The 4 Nations Cup burst into action Thursday night in Saskatoon, Canada, delivering opening night excitement with towering home runs and walk-off heroics.
Canada Powers Past Japan 3-1
The host nation made an early statement, defeating Japan behind Quentin Bruce‘s spectacular third-inning blast. The 29-year-old outfielder’s three-run homer was a monstrous shot to center field that cleared both fences, providing all the offense Canada would need.
Devon McCullough earned the victory on the mound, with Justin Schofield pitching in relief. The Canadian duo held Japan to just one hit in a dominant performance.
New Zealand Stages Dramatic Comeback Over USA 4-3
The nightcap belonged to pure drama as New Zealand overcame a 3-0 deficit to stun the United States in walk-off fashion.
The Americans built their lead behind strong pitching from Marco Diaz (three scoreless innings) and Cody Gibbons (two more). But New Zealand’s Thomas Enoka had other plans.
Enoka sparked the comeback with a two-run double in the sixth inning, cutting the deficit to 3-2. In the seventh, needing a home run to complete the cycle, he instead delivered his fourth hit of the game—a two-run walk-off winner, finishing the night with 4 hits in 4 at bats and 4 RBI. Not a bad opening act.
Looking Ahead
On opening night, Canada showed they can combine power hitting with quality pitching at home, while New Zealand demonstrated championship-level resilience.
The four teams in the event swap opponents on Day 2 (Night 2). The two 0-1 teams, Japan and the USA, square off in the 6pm opener, while last night’s winners—Canada and New Zealand—clash in the 8pm nightcap.
Once again, games will be streamed live on Softball Premier TV. The 4 Nations Cup continues with more international softball drama ahead.