Panthers lose season opener in Toronto
TORONTO - The Panthers had the go-ahead run at the dish with nobody out in the ninth, but weren't able to get the bounces needed in the team's first-ever fully professional game.
Former MLB all-star Yasiel Puig hit two home runs, including a three-run shot in the second inning, as the Toronto Maple Leafs downed Kitchener 8-6 Sunday at Christie Pits.
Trent Lawson hit his first home run of the season in the loss.
Dennis Dei Baning also went yard for the Leafs.
Yosvani Penalver had a productive day in the leadoff spot, going three-for-five with a walk and an RBI.
Owen MacNeil gave up four runs on five hits in three innings in the start. He struck out four and walked two.
Former Panther Yadian Martinez struck out three for the Leafs. He went five innings, giving up three runs on three hits, walked one and hit two batters.
Kitchener drops to 0-1, while Toronto moves to 1-0 to start the 2026 season.
The Panthers host Chatham-Kent for a school day exhibition game on Wednesday at 11 a.m.
Kitchener then hit the road against Hamilton Friday at 7:35 p.m., before welcoming the Barnstormers once again on Sunday for the official home opener at Jack Couch Park. First pitch is at 2:05 p.m.