The Thunder Bay Border Cats started their 2026 campaign on a high note, taking down the Waterloo Bucks 11-9 on the road.

The Cats survived a barnburner final inning that saw 9 runs scored between the two teams.

Eight of our nine hitters reached base, with a standout performance from left fielder Lincoln Pack who went 2-4 with a walk and drove in a run.

Four pitchers took the mound. Rookie Carson Small had the best outing, lasting four innings as the starter and allowing only three hits. Closer Makaio Cisneros got the save despite giving up five runs, starting the season with a 36.00 ERA that will surely fall soon.

Defensively, Thunder Bay committed four errors in a sloppy outing. They’ll aim to shake off the early-season rust when they face Waterloo again Tuesday night.

The Border Cats home opener is scheduled for 7:05 pm Friday, complete with a post-game fireworks show.