San Benito rolls to 6-1 victory over visiting Salinas behind
ace’s masterful performance
Breyon Canez didn’t even realize at the time what he had accomplished. After the most dominant performance in his decorated San Benito career, Canez was surprised to learn from Haybaler head coach Michael Luna that he had held visiting Salinas to one hit in his team’s 6-1 victory yesterday..
“I didn’t even realize I had a one hitter until coach told me at the end of the game,” said Canez, a returning First Team Tri-County Athletic League selection. ”
The senior lefthander befuddled Cowboys batters all afternoon, striking out seven in his 87-pitch outing.
The ‘Balers’ offense gave Canez all he needed to work with in the bottom of the first inning. Second baseman Karson Klauer hit a two-out double and was promptly driven in by shortstop Sky Valenzuela. After catcher Travis Ross walked, sophomore Brian Haggett followed with a two-run double to put San Benito (7-2) in front 3-0.
But on this day, the biggest story was Canez.
“That was a big-time performance by a big-time player,” said Luna. “We needed that. We needed to come back after a disappointing loss to Gilroy [on Monday].”
After helping the ‘Balers improve to 3-1 in the TCAL, Canez spoke of his mindset on the hill.
“I was just focused,” said Canez, who allowed only a second-inning single. “I was just trying to hit my spots and get my location.”
