The Brantford Red Sox are off the mark in the 2025 Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) season, securing their first win with a commanding 8-1 victory over the Guelph Royals on Sunday afternoon at Arnold Anderson Stadium.
Left-hander Pedro De Los Santos was stellar in his first start of the season, giving up just one run on four hits over a dominant outing that included eight strikeouts and only two walks. The performance builds on his strong relief showing last week and sets the tone for what Brantford hopes is a season-defining stretch of games.
The Red Sox capitalized on Guelph’s defensive miscues, scoring eight runs on just six hits. Nick Burdett led the way with two RBI, while Ethan Paulos added two hits and an RBI. Lucas Bateman, Noah Roberts, and Tim Holyk also contributed with runs driven in. The Sox improved to 1-2 and will aim to build on that momentum as they enter a three-game stretch in as many days.
Brantford travels to Kitchener on Thursday, May 22, for a 7:30 p.m. matchup against the Panthers at Jack Couch Park. Kitchener has proven tough at home, and the Red Sox rotation will need to contain a potent Panthers lineup. Outfielder Ethan Paulos, who’s hitting .667 so far this season, remains a key offensive weapon for Brantford. If the game is close late, the battle of the bullpens could prove decisive.
On Friday, May 23, the Sox return to Arnold Anderson Stadium to face the Toronto Maple Leafs at 8:00 p.m. The game is part of Brantford’s “Reverse Tariffs” initiative, offering free admission for all fans. A strong home crowd is expected, and Brantford hopes to harness that energy in a marquee showdown that will feature Toronto pitcher Ayami Sato, the first woman to play in a Canadian men’s pro league. Infielder Max Schmarder, steady defensively, will look to break out at the plate.
The week wraps up Saturday night in Chatham-Kent, where the Red Sox face the Barnstormers at 7:05 p.m. at Fergie Jenkins Field. Known for their aggressive base running, Chatham-Kent will test Brantford’s defensive discipline. With fatigue a possible factor after back-to-back games, the depth and reliability of the Red Sox bullpen could determine the outcome.
After a slow start, Brantford appears to be finding its rhythm. With strong pitching, timely hitting, and a schedule packed with early tests, this upcoming stretch could prove pivotal. A successful week would not only improve their standing but also build confidence for the long road to the IBL playoffs.
The Red Sox continue to emphasize a team-first, resilient approach as they chase a return to postseason relevance.
