Minor Leagues Beat Writer
Chicago Sports Online
Monclova, Mexico – The Monclova Aqua Sox were eliminated from the Spike Nolan League playoffs on Wednesday.
Ogden took the first game at Monclova 7-6, but Monclova bounced back in Game 2 to win 1-0 in an 11-inning thriller. CF Jason Smart doubled in the top of the 11th and then was singled home by Catcher Carlos Martinez for the only run of the game.
In the final game of the series, Ogden left no doubt as they overwhelmed the Sox 15-5 to take the game and advance to the next round of the playoffs.
Although it was a disappointing end to the year, Monclova fans were treated to an exciting season and saw their Aqua Sox finish with a 45-23 record and snag a wildcard spot to make the postseason for the first time since 2031. That appearance ended an 11-year playoff drought.
“We didn’t end up accomplishing everything we’d hoped, but we did make the playoffs and finished with an excellent record,” said first-year manager Luis Perez. “We’re looking forward to going deeper into the playoffs next year.”