Brian Backland Photography 

By Ryan Eakin

MIDHURST, ON - Ten to go.

The Barrie Baycats defeated the Burlington Herd 8-0 on Thursday evening to take a 1-0 series lead in their best-of-five quarter-final series.

Baycats starter Frank Garces recorded the victory, tossing a complete game performance while giving up zero earned runs on four hits and two base on balls, while striking out twelve batters along the way.

Baycats third basemen Jordan Castaldo led the way at the plate, going three-for-three with two base on balls.

Herd starter Chris Boatto took the loss, tossing five and two-thirds of an inning while giving up four earned runs on nine hits and four base on balls, while striking out three batters along the way.

BURLINGTON - 0-4-3

BARRIE - 8-12-0

QUOTES FROM THE GAME...

"For me, it just felt like another game," said Garces through Baycats designated hitter Branfy Infante. "Whether it's a regular season game or a playoff game, I just go out there and try to dominate with my fastball while mixing in other pitches."

"I felt focused tonight," said Garces on his brilliant game one performance. "I knew the Herd are a good hitting team but I felt good with all of my pitches tonight, so I was able to go out there and pitch to my abilities."

"I feel comfortable pitching because I know how good our lineup is," said the former San Diego Padre. "I know we can hit, so if I allow no runs, our offense will reward me, and if I allow a couple of runs, our offense will get them back, so I always feel comfortable on the mound."

Game two of this quarter-final series takes place Saturday evening in Burlington.