Batavia and Jamestown Clash for West Division Crown
Written by Intern WBTA on July 28, 2026
By: Cam Crossett
The PGCBL West Division finals is set between the No. 1 seed Batavia Muckdogs hosting No. 2 seed Jamestown Tarp Skunks in a winner take all showdown, with the victor advancing to the PGCBL Championship Series.
Both team’s enter tonight’s matchup riding impressive playoff performances, Jamestown (26-11-2) opened the postseason by blanking Elmira 8-0, while Batavia (30-10-1) cruised passed Auburn 12-1 behind dominant pitching from starter Gavin “Bama” Chandler and a few bases clearing extra base hits.
These clubs have been the class of the West Division throughout the summer. Batavia captured the season series 4-2-1, including a memorable 12-12 tie on July 10, and finished the regular season with a .306 team batting average and a .432 on-base percentage. The Muckdogs’ lineup is powered by PGCBL RBI leader Evan Brock, who drove in 47 runs while Jalen David’s league leading 43 stolen bases have added another dynamic element to the offense. Glenn Brooks, Jackson Inman and Cooper Russell have all played key roles in one of the league’s deepest lineups.
Jamestown has answered with a balanced attack under first-year manager Joe Reitebach, who guided the Tarp Skunks to a 26-win campaign after serving as the club’s pitching coach in 2025. Utility man Eric Weeks finished with 37 RBI’s, while outfielder Grant Moore hit .339 with 44 runs scored and 26 stolen bases. Infielder Nolan Smith enters the game batting .408 while Joaquin Rodriguez-Costa, Anthony Trommer and Caleb Jordan provide depth throughout the lineup.
Pitching could ultimately decide tonight’s winner. Jamestown boasts one of the league’s deepest staffs, led by strikeout ace Zachary McLean and a reliable bullpen anchored by Collin Pence and Chase Beran. Batavia counters with one of the PGCBL’s premier pitching rotations, featuring Jake Szlis, Mason Davey, Gavin Chandler (last night’s starter) and shutdown closer Eric Woodley. With a championship series berth on the line, expect postseason intensity from the very first pitch.
Gates at Dwyer Stadium open at 5:30 p.m., with first pitch scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tickets are still available and can still be purchased by stopping by the Muckdogs box office located at 299 Bank Street or calling (585) 524-2260.
