T DOB HOMETOWN 27 Alex De Jesus 6-2 185 R/R 3/22/02 Santo Domingo, DR 7 Cade Doughty 6-1 200 R/R 3/26/01 Denham Springs, LA 8 Josh Kasevich 6-1 205 R/R 1/17/01 Palo Alto, CA 14 Estiven Machado 5-10 180 S/R 10/4/02 Barlovento, VZ 22 Ryan McCarty 5-9 182 R/R 4/22/1999 Yardley, PA 28 Michael Turconi 5-11 185 L/R 6/24/99 Beaver Falls, PA 40 Peyton Williams 6-5 255 L/L 9/14/00 Des Moines, IA HT WT 6-0 185 5-10 210 6-0 175 6-0 185

MANAGER: 33 Brent Lavallee BENCH COACH: 24 Danny Canellas PITCHING COACH: 20 Joel Bonnett HITTING COACH: 12 Ryan Wright

‘22 CLUBS FCL, Dunedin DUN, VAN, NH Dunedin Dunedin, Vancouver Vancouver College, DUN, VAN Dunedin Dunedin, Vancouver Dunedin, Vancouver Everett (SEA) Vancouver Did Not Play Dunedin, Vancouver Vancouver Dunedin, Vancouver DSL, FCL, Dunedin Dunedin, Vancouver Dunedin, Vancouver FCL, Dunedin Dunedin, New Hampshire Vancouver

‘22 CLUBS Dunedin, Vancouver Hillsboro, Amarillo, Reno Great Lakes, Tulsa

ACQUIRED 17th, ’21, Arizona State FA, 1/27/22 10th Rd, ’22, San Diego 15th Rd, ’19, Jefferson HS (FL) 8th Rd, ’21, Old Dominion 9th Rd, ’22, Long Beach State 4th Rd, ’22, Louisiana Tech ND FA, 7/21/21 9th Rd, ’21, Penn State Trade (SEA), 11/16/22 Waivers (TEX), 12/8/21 INT FA, 8/4/22 INT FA, 7/2/17 INT FA, 7/4/16 12th Rd, ’19, VCU INT FA, 5/13/22 INT FA, 7/2/19 13th Rd, ’21, Lehigh 23rd Rd, ’19, Grossmont College NT FA, 10/14/20 2nd Rd, ’20, Florida State

‘22 CLUBS Great Lakes (LAD), Vancouver College, Dunedin College, Dunedin Dunedin Dunedin College, Dunedin, Vancouver Dunedin ‘22 CLUBS Dunedin, Vancouver Dunedin Dunedin, Vancouver Vancouver

POS. PLAYER COACH: 2 Ashley Stephenson BULLPEN COACH: 38 Austin Bibens-Dirkx ATHLETIC TRAINER: Roelvis Vargas STRENGTH & CONDITIONING: Tommy LaBriola

ACQUIRED MiLB FA, 9/8/21 MiLB FA, 4/10/23 Waivers 03/27/2003

ACQUIRED Trade (LAD), 8/2/22 2nd (CB), ’22, Louisiana State 2nd Rd, ’22, Oregon INT FA, 7/3/19 FA, 7/26/22 15th Rd, ’22, Wake Forest 7th Rd, ’22, Iowa

ACQUIRED 3rd Rd, ’19, Abbey Park HS (ON) NDFA, 7/26/22 INT FA, 7/24/18 15th Rd, ’21, Austin Peay State

DIETITIAN: Yuka Sanui MENTAL COACH: Raul Pimentel TECH ASSISTANT: Luke Statler

PRONUNCIATIONS Devereaux – dev-er-row | Abdiel – AWB-d-yell | Pardinho – par-DEEN-yo | Naswell – NAZ-well | Dahian – dye-ANNE Jommer – JOE-murr | Doughty – dough-tee | Kasevitch – KASS-uh-vitch | Estiven – ESS-tuh-vin | Rainer – RAIN-er Turconi – turk-OH-knee | Dasan – duh-SAWN | Devonte – de-VON-tay | Lavallee – luh-VALLEY | Cañellas – kuh-NAY-yus Stephenson - Stevenson | Bibens-Dirkx – BIB-ins DURKS | Roelvis – row-ELVIS | Labriola – LAB-ree-ola Yuka Sanui – YOO-kah sa-NEW-ee

18 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

# PITCHERS POS HT WT 29 ALCANTARA, Raul LHP 6-0 170 20 ALFORD, Peyton LHP 6-0 190 48 BAYLESS, Jarod RHP 6-3 225 33 CARLSON, Sam RHP 6-4 195 21 CURVELO, Luis RHP 6-1 210 50 DAVILA, Nick RHP 6-3 200 16 ELLIOTT, Tim RHP 6-1 200 15 HILL, Kyle RHP 5-11 200 45 HUNTER, Leon RHP 6-3 230 40 JOYCE, Jimmy RHP 6-2 210 10 KINGSBURY, Jimmy RHP 6-1 190 14 MARTINEZ, Bernie RHP 6-0 195 27 NUNEZ, Kelvin RHP 6-1 180 36 RINEHART, Logan RHP 6-3 185 37 SADLER, Casey RHP 6-3 225 39 SCHAEFFER, Brandon LHP 6-2 195 38 VANSCOTER, Reid LHP 6-0 190 32 WILLRODT, Matt RHP 6-4 220

BIRTHDATE 01/22/01 08/15/97 12/29/96 12/03/98 10/21/00 11/21/98 10/11/97 05/12/97 03/17/97 01/13/99 02/13/99 12/24/96 12/10/99 09/21/97 07/13/90 02/11/00 11/25/98 10/19/97

HOMETOWN PREVIOUS TEAM(S) ACQUIRED YEAR San Juan De La Maguana, DR Modesto (A) – 2022 NDFA 2017 Powell, TN Everett (A+) – 2022 NDFA 2021 Texarkana, TX Modesto (A) – 2022 33rd Round 2019 Savage, MN Modesto (A) – 2022 2nd Round 2017 Higuerote, Venezuela Everett (A+) – 2022 NDFA 2018 Pembroke Pines, FL Tacoma (AAA) – 2023 MiLB Free Agent 2023 Loganville, GA Everett (A+) – 2022 4th Round 2019 Corpus Christi, TX Everett (A+) – 2022 10th Round 2019 Garner, NC Tacoma (AAA) – 2023 TRADE (TEX) 2021 Wantagh, NY Everett (A+) – 2022 16th Round 2021 Valley Forge, PA Modesto (A) – 2022 17th round 2021 Laredo, TX Everett (A+) – 2022 NDFA 2019 Bonao, DR Everett (A+) – 2022 NDFA 2017 Rancho Cucamonga, CA Everett (A+) – 2022 16th Round 2019 Stillwater, OK ACL Mariners (R) – 2023 WAIVERS (CHI-N) 2020 Auburn, PA Modesto (A) – 2023 18th Round 2022 Livonia, NY Coastal Carolina University 5th Round 2022 Humble, TX Everett (A+) – 2022 15th Round 2018

# INFIELDERS 6 PARKER, James 11 RAMBUSCH, Blake 13 RAMIREZ, Ben 1 SALVATORE, Mike 5 SANCHEZ, Axel 25 WINDISH, Hogan 9 YOUNG, Cole

BIRTHDATE 03/26/00 08/31/99 12/02/98 12/27/96 12/10/02 05/10/99 07/29/03

HOMETOWN Anderson, SC Austin, TX Chula Vista, CA Ewing, NJ Navarette, DR Jefferson, NC Pittsburgh, PA

# CATCHERS 18 FORD, Harry 30 MILLER, Andrew

B-T HT WT BIRTHDATE HOMETOWN R-R 5-10 200 02/21/03 Kennesaw, GA R-R 6-3 230 09/02/97 Frisco, TX

B-T R-R R-R L-R R-R R-R R-R L-R

HT 6-1 5-9 6-3 6-0 6-0 6-1 6-0

WT 200 175 210 185 170 220 180

PREVIOUS TEAM(S) Modesto (A) – 2022 Modesto (A) – 2023

PREVIOUS TEAM(S) Everett (A+) – 2022 ACL Mariners (R) – 2022 Everett (A+) – 2022 Everett (A+) – 2022 Modesto (A) – 2022 Modesto (A) – 2022 Modesto (A) – 2023

# OUTFIELDERS B-T HT WT BIRTHDATE HOMETOWN PREVIOUS TEAM(S) 8 BEDNAR, Randy R-L 5-11 200 11/30/98 Bethesda, MD Modesto (A) – 2022 17 LABRADA, Victor L-L 5-9 165 01/16/00 Havana, Cuba Everett (A+) – 2022 4 GONZALEZ, Gabriel R-R 5-10 165 01/04/04 Guaraunos Sucre Venezuela Modesto (A) – 2023 23 STOCK, Erik R-R 6-2 210 12/30/98 Virginia Beach, VA University of Connecticut

MANAGER: 12 Ryan Scott HITTING COACH: 50 Michael Fransoso PITCHING Coach: 22 Cameron Ming COACH: 2 Sergio Plasencia COACH: 7 MJ Rookard TRAINER: Dan Laberry Trainer: Stephanie McLain STRENGTH & CONDITIONING: Drew Weidner QUALITY CONTROL/VIDEO COORDINATOR: Marlin Lagesse

ACQUIRED 1st Round NDFA

ACQUIRED 8th Round 15th Round 13th Round 9th Round NDFA 7th Round 1st Round

ACQUIRED NDFA INT’L FA NDFA NDFA

YEAR 2021 2022

YEAR 2021 2022 2021 2019 2019 2022 2022

YEAR 2021 2021 2021 2022

PRONUNCIATIONS Raul Altantara (al-kaan-tr-uh), Randy Bednar (BED-narr), Nick Davila (DAH-vee-luh), Blake Rambusch (RAM-bush), Brandon Schaeffer (SHAY-fer), Reid VanScoter (van-SCOOTER), Matt Willrodt (WILL-rod), Hogan Windish (WIN-dish)

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 19

THURsdays at the NAt

THURSDAYS

PLUS SCRATCH & WIN GIVEAWAY FIRST 1,000 FANS. MUST BE 19+ TO PLAY PRESENTED BY BCLC

Who will win the race?

1

2

3

4

CanadiansBaseball.com/Contests 20 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

5

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 21

FIELD STAFF

BRENT

LAVALLEE

33 CANELLAS

MANAGER • Entering his second year as Manager in Vancouver, coming off a 67-62 campaign...

Served as a Manager for the first time in 2021 while with the FCL Blue Jays...

Played at LSU Shreveport until 2009 and joined their coaching staff as a Graduate Assistant in 2010...Started as a full-time assistant in 2012 and was named the Head Coach in 2016...In three years, his teams produced with an overall record of 12657 and claimed the last two conference championships.

• The North Delta, British Columbia, native played for LSU for five seaons, including a medical redshirt campaign...Played a total of 200 games and earned 2009 1st Team All-Canada while runner up for Canadian College Baseball Player of the Year.

22 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

DANNY

24 BONNETT

BENCH COACH • The 28-year-old is taking on a Bench Coach position for the first time...Entering his fourth season as a coach...Spent 2022 with Single-A Dunedin as a Position Coach...Served in the same capacity for Vancouver from 2019-2021.

• The former catcher and relief pitcher played Rookie-level baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2014 and 2015...He also signed as a free agent with the Blue Jays on October 9, 2017 and was assigned to the Gulf Coast League, Lansing, and Dunedin at various parts during the 2018 season.

JOEL

20

PITCHING COACH • Entering his second year in professional baseball and his first as a Pitching Coach, having spent the 2022 season as Bullpen Coach with High-A Vancouver...Started as a Pitching Coach at The University of Illinois Springfield and worked in the same role at Southwest Minnesota State University, Hendrix College, and Benedictine University.

• The native of Springfield, IL, played four seasons at NCAA III North Park University, spending time as both a starter and a closer...Finished his career 7th all-time in appearances (23) and 4th all-time in saves (7)...Was an all-conference second team honoree as a senior 2012, while in 2010 he earned the Rawlings/American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) All-Central Region Gold Glove Award.

RYAN

WRIGHT

12 STEPHENSON

HITTING COACH • Made his Minor League coaching debut in 2021, in his current role, after his debut with Class-A Lansing was cancelled in 2020...Began his coaching career at Capital High School in Boise, ID, from 2015-2016...

Was a Graduate Assistant at California State University Northridge in 2016...

Joined the organization from Montana State University Billings where he was on staff since 2017... Served as the Hitting Coach & Recruiting Coordinator at MSUB...

Has also managed the Spearfish Sasquatch Baseball Club in Spearfish, SD (20182019), and the Kelowna Falcons Baseball Club in Kelowna, BC (2019).

• Played collegiately at the University of Utah, Treasure Valley Community College, and Oklahoma City University.

ASHLEY

2 BIBENS-DIRKX

POSITION COACH • 2023 is Ashley’s first season with the Blue Jays...Follows Jaime (Vieira) Lever as the second female coach in the organization...Coached with the Canadian Women’s National Team since 2018, leading to a Bronze medal at the COPABE Women’s Pan-American Championships in 2019, and was the first woman to manage the Women’s National Team when Canada played against USA in Thunder Bay in 2022...Was also the first woman to coach in the Canadian Futures Showcase, hosted by the Blue Jays baseball academy in Ottawa last year...Made history in November as she became the first woman to capture Baseball Canada’s Lionel Ruhr Elite Coach of the Year Award.

AUSTIN

38

BULLPEN COACH • Officially retired in January and is entering his first year in professional baseball as a coach, taking on Bullpen Coach for Vancouver.

• The native of Salem, OR, was selected out of the University of Portland by the Seattle Mariners in the 16th round of the 2006 draft...Eventually reached the Majors for 37 games while with Texas in 2017 and 2018...Has also pitched in the Venezuelan Winter League, the Dominican Winter League, the Mexican League, and the Chinese Professional Baseball League.

• Was an original member of the Women’s National Team in 2004 and played for 15 years...Won four Women’s Baseball World Cup medals (three bronze, one silver), and a silver at the Pan American Games in 2015.

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 23

24 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

2023 ROSTER

HUNTER

GREGORY PITCHER

MACKO PITCHER

BENSON PITCHER

DEVEREAUX PITCHER

RYAN

ABDIEL

PITCHER

PITCHER

RYAN

PITCHER

IAN

MICHAEL

PITCHER

PITCHER

32 KELLY

9 LARKIN

KEVIN

PITCHER

HT: 6-2 WT: 190 B/T: L/L DOB: 2/28/99 HOMETOWN: Santa Barbara,CA ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin ACQUIRED: 10th Rd, 22, San Diego

JUSTIN

HT: 6-0 WT: 190 B/T: R/R DOB: 6/23/99 HOMETOWN: San Antonio, TX ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin ACQUIRED: 4th Rd, ’22, Louisiana Tech

29 MIRNADA

HT: 5-11 WT: 195 B/T: R/R DOB: 9/19/98 HOMETOWN: Chitre, PAN ’22 CLUBS: Vancouver ACQUIRED: Waivers (TEX), 12/8/21

21 CHRUCHILL 35 DOMINGUEZ 23

HT: 6-2 WT: 225 B/T: R/R DOB: 5/4/97 HOMETOWN: Bradford, PA ’22 CLUBS: College, DUN, VAN, NH ACQUIRED: FA, 1/27/22

26 JENNINGS

HT: 6-0 WT: 190 B/T: R/R DOB: 11/8/00 HOMETOWN: Vacaville, CA ’22 CLUBS: College, DUN, VAN ACQUIRED: 9th Rd, ’22, Long Beach State

30 MENDOZA

HT: 6-0 WT: 180 B/T: L/L DOB: 12/30/00 HOMETOWN: Vauxhall, AB ’22 CLUBS: Everett (SEA) ACQUIRED: Trade (SEA), 11/16/22

15 BOYER

HT: 6-0 WT: 210 B/T: L/L DOB: 8/3/00 HOMETOWN: San Luis Obispo, CA ’22 CLUBS: FCL, Dunedin ACQUIRED: 17th, ’21, Arizona State

16 HARRISON

HT: 6-3 WT: 220 B/T: R/R DOB: 11/16/98 HOMETOWN: Chesapeake, VA ’22 CLUBS: Vancouver ACQUIRED: 8th Rd, ’21, Old Dominion

ADAM

COOPER

PITCHER

HT: 5-10 WT: 180 B/T: R/R DOB: 11/14/98 HOMETOWN: Dolega, PAN ’22 CLUBS: Did Not Play ACQUIRED: INT FA, 8/4/22

CONOR

HT: 6-1 WT: 195 B/T: R/R DOB: 12/2/98 HOMETOWN: West Jordan, UT ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: ND FA, 7/21/21

17 PARDINHO ERIC

PITCHER

HT: 5-10 WT: 180 B/T: R/R DOB: 8/17/00 HOMETOWN: Tampa, FL ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: 15th Rd, ’19, Jefferson HS (FL)

PITCHER

HT: 6-1 WT: 205 B/T: R/R DOB: 3/17/99 HOMETOWN: Royersford, PA ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: 9th Rd, ’21, Penn State

43 PAULINO NASWELL

HT: 5-10 WT: 190 B/T: R/R DOB: 1/5/01 HOMETOWN: Bastos, Sao Paulo, BR ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: INT FA, 7/2/17

25

PITCHER

4

HT: 5-11 WT: 205 B/T: L/L DOB: 4/17/00 HOMETOWN: San Cristobal, DR ’22 CLUBS: Vancouver ACQUIRED: INT FA, 7/4/16

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 25

SAM

RYAN

PITCHER

31 SANCHEZ RAFAEL

HT: 6-3 WT: 205 B/T: R/R DOB: 9/22/98 HOMETOWN: Clifton, VA ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: 12th Rd, ’19, VCU

PITCHER

18 SANTOS DAHIAN

HT: 6-1 WT: 215 B/T: R/R DOB: 08/22/99 HOMETOWN: Antilla, Cuba ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: INT FA, 5/13/22

PITCHER

CJ

JOMMER

PITCHER

PITCHER

CATCHER

VAN EYK

HT: 6-1 WT: 180 B/T: R/R DOB: 07/05/00 HOMETOWN: Cabral, DR ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, New Hampshire ACQUIRED: INT FA, 10/14/20

ALEX

DE JESUS INFIELDER

27 DOUGHTY

HT: 6-2 WT: 185 B/T: R/R DOB: 3/22/02 HOMETOWN: Santo Domingo, DR ’22 CLUBS: Great Lakes (LAD), Vancouver ACQUIRED: Trade (LAD), 8/2/22

HERNANDEZ

HT: 6-1 WT: 198 B/T: R/R DOB: 09/15/1998 HOMETOWN: Tampa, FL ’22 CLUBS: DNP ACQUIRED: 2nd Rd, '20, Florida State

CADE

INFIELDER

7 KASEVITCH JOSH

INFIELDER

LYLE

ANDERS

ESTIVEN

INFIELDER

PITCHER

KEKAI CATCHER

20

HT: 5-10 WT: 205 B/T: R/R DOB: 6/06/97 HOMETOWN: Kaneohe, HI ’22 CLUBS: Great Lakes, Tulsa ACQUIRED: Waivers 03/27/2003

14 McCARTY

HT: 5-10 WT: 180 B/T: S/R DOB: 10/4/02 HOMETOWN: Barlovento, VZ ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin ACQUIRED: INT FA, 7/3/19

36

HT: 6-4 WT: 190 B/T: R/R DOB: 09/13/99 HOMETOWN: Santee, CA ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin ACQUIRED: 23rd Rd, ’19, Grossmont College

36 RIOS

HT: 6-1 WT: 200 B/T: R/R DOB: 6/26/97 HOMETOWN: Taipei, Taiwan ’22 CLUBS: Hillsboro, Amarillo, Reno ACQUIRED: MiLB FA, 4/10/23

8 MACHADO

HT: 6-1 WT: 205 B/T: R/R DOB: 1/17/01 HOMETOWN: Palo Alto, CA ’22 CLUBS: College, Dunedin ACQUIRED: 2nd Rd, ’22, Oregon

41 TOLHURST

HT: 6-5 WT: 235 B/T: R/R DOB: 1/31/99 HOMETOWN: Lake Zurich, IL ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: 13th Rd, ’21, Lehigh

19 LIN

HT: 5-11 WT: 185 B/T: R/R DOB: 10/20/00 HOMETOWN: Puerto Plata, DR ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: MiLB FA, 9/8/21

HT: 6-1 WT: 200 B/T: R/R DOB: 3/26/01 HOMETOWN: Denham Springs, LA ’22 CLUBS: College, Dunedin ACQUIRED: 2nd (CB), ’22, Louisiana State

26 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

MATT

HT: 5-11 WT: 170 B/T: R/R DOB: 2/26/03 HOMETOWN: Acarigua, VZ ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: INT FA, 7/2/19

GEISON

URBAEZ

1 SVANSON

RYAN

INFIELDER

22

HT: 5-9 WT: 182 B/T: R/R DOB: 4/22/1999 HOMETOWN: Yardley, PA ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin ACQUIRED: FA, 7/26/22

MICHAEL

TURCONI INFIELDER

28 WILLIAMS PEYTON

HT: 5-11 WT: 185 B/T: L/R DOB: 6/24/99 HOMETOWN: Beaver Falls, PA ’22 CLUBS: College, Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: 15th Rd, ’22, Wake Forest

GARRETT

SPAIN

OUTFIELDER

OUTFIELDER

40 BROWN

HT: 6-5 WT: 255 B/T: L/L DOB: 9/14/00 HOMETOWN: Des Moines, IA ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin ACQUIRED: 7th Rd, ’22, Iowa

13 VARGAS

HT: 6-0 WT: 185 B/T: L/R DOB: 9/21/00 HOMETOWN: Clarksville, TN ’22 CLUBS: Vancouver ACQUIRED: 15th Rd, ’21, Austin Peay State

OUTFIELDER

6 BROWN

HT: 6-0 WT: 185 B/T: R/R DOB: 9/25/01 HOMETOWN: Oakville, ON ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: 3rd Rd, ’19, Abbey Park HS (ON)

DEVONTE

OUTFIELDER

HT: 5-10 WT: 210 B/T: R/R DOB: 10/15/99 HOMETOWN: Hinesville, GA ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin ACQUIRED: NDFA, 7/26/22

5 MARTINEZ GABBY

OUTFIELDER

TOMMY

YUKA

RAUL

ATHLETIC TRAINER

STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

DIETITIAN

MENTAL COACH

JESSE

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANT

CLUBHOUSE MANAGER

LaBRIOLA

SANUI

11

HT: 6-0 WT: 175 B/T: R/R DOB: 7/24/02 HOMETOWN: Maracaibo, VZ ’22 CLUBS: Dunedin, Vancouver ACQUIRED: INT FA, 7/24/18

ROELVIS

LUKE

STATLER

DASAN

PIMENTEL

MENDEZ

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 27

28 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

RAV4 Trail

2023 RAV4 LE AWD MSRP

35,635

$

*

Prices includes additional fees. Taxes extra.

Contact your local dealer, or visit ShopToyota.ca

PACIFIC TOYOTA DEALERS

*Includes MSRP plus freight and PDI, A/C charge, Tire Levy and retailer administration fees.See toyota.ca for complete details. In the event of any discrepancy or inconsistency between Toyota prices, rates and/or other information contained on shoptoyota.ca and that contained on toyota.ca, the latter shall prevail. Errors and omissions excepted. Lease or finance offers based on new and previously unregistered 2023 RAV4.

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 29

CANADIANS TO REACH THE MAJOR LEAGUES The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club has welcomed more than 800 players onto its rosters since 2000. That’s a lot of

guys all striving to one day reach the bright lights of the Major Leagues. Here is a list of every one of our players who has arrived at the game’s highest stage and play in Major League Baseball.

2003 POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

2010

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

2018

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

Rich Harden Neal Cotts Mike Wood 2004

P P P

2001 2001 2001

21-Jul 12-Aug 21-Aug

Oakland Chicago (AL) Oakland

A.J. Griffin Alexi Ogando 2011

P P

2010 2004

24-Jun 15-Jul

Oakland Texas

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

POS C'S ALUMNI

Santiago Casilla Nick Swisher Joe Blanton 2005

P OF P

09-Aug Oakland 03-Sep Oakland 24-Sep Oakland

Justin Sellers Anthony Recker Corey Brown 2012

INF C OF

12-Aug Los Angeles (NL) 25-Aug Oakland 06-Sep Washington

2014 2014 2009 2013 2014 2014 2011

26-Jun 18-Aug 27-Aug 30-Aug 01-Sep 05-Sep 26-Sep

Toronto Toronto Toronto Detroit Toronto Toronto Toronto

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

Ryan Borucki Justin Shafer Murphy Smith Dawel Lugo Jose Fernandez Jonathan Davis Jon Berti 2019

2002 2001 2003 2000 2002

04-Apr 27-May 31-Jul 30-Aug 17-Sep

Kansas City Oakland Colorado Oakland Milwaukee

21-Apr Oakland 05-Jun Oakland 30-Aug Oakland

MLB DEBUT

INF INF INF INF OF

P P P

POS C'S ALUMNI

Mark Teahen Dan Johnson Omar Quintanilla Freddie Bynum Nelson Cruz 2006

Pedro Figueroa Sean Doolittle Dan Straily 2013

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

John Rheinecker Andre Either Chris Mabeus Kurt Suzuki Jason Windsor Jeremy Brown Mark Kiger 2007

P OF P C P C INF

2001 2003 2001 2004 2004 2002 2002

22-Apr 02-May 29-May 12-Jun 17-Jul 03-Sep 13-Oct

Texas Los Angeles (NL) Milwaukee Oakland Oakland Oakland Oakland

Ian Krol Kevin Pillar Max Stassi Michael Choice 2014

P OF C OF

2009 2011 2009 2010

05-Jun 14-Aug 20-Aug 02-Sep

Washington Toronto Houston Oakland

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

P P P OF P

23-Mar 04-May 23-Jul 02-Sep 05-Sep

Arizona Toronto Toronto Toronto Toronto

Travis Buck OF Jared Burton P Danny Putman OF Dallas Braden P Connor Robertson P Marshal McDougall INF Kevin Melillo INF Bill Murphy P 2008 POS

2005 2002 2004 2004 2004 2000 2004 2002

02-Apr 04-Apr 23-Apr 24-Apr 17-May 05-Jun 24-Jun 03-Sep

Oakland Cincinnati Oakland Oakland Oakland Texas Oakland Arizona

Bo Schultz Marcus Stroman Aaron Sanchez Dalton Pompey Daniel Norris 2015

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

Miguel Castro P Roberto Osuna P Noah Syndergaard P Justin Nicolino P Dusty Coleman INF David Rollins P 2016 POS

2014 2012 2011 2011 2008 2011

06-Apr 08-Apr 12-May 20-Jun 03-Jul 04-Jul

Toronto Toronto New York (NL) Miami Kansas City Seattle

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

C'S ALUMNI

Gregorio Petit John Baker Jeff Gray 2009

INF C P

2004 2002 2005

18-May Oakland 09-Jul Florida 08-Sep Oakland

Andy Burns Matt Dermody 2017

INF P

2011 2013

09-May Toronto 03-Sep Toronto

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

Andrew Bailey Landon Powell Tommy Everidge Brad Kilby Jeff Baisley

P C INF P INF

06-Apr 11-Apr 28-Jul 02-Sep 09-Sep

Oakland Oakland Oakland Oakland Oakland

Dwight Smith Jr. Seth Frankoff Ian Parmley Franklin Barreto Taylor Cole Tim Mayza Jairo Labourt Carlos Ramirez Richard Urena Tim Locastro

OF P OF INF P P P P INF INF

18-May 09-Jun 23-Jun 24-Jun 09-Aug 15-Aug 01-Sep 01-Sep 01-Sep 29-Sep

Toronto Chicago (NL) Toronto Oakland Toronto Toronto Detroit Toronto Toronto Los Angeles (NL)

2002 2002 2002

2006 2004 2004 2005 2005

30 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

2005 2005 2007 2007 2007 2009

2009 2012 2011 2012 2012

2012 2010 2013 2014 2012 2014 2014 2012 2014 2014

TEAM

P P P INF P OF INF

TEAM

John Schneider MGR 2011/14-15 28-Mar Travis Bergen P 2015-17 29-Mar Cavan Biggio INF 2016 25-May T.J. Zeuch 2016 03-Sep Lane Thomas OF 2015 17-Apr Ryan McBroom INF/OF 2014 03-Sep 2020 POS C'S MLB

Toronto San Francisco Toronto Toronto St. Louis Kansas City

ALUMNI

DEBUT

Nate Pearson Dany Jiménez Patrick Murhpy Ángel Perdomo 2021

P P P P

29-Jul 23-Jul 18-Sep 18-Aug

Toronto San Francisco Toronto Milwaukee

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

Josh Palacios Alek Manoah Riley Adams Tayler Saucedo Nick Allgeyer Otto López 2022

OF P C P P INF

09-Apr 27-May 08-Jun 17-Jun 02-Jul 17-Aug

Toronto Toronto Toronto Toronto Toronto Toronto

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

Zach Jackson Zach Logue Christian Lopes Vinny Capra Danny Young Josh Winckowski Jake Fishman 2023

P P INF INF P P P

9-April 19-April 20-April 1-May 9-May 28-May 31-July

Oakland Oakland Oakland Toronto Seattle Boston Marlins

POS C'S ALUMNI

MLB DEBUT

TEAM

Samad Taylor Spencer Horwitz

INF OF

18-Jun 19-Jun

Kansas City Toronto

2017 2017 2016 2015 2016 2019 2018 2015 2018 2018 2016 2017 2012 2018 2015 2018 2017 2017 2019

TEAM

Supporting local charities in our community APRIL 12

APRIL 26

MAY 10

SUPPORTING

SUPPORTING

JUNE 14

MAY 31

SUPPORTING

JUNE 28

SUPPORTING

JULY 26

SUPPORTING

SUPPORTING

SUPPORTING

AUGUST 9

AUGUST 23

AUGUST 30

SUPPORTING

SUPPORTING

SUPPORTING

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 31

HOW TO SCORE A BASEBALL GAME Different fans have different methods of keeping a scorecard, and many use their own notations. But here's a simple method:

If a runner scores, put a circle at the bottom of the box, and inside the circle put the symbol of the play and/or the player that drove him in. For example, if the No. 5 hitter drives in two runs with a single, mark his single in the bottom right of his box and mark a circle with the number "5" in the boxes of the runners who score (Some people like to use uniform numbers here, so you can tell who did what, even after lineup changes).

For example, If the hitter grounds out to shortstop, for example, write in "6-3," which shows the shortstop threw him out at first base. If the hitter flies out to left field, write a "7."

If the batter gets a hit, write in the hit according to which base he reached. Each corner of the box represents a base, with the lowerright corner being first.

At the end of each inning, total the hits and runs for that inning only. At the end of the game you'll be able to add the innings total to get the game score.

If he singles, put a "-" in the lower right. If he doubles, write a "=" in the upper right, and so on. For a walk, use "BB" in the lower right. As the runner advances, mark the appropriate symbol in the appropriate corner.

EXAMPLE SCOREBOARD

1ST INNING 1. SINGLED, ADVANCED ON NEXT BATTER'S WALK, TOOK 3RD ON FIELDER'S CHOICE, SCOREO ON NO. 4 BATTER'S DOUBLE 2. WALKED, LATER FORCED OUT, SHORTSTOP TO SECOND BASE 3. REACHED ON FIELDER'S CHOICE, ADVANCED TO 3RD ON NEXT BATTER'S DOUBLE, SCORED ON NO. 5 BATTER'S SINGLE 4. DOUBLED, SCORED ON NO. 5 BATTER'S SINGLE 5. SINGLED, ADVANCED TO 2ND ON NEXT BATTER'S SINGLE, STOLE 3RD BASE, THROWN OUT ON GROUNDER, SHORTSTOP TO CATCHER 6. SINGLED, STOLE 2ND BASE 7. REACHED 1ST ON FIELDER’S CHOICE 8. POPPED OUT TO 2ND BASE 2ND INNING 9. LEADOFF WITH DOUBLE 1. FLIED OUT TO CENTERFIELD 2. POPPED OUT TO SHORTSTOP 3. STRUCKOUT SWINGING

TEAM BATTING ORDER

SYMBOLS FOR PLAY

1

3 2

Single: S or – Double: D or = Triple: T or = Homerun: HR or =

2

1. CENTER FIELDER 8 4 6-4 6 2. SHORTSTOP BB 3 3. 1ST BASEMAN 5 FC K = 4. 3RD BASEMAN 5 SB 2 5. RIGHT FIELDER 6-2 SB 6. LEFT FIELDER 7. DESIGNATED HITTER FC 8. 2ND BASEMAN 4 / 9. CATCHER = R H 3 4 0 1 TOTALS

Passed Ball: PB Stolen Base: SB Double Play: DP Error: E Sacrifice Fly: SF

Sacrifice: SH or SAC Walk: BB Strikeout: K

Intentional Walk: Foul Fly: Force Out: Line Drive:

Called Out on Strikes: K Balk: BK Fielder’s Choice: FC Hit by Pitch: HP Wild Pitch: WP

IBB F FO L

Bunt: B Unassisted: U

DEFENSIVE PLAYERS BY THE NUMBERS 1 PITCHER 2 CATCHER 3 1ST BASEMAN 4 2ND BASEMAN 5 3RD BASEMAN 6 7 8 9

SHORTSTOP LEFT FIELDER CENTER FIELDER RIGHT FIELDER

8 7

9

6 5

4 1

3

BASIC UMPIRE SIGNS FOR THE PLAYERS AND FANS Umpires use a number of signals. Some of these are familiar and are associated with the Rules of Baseball, like safe, out, foul, etc. These are a few you are likely to see when scoring a game.

FOUL TIP

DOUBLE

TRAPPED BALL/SAFE

DELAYED DEAD BALL

TIME/DEAD BALL

COUNT

HOLD UP PLAY

HOME RUN

PLAY BALL

INFIELD FLY

FAIR BALL

FOUL BALL

STRIKE OUT

32 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

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BY BEN STEINER / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK STEFFENS

2,937 kilometres split Toronto and San Cristobal in the Dominican Republic. Yet, for Vancouver Canadians pitcher Naswell Paulino, the distance was insignificant.

STEINER STORIES:

NASWELL PAULINO

Paulino, 22, remembers 2015 and watching the Toronto Blue Jays from his home in the Dominican when fellow countryman Jose Bautista fired a home run in the bottom of the seventh inning in the 2015 ALDS against the Texas Rangers. From then, Paulino didn’t just want to make pro baseball; he wanted to join the Blue Jays.

“I’ve played baseball since I was five years old, and so playing professionally is something I had dreamed of all my life,” he said. “In 2015, the Blue Jays were my favourite team because they had a lot of Dominican players. So for me, the bat flip was special -- I have a t-shirt with the picture on it.”

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 35

In 2023, Paulino is enjoying a successful campaign with the Vancouver Canadians, competing in his third North American season with the Blue Jays organization after playing with the Low-A Dunedin Blue Jays in 2021 and the C’s in 2022.

Nine months after the Blue Jays passed the Rangers and fell to the Kansas City Royals in the 2015 ALCS, Blue Jays’ Vice President, International Scouting & Baseball Operations, Andrew Tinnish, visited the Dominican Republic. When he lay eyes on Paulinho, then an outfielder, he saw the potential for the mound.

While Paulino, then 16, had never pitched, he switched to the position and hasn’t looked back since. Tinnish liked what he saw.

Paulino began taking baseball seriously at 14, trying out for some of the top developmental programs in the country. At that point, he moved into the city to push his game to the next level. He was in an academy, training every day, away from his family, who were miles away.

At 16 years old, on an ordinary day, as he approached batting practice, Tinnish asked him to throw a bullpen session. A few hours later, there was an opportunity with the Blue Jays, as Paulino put pen to paper with the MLB organization.

“I was smiling the whole time,” he said.

He played pro in 2017 in the Dominican Summer League. In 2018; however, the 5’11” right-hander sat out the season due to a suspension. Returning in 2019, Paulino split the year between the now-defunct Bluefield Blue Jays and then High-A Lansing.

For most, playing in the DSL is a massive achievement. There is similar branding to major league clubs, and it is the most apparent pathway to the major leagues outside of the United States.

“Back home, you feel like it's the big leagues,” Paulinho said of a season where he made the DSL All-Star team. “Everyone is looking at you because you play with the Blue Jays.”

When he moved to the U.S.A. in 2019, there were many challenges.

Although baseball was a familiar aspect in the first season, and many of his minor league teammates spoke Spanish, the move wasn’t simple. He was far from the life he knew, living in a foreign country and fighting to learn the language as quickly as possible.

“I didn’t know very good English, so it was hard,” he said of the move. “It was different every day too. In the Dominican, you always eat rice and chicken, and here you eat many different things, which was difficult.”

As he sits in the sun-soaked seats of Nat Bailey Stadium ahead of a June game which he isn’t scheduled to play, Paulino feels right at home, despite being farther than he has ever been from where he grew up.

While Nat Bailey Stadium may be over 4,000 kilometres away from Downtown Toronto’s Rogers Centre, just having the Blue Jays patch on his sleeve means a lot to Paulino, who looks to one day stare down a batter where Bautista once thrived.

“First, there was a lot of rain when I got here, but the people are very welcoming, and the support at the stadium and in the city is cool,” he said.

“This is the best in the league; the other teams get 500 people, and we always get at least 2,000, even on a Tuesday.”

36 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 37

38 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

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IAN CHU 40 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

BY NIALL O’DONOHOE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK STEFFENS

2023 Canadians pitcher Ian Churchill makes his way to the mound in the latest instalment of C’s Chat.

Churchill’s journey to pro ball started in his hometown of Santa Barbara, California where he attended San Marco High School. Striking out 156 batters and posting an earned run average of 2.51 over three years, Churchill earned first-team All-Conference honours in his senior season.

Churchill attended Santa Barbara City College in 2018 and struck out 65 batters in 66 innings but he really found his stride in summer college ball. He went 7-0 with a 1.55 ERA and had a strikeout-walk total of 44-9 in 40-2/3 innings for the Mat-Su Miners. He was named an Alaska League All-Star and was rated as that circuit’s fourth-best prospect by Baseball America, citing “his feel for pitching and ability to generate swings and misses without electric stuff is what impressed evaluators the most”.

That was the springboard to a banner 2019 season as Churchill won eight of 10 decisions with a 1.96 ERA and one save for the Vaqueros after striking out 98 batters and walking 27 in 82-2/3 innings. That led to Churchill taking home CCCAA (California Community College Athletic Association) Pitcher of the Year award and receiving ABCA (American Baseball Coaches Association) All-America, All-State and AllSouthern California honours.

The 2020 season saw Churchill head to Tucson, Arizona join the Arizona Wildcats where he struck out 15 batters over 11-2/3 innings to go along with a 3.09 ERA before the season was cut short by the pandemic. In 2021, Churchill pitched just 13-2/3 innings and struck out 12 batters. He threw a shutout inning against Mississippi in the NCAA Tucson Super Regional and got to pitch against Stanford in the College World Series.

URCHILL

It was back to California for Churchill in 2022 as he transferred to the University of San Diego. He went 3-2 with a 4.17 ERA, a 57-12 K/BB total and four saves in 54 innings for the Toreros. That included six no-hit innings of relief against Loyola Marymount on April 14 and four shutout innings against Vanderbilt over two appearances in the Corvallis Regional on June 3 and 5.

An All-WCC (West Coast Conference) Second-Team All-Star, Churchill got the attention of Toronto Blue Jays scout Jim Lentine and the Jays wound up selecting the lefty in the 10th round of the 2022 MLB Draft.

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 41

Churchill’s pro debut came in Dunedin as he struck out a batter in a shutout inning against Tampa on August 10. His next outing saw him contribute a perfect frame in Dunedin’s no-hit effort against Tampa on August 14. The first professional win for Churchill was in Bradenton on August 26 as he stranded a runner and struck out three over 1-2/3 scoreless innings. Other highlights were two whiffs over 2-2/3 innings in Tampa on August 30, back-to-back four strikeout appearances including 2-1/3 shutout stanzas in Palm Beach on September 10. In the postseason, Churchill earned a hold in Game 1 of the Florida State League final against St. Lucie on September 18. For the year, Churchill posted a microscopic ERA and WHIP of 0.75 and 0.92 respectively over 12 innings, striking out 18 and walking five.

It was back to the Florida State League for Churchill in 2023 and that was bad news for opposing batters who hit just .162 against him. He struck out two over two shutout innings for a win at Palm Beach on April 19 and racked up three more whiffs and two spotless stanzas for another victory against the Cardinals on April 23. That was part of a scoreless April who struck out 12 hitters and walked five over 9-1/3 innings that month. Churchill’s record improved to 3-0 when he punched out five batters at Tampa on May 18. He ended his Dunedin tenure with seven scoreless appearances with a 15-3 K/BB mark in 11 innings.

That convinced the Blue Jays brass to promote Churchill to Vancouver on June 10 and he made his debut on June 13 by striking out 2022 Golden Spikes Award winner Ivan Melendez in a perfect frame to finish off a win against Hillsboro. His next outing at the Nat was on June 16 as he stranded two inherited runners and struck out one over 1-1/3 scoreless innings in an eventual victory against the Hops. He hung another zero and struck out a batter to complete a win at Eugene on June 22.

C’s Plus Baseball caught up with Churchill during the team’s homestand against Hillsboro in mid-June. This interview has been edited for clarity.

C’s Plus Baseball – You’re from California. Did you have a favourite major league team or player growing up?

Ian Churchill – My Dad was a really big Dodgers fan growing up. Believe it or not, I didn’t watch much baseball growing up. I was a huge skateboarder and was really into that. And then once I did start watching baseball, I was more (into) just my favourite players. I loved watching Clayton Kershaw. I loved watching C.C. Sabathia and all these other great lefty starters.

CPB – How did you get started in baseball?

IC – It was one of those things where I always played it growing up and it was funny because I can’t tell you how many times I probably told my Dad I wanted to quit. I did Little League and everything like that. I never made an all-star team or anything like that.

I played right field, and batted pretty low in the lineup. Wasn’t a whole lot for me. It wasn’t a whole lot of love to want to go to the field and stuff like that. But I kind of stuck with it and I think it was around early like high school. I remember I just started just getting better and I think I just started hitting puberty. And I just started getting into it and started to really fall in love with baseball and stuff like that. And it just kind of took off from there

42 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

and I think I got into it a little late. So I ended up going to junior college.

CPB – As far as skateboarding goes, has that helped you as far as baseball goes?

IC – Gosh, I don’t know. Maybe. Believe it or not, I wasn’t even a good skateboarder. It was just one of those things I always did with my buddies and stuff like that. I skateboarded. I did like BMX. I used to even do downhill longboarding where we had, you know, you had the gloves and you had these pucks on your hands. And I’d go down mountains at like probably upwards to like 60 miles an hour for some reason. I don’t know why I did it. But I wanted to do whatever and I wanted to hang out with my friends. And then one day, everyone starts getting pretty serious about baseball so I decided to too. And that’s just kind of how it happened.

CPB – You go to junior college in Santa Barbara. What was that experience like?

IC – It was awesome. I was really kind of in between where I wanted to go. For most of high school, I don’t even think I thought college baseball was even like an option. I’d always thought I was just going to follow in my brother’s footsteps and go to school.

And we have a sheet metal shop in downtown Santa Barbara. And I just thought I was going to do that. And I still remember I had a coach come up to me one day and was like, ‘Hey, you know, you got a shot playing in college. You should go do it.’ And my junior college coach reached out to me. I went and toured and watched a game. And I was like, ‘Yeah, I want to go and do this.’ So I decided to go there and get to stay at home as well. Stay home and kind of figure it out and decide what I want to do.

CPB – You eventually transferred to Arizona, and go to a College World Series. What was that like being in Arizona?

IC – It was awesome. Arizona was great. I played with some really great players and stuff that are still playing. And it was awesome.

Had the whole COVID experience, which kind of blew, but I made the most of it. And to be able to go to the College World Series is pretty awesome with that team. And we had some good games, playing against Vanderbilt, you know, at a night game and having my family be there and stuff was awesome. And then being able to get on the mound and stuff. Omaha was a pretty awesome experience. I feel like I’m pretty lucky to be able to say that I was able to go and do that and participate in that so it was awesome.

CPB – There are a couple of Arizona State guys (with the C’s) in Lyle Lin and Cooper Benson. Is there a bit of a rivalry there?

IC – No, those guys are awesome. Pretty great guys. I haven’t really felt the competitive rivalry or anything like that. It’s cool.

CPB – You eventually transferred to San Diego. Why did you decide to go there?

IC – After I got my bachelor’s degree, I was ready to go and get my master’s and I think I was kind of ready to step away from baseball after that. And I wanted to just kind of get a start on the rest of my life. And I thought San Diego was closer to home and I could kind of finish out that last year, have my family be there and just be surrounded by the family that I also had in San Diego. So it just seemed like a perfect opportunity. And yeah, I just kind of went there and kept going and fell in love with San Diego. I mean, how can you not? And I ended up having the chance to keep on playing.

CPB – And things went really well with the Toreros so much so that you get drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays. Were you expecting that at all?

IC – No, I thought the only way I was going to get drafted was if the planets aligned and the Pope said a special prayer for me.

So yeah, I ended up getting super lucky and that happened. But it was awesome, it was really cool. And to be able to share that with my family and all my coaches. Everyone was super excited for me. I think the Blue Jays were really kind of the only team that really talked to me. I sat down with (scout Jim Lentine) in a Starbucks for like three hours and we just talked baseball. And he had an awesome experience of playing. He really just talked about how awesome the Blue Jays organization was. I was sold not only because I just wanted to play, but because it sounded awesome.

And then draft day came around. I got a phone call from him and said yes and it just kind of ended up working out. It was awesome.

CPB – You report to Dunedin and they put you through a draft camp. Did that help you get used to the rigours of pro ball?

IC – Yeah, it was awesome. I think at first, obviously you’re kind of looking around and you’re wondering, like ‘Oh, how’s this going to go? Who are all these guys and stuff?’ I feel like the draft class I was in was an awesome group and we all got along immediately.

And draft camp was awesome because all the staff and coaches were so nice.

‘Where does this work for you and this and that? And let’s get you settled in before we send you out.’ So it was pretty nice to know that someone was there basically to say, ‘Hey, you know, we have your back and welcome to family’ and stuff like that. And that was really cool. I really enjoyed draft camp and just being able to meet everyone and then being able to come back during spring training and see everyone again. And I had already kind of made some of those relationships. That was awesome.

CPB – Take us what a typical day at draft camp was like.

IC – It felt like it was kind of a new thing every day. One day it was like, ‘Hey, wake up.’ You know? Then it was, ‘Get some breakfast’.

They take us through kind of a warm-up thing and then we’ll throw and get introduced to a lifting block or something and how we do it all. And we’ll have a meeting kind of going over, ‘Hey, this is what pro ball entails’ or ‘This is something to look out for when you’re playing this and that. Here’s a couple of cues and stuff like that. So it was cool. We were able to get a little road map on something that’s going to happen that you might not expect, but they can give you just a little bit of a heads up. That was nice.

So it was awesome. They did a really good job of kind of preparing the guys for what was to come.

CPB – I’m sure you meet a whole bunch of people when you’re down in Dunedin at first, kind of getting used to everything and everyone. Was there anybody who stood out to you?

IC – Mental coach John Lannan. The guy is just the man. I had a lot of great conversations with him. Just a couple of like-minded individuals. Kind of one of those guys that you want in your foxhole, so to speak. So he’s the man. I liked him a lot. And we were in contact and stuff a lot when he was in Dunedin. He really helped with the transition. And maybe in some of those times when things aren’t going great, he was always there for a laugh or to give you a hug if you needed it. So he’s a guy that means a

lot to me.

CPB – When the draft class arrives, things really turn around for the Dunedin Blue Jays as you go all the way to the finals. Talk about that first pro experience and getting to go on that special run.

IC – That was awesome. It was cool. I think it was just to get a lot of guys coming from college that might even be coming off playoffs of their own. It was cool. Just a lot of guys that were eager to play, eager to win. And I think we brought a lot of good energy to that clubhouse. And it was cool to kind of keep going on that run and kind of fell short at the end. But I think we all knew that we kind of gave it our all. And it was kind of one of those things where the ending just happened to be, ‘Hey, that’s just baseball.’ It plays out. Nobody’s fault or anything like that. But it was great. I mean, a great first pro ball experience for sure.

CPB – Was there anything you worked on specifically in the offseason?

IC – I think for me it was just trying to be to see what are all these pro guys do. I think I was just shocked at looking at a lot of these guys and being like, ‘Dang, these guys are all big dudes that are strong. They move fast.’ And it’s like I might have a good arm and stuff, but there are a lot of things I need to work on. So I tried working on getting a little stronger, a little faster. On the pitching side, I tried working on my slider and stuff like that. So it’s kind of one of my goals is to get that a little better. And I feel like I finally cracked that a little bit and I’m throwing that in games now and just kind of overall doing that. And I think also even in the offseason, just kind of resting. And then I was trying to work on finishing up some school, getting my finish my masters.

CPB – Your pitch mix right now, what is it that you are throwing?

IC – Fastball, change up, slider.

CPB – Fastball, four-seam or two seam?

IC – Four-seam. It just moves a lot because I’m left handed.

CPB – I read something that I think it’s through Baseball America.

Their initial scouting report was your fastball is in the low 90s.

But here (in your first outing with the C’s), you’re up to 93, 95.

When did you pick up those extra couple of ticks of velocity? Was it a gradual thing?

IC – I think it was just kind of a gradual thing. Shout out to the boys in Dunedin. We were all trying to gain a couple of ticks. We were just trying to figure out what we could do. And it made a pretty great environment of just trying to chuck a baseball as hard as we could during catch play and stuff. Running and pulling down and stuff like that. And lifting heavy weights and just trying to get psyched up. So I think doing that after a while, we just kind of slowly built up some stuff. So I think a lot of those guys are starting to throw harder over there too, which is cool.

CPB – As far as the slider goes, did anyone teach you a grip or did you figure it out yourself?

IC – Man, spring training was actually kind of tough. I felt like I was working on a new grip every day or week. And it was always trying to find something new and I just couldn’t find anything that clicked. Then when I got into the season, I just kind of was like, ‘Whatever.’ And I went back to fastball and changeup and was having some success.

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 43

44 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

But then my coach (Cory Riordan) just kind of sat me down and was like, ‘You need to throw it.’ So I worked on it and I finally found something that I wanted. I’ve been throwing it in games and it’s been working.

CPB – The changeup, circle change or split change?

IC – I guess you could say it’s kind of like a circle change. I don’t put a circle or anything. I kind of keep my fingers apart.

It’s kind of weird.

CPB – It’s not like a Kevin Gausman special?

IC – No, no. I wish. But no, I haven’t got that one in the bag just yet.

CPB – Spring training, your first one. What was that experience like for you?

IC – It was awesome. It was kind of cool to just be around all these guys. It was all these guys that you hear stories about and stuff. Or guys that already had friendships and stuff and they talked about. I didn’t get to meet them when I was in Dunedin. So it was cool that I got to meet some great guys and met some of the guys on the team here and stuff like that. So that helped because it made the transition here a lot easier.

CPB – In Dunedin, you had a 0.00 ERA for the month of April. And then your last seven appearances with the D-Jays were scoreless. What was the key to your success?

IC – I think just trusting my stuff. I think knowing that I had the stuff to go out there and get guys out. Towards the last couple of outings that I had there too, I just kind of knew that again, the slider.

Just knowing that ‘Hey, there’s a good one in there somewhere.’ You just got to go out and throw it. So I’m hoping I can just kind of carry that over here and keep that same mindset.

CPB – You get the call to Vancouver. How did you find out?

IC – We were in Bradenton. I had gotten done with the game. Just kind of getting ready to hop in the shower. I got told to put a shirt on and go in the manager’s office. I sat down, the manager (Donnie Murphy) told me I’m coming up here. He just said, ‘Go and do what you’re doing here. I’m sure you’ll have some success.’ It was awesome. A lot of friends and stuff were really happy for me there.

CPB – So it was pretty straightforward. No joking around?

IC – No. I think there wasn’t too much joking. I think we’d actually lost that night so it was kind of just, ‘Hey, come in, get it over with. Get out of my office’.

CPB – I did see you in Everett on the weekend (Saturday, June 10). So it was the Saturday when you first arrived?

IC – Yeah, I came on Saturday. Six-hour flight, an Uber and I made it. I think I was in my hotel room for like half an hour and then I came to the field. So pretty tired, but yeah, I was ready to go for Sunday if needed. It was cool to meet with the team there. It was actually great. My assistant pitching coach in Arizona (Cameron Ming) is the pitching coach right now for the Everett AquaSox. So I just kind of showed up and I was like, ‘Hey, surprise!’ He was like, ‘Hey.’ I mean, he didn’t even know I was still playing baseball. So he was like, ‘Are you coaching?’ I was like, ‘I’m not that old!’ Yeah, so it was awesome. It was cool. And to be able to call my family and stuff and tell them I was going there is great. Actually, it sucked because they were planning a trip to Dunedin and they couldn’t get their money back from the Airbnb. So they’re actually going there.

They’re going to hang out in Dunedin.

Good thing Dunedin is a good spot still so they’re going to go have fun there.

CPB – You got to pitch here (Tuesday, June 13). What was the experience like getting your first experience at the Nat under your belt?

IC – A little chilly. A little chilly than Florida.

No, but it was great. I mean, obviously tons of fans and stuff like that and exciting. So it’s cool. Just got warmed up and went in and not too many nerves luckily but it was cool. And then to have a good win like that was awesome to be a part of that.

CPB – Final question. The Canadians have five different uniforms. Black, red, white, gray, and the classic blue. I don’t know if you’ve seen them yet, but do you have a favourite one of the bunch?

IC – Ooh, I’ve only worn the red and black so far. So I feel like it’s not fair for me to comment on that yet. I think the blue ones look really, really cool. But right now I think the black ones are also really cool too. I wore that (Tuesday, June 13) so I like that one a lot too.

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 45

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Vancouver Sun. Covering what matters.

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vancouversun.com/canadians VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 49

BY LINA SETAGHIAN

MEET OUR MASCOTS The Vancouver Canadians have an army of mascots that are all designed with one common goal – ensure everyone out at historic Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium has fun! From a loveable bear to a trio of sushi that are ready to rock – not to mention a condiment and utensil? The Canadians mascots are truly one of a kind!

BOB BROWN BEAR

CHEF WASABI

MS. BC ROLL

MR. KAPPA MAKI

SADAHARU SOY

CHOP N’ STIX

Debut: 2007 Occupation: Canadians’ official mascot Favourite Pastime: Meeting fans, giving high fives and hugs, posing for photos About BBB: Makes more than 150 local community appearances every year and named after Vancouver’s Mr. Baseball, Bob Brown who dedicated his whole life to the game we love so dearly.

Debut: 2008 Occupation: Staying cool, Professional Racer Favourite Pastime: Attending birthday parties, winning races Make-Up: Few slices of cucumber wrapped in rice and then rolled in a piece of dried seaweed. Sleek and light - Mr. Kappa Maki is always a tough competitor.

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Debut: 2008 Occupation: Chef, professional racer Favourite Pastime: Running, cooking Make-Up: Whether you buy wasabi in root form or as a green powder, there is one thing that is for sure - Chef Wasabi is one spicy addition to our Sushi Race!

Debut: 2015 Occupation: Pot Stirrer, Professional Racer Favourite Pastime: Cooking, meeting fans, running Make-Up: Known to add a little saltiness to any meal, Sadaharu Soy was named after the legendary baseball slugger Sadaharu Oh who’s legend is global. Sadaharu is both physical and a little trickly during the sushi races!

Debut: 2008 Occupation: Pageant queen, professional racer Favourite Pastime: Beating Chef Wasabi in Sushi Races and hanging out at the ballpark Make-Up: Combination of barbecue BC smoked salmon and fresh cucumber with a little mayonnaise to keep her rollin'.

Debut: 2018 Occupation: Hand Tools, Professional Racers Favourite Pastimes: Helping people, racing Make-Up: Renewable, reusable and environmentally friendly! Chop & Stix come to the ballpark to keep the peace between the super competitive sushi and sauce.

Connected at the top, Chop & Stix have a few challenges to iron out during the race – but they always get an A for effort.

——— Family Fun Sunday ———

JULY 30

Pennant Giveaway FIRST 500 KIDS 12 & UNDER

BASEBALL WORD SEARCH

BASEBALL CROSSWORD PUZZLE 1

2

3

4

5

CATCH THE FLY BALL

7

6

START

8

9

10

BAG BALL BATTER BEAN BENCH BULLPEN BUNT CHARGE CLEANUP COUNT CURVE DECK DIAMOND DOUBLE DRIVE DUGOUT

FINISH

CONNECT THE DOTS 3 2

4 30

1

5

31

6 7

29 28

33

26

32 27

24

8

RUN SACRIFICE SAVE SCORE SECOND SINKER SLIDE SPITBALL SPLITFINGER STRETCH STRIKE THIRD WALK WILD WINDUP WORLDSERIES

NAME THE MLB TEAM

25

40

ERROR FIELD FIRST FLY FORCE FOUL GLOVE GROUNDER HIT HOME LINED MOUND OUT PITCH PLATE POPUP

CAN YOU NAME THE TEAM BY ONLY SEEING A PART OF THEIR LOGO?

23 34

9

11

12

13

ACROSS 1. Baseball players are usually safe here 5. Leather object worn on hand to catch baseballs 6. Metal or wooden object used to hit the ball 7. Hat worn by baseball players 8. A ball hit out of bounds 10. Player who throws the ball over homeplate 13. The area between the three bases and home plate DOWN 1. A game played on a diamond 2. A baseball game has nine such divisions 3. Catches the ball thrown by the pitcher 4. The area of the field furthest from the batter and outside the diamond 9. Calls strikes and balls 11. Group of people playing a game 12. When a player can run around all the bases on just one hit

KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL!

39

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22

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21

10 11

20 15

16

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13

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BASEBALL WORD JUMBLE 1.

LALBSEAB

2. EOBULD 4. TARETB 4. ELVGO 5. AICDAANSN 6. LTESA

CAN YOU SPOT 5 DIFFERENCES

WHICH TWO ARE EXACTLY ALIKE? 1

2

3

4

5

6

7. ORROWABBNBBE 8. OMCPHNAIS 9. HIPTRCE 10. DILESR

52 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

JUMBLE ANSWERS: 1. Baseball 2. Double 3. Batter 4. Glove 5. Canadians 6. Steal 7. Bob Brown Bear 8. Champions 9. Pitcher 10. Slider BASEBALL MATCH: 2 & 6 LOGO ANSWERS (L-R): Orioles; Brewers; Mets; Phillies; Tigers; Angels; Reds; Cubs; Braves; Yankees; Royals; Astros; Athletics; Mariners; Blue Jays; Twins; Red Sox; White Sox; Indians; Rockies; Cardinals; Pirates; Giants; Padres; Rays; Marlins; Nationals; Diamondbacks; Dodgers; Rangers CROSSWROD ANSWERS (Across) 1. Base 5.Mitt 6. Bat 7. Cap 8. Foul 10. Pitcher 13. Diamond (Down) 1. Baseball 2. Inning 3. Catcher 4. Outfield 9. Umpire 11. Team 12. Homerun

KIDS FUN PAGE

KIE T EA

M

∙ VANCO

r

OO

IANS ∙ AD

ER CAN V U

HEY KIDS! CHECK OUT THE

2023 ROOKIE TEAM JOIN TODAY!

ONLY 99 $

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Vancouver Canadians drawstring bag and bag tag • Exclusive Rookie Team Member adjustable cap • Reserved Grandstand ticket to all Sunday and Tuesday home games, based on availability (22 games) • Sunday Fast Pass – front of the line privileges to all A&W Family Fun Sunday Post-game Run the Bases • 15% discount at the C’s Team Store • Family Packs are available for the 2023 Season VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 53

Baseball BC is the recognized governing body for baseball in British Columbia.

Through its programs and leadership, Baseball BC in cooperation with its affiliates, supports the development of baseball and aspirations of its members, by offering activities that are non-discriminatory and value-based.

To learn more about playing baseball in your neighbourhood contact Baseball BC

www.baseball.bc.ca 604-586-3310

Baseball BC is proud to present the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Buddies Program, where a youth baseball team gets to take a position on-field for the National Anthems.

Reserve your team’s spot by calling the Vancouver Canadians at 604-872-5232.

PACIFIC TOYOTA DEALERS

VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 55

——— Family Fun Sunday ———

AUGUST 13

Fanny Pack

Giveaway FIRST 1,000 FANS

56 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023

T A H D R A H + Y A W A GIVE FRIDAY, AUG 11

Gates Open at Noon. First Pitch 1:05 BUY TICKETS VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023 / 57

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

APRIL 7

JUNE 29

JULY 14

JULY 15

GET TICKETS

GET TICKETS

GET TICKETS

GET TICKETS

SATURDAY

SATURDAY

SATURDAY

SATURDAY

JULY 29

AUG 12

AUG 26

SEPT 2

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GET TICKETS

GET TICKETS

GET TICKETS

58 / VANCOUVER CANADIANS 2023