Utica Blue Sox and Batavia Muckdogs Set to Clash in Winner-Take-All PGCBL Championship
Written by Intern WBTA on July 31, 2026
By: Cam Crossett
The 2026 Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League Championship game runs through Batavia tonight as the Utica Blue Sox will take on the Muckdogs in a winner-take-all title game o determine this season’s league champion.
The Blue Sox enter the championship after an impressive postseason run. Utica finished the regular season with a 26-18 record, placing third in the league standings, before defeating the Saugerties Stallions in the opening round and the Amsterdam Mohawks in the East Division Finals to earn its championship berth. Head Coach Doug Delett, now in his sixth season, has guided the Blue Sox to five playoff appearances while compiling more than 200 career victories with the organization.
Utica’s offense has been among the league’s most productive, scoring 365 runs while batting .295 with a .430 on-base percentage. The lineup is anchored by Jack Sweeney, who hit .310 with eight home runs and 31 RBIs. Connor Jones, Ethan Madison, and Michael Flashner have also been key contributors throughout the season. On the mound, John Rigas finished third in the PGCBL with 51 strikeouts, while Joey Kafka, Austin Rhodes, Drake Aycock, and Brandon Peterson have provided valuable innings throughout the summer.
Batavia finished the regular season with a record of 30-10-1 and captured the West Division title. The Muckdogs are seeking their fifth championship in their 87 year history and their first since 2008.
The Muckdogs feature one of the league’s deepest lineups, led by Jackson Inman’s .407 batting average, Evan Brock’s league leading 47 RBI’s, and Jalen David’s 43 stolen bases during the regular season. Batavia’s pitching staff has been equally dominant behind Jake Szlis, who ranks second in the PGCBL with 59 strikeouts, Mason Davey’s 1.84 ERA and closer Eric Woodley’s seven saves.
With a PGCBL Championship trophy on the line, two of the league’s premier club will battle for summer collegiate baseball’s ultimate prize in a winner-take-all showdown.
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.
