THUNDER BAY – The calls of “Play Ball” won’t be heard at Port Arthur Stadium this summer as the Thunder Bay Border Cats have announced that they have cancelled their 2020 Northwoods League Baseball season.
“It’s extremely unfortunate that we won’t be able to play baseball this summer in Thunder Bay, but with the current state of this pandemic, it is out of our control,” stated Border Cats president David Valente. “The Border Cats organization and it’s parent company Grand Slam Sports & Entertainment remains committed to Thunder Bay and the team will be back next season. We truly appreciate the patience and understanding from our fans and corporate partners,” added Valente.
The Border Cats say that the closure of the Canada-United States border until June 21 and the 14-day self-isolation restrictions for visitors into the country following any potential re-opening have made it impossible for the Border Cats to play home games this season.
Additionally, there are no guarantees a significant gathering of fans will be allowed at Port Arthur Stadium at any point this summer.
The Cats share that “There is a silver lining as the American born players on the Border Cats roster have been given the option to participate in a three-team league based in Bismarck, North Dakota. Canadian players on the roster could be added during the course of the season if they’re granted access to the United States. “The Northwoods League continues to be a top development league and that will continue this summer as a majority of our roster will be playing in a very competitive and safe environment at the home of the Bismarck Larks”, said Border Cats field manager Mike Steed. “We look forward to seeing the returning players in uniform for the 2021 season at Port Arthur Stadium.”
