The Stockton Ports will host California League playoff baseball at Banner Island Ballpark on Tuesday after securing their first postseason berth since 2018.
Stockton will face the San Jose Giants at 7:05 p.m. in the opening game of the North Division championship series, with the Giants seeking to repeat as league champions. Gates open at 6 p.m.
“It means everything to us and our community to make the playoffs for the first time since 2018,” Ports General Manager Jordan Feneck said. “We work tirelessly to provide affordable family fun to the community, and to make it to the postseason and give Stockton more opportunities to enjoy Ports baseball is a dream come true.”
The Ports clinched the second-half playoff spot Sunday with an 8-3 win over the Visalia Rawhide.
“I think the biggest thing that got us to this point was the hard work and daily dedication that these guys have put in,” Ports Manager Darryl Kennedy said.
Stockton overcame an early three-run deficit by scoring four runs in the second inning. Michael Brooks drove in four runs, while Alex Sosa added a solo home run.
The Ports ended the second half of the season with four consecutive wins to give them a 35-31 record, passing Fresno in the standings and earning a home playoff game.
Game 2 in the series will be in San Jose on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. If necessary, Game 3 would also be in San Jose on Friday. The winners will go on to face the South Division champions — either Lake Elsinore or Ontario — for the California League title.
“The biggest thing about playoffs is it’s a win mentality,” Kennedy said. “The good thing is we have had to do that for at least three weeks just to be in this situation. I want this team to show up with that same hunger and determination that they have showed the last three weeks.”