So when Bryce Crosbie -- the first batter of the game for the Canadians -- walked, stole second and eventually came around to score the game’s first run, that would be enough to get the job done.
Holoien would scatter five hits while striking out 11 as the Canadians would take a 3-0 win over the Gordon Hawks in Rambler Park Fastball League action at Lyle Helland Ball Diamond on Tuesday night.
The warm weather saw the ball flying out of the park in the opening contest of the evening, as the Moose Jaw Giants and Earl Grey would hit five home runs between them on their way to Earl Grey’s 10-3 mercy-rule win.
Canadians 3, Gordon 0
The Hawks looked to have a chance to tie the game in the fourth inning, when Jayden Isaac reached on a one-out single and went to second on a wild pitch before attempting to score on a single to centre field by Les George.
Riley Almasi would be up to the task, though, gunning the throw home to catcher Joel Jordison, who would tag out Isaac at the plate.
That close call needed a reply, and the Canadians got it in their half of the inning: Holoien hit a lead-off double and Dane Roy promptly followed with a two-run home run to extend the lead to 3-0.
George would take the loss, giving up five hits and striking out 11.
Earl Grey 10, Giants 3
The Giants simply didn’t have an answer for Earl Grey’s Jason Kid at the plate, as he’d put up a 3-for-3 night that included a double, home run and four runs batted in.
One of those round-trippers came in the second as part of a five-run inning that put the visitors ahead 7-1. Drew Wilde also had a two-run shot in the frame.
Kevin Knelson, Joe MacDonald and Darryl Callaghan all hit solo home runs for Moose Jaw.
Al Muhle got the start for the Giants and gave up nine runs on 11 hits and five strikeouts before Derek Ross closed things out in fifth.
Devin Kress held the Giants to three runs on four hits to earn the win.
