Some held firm while others cracked. That’s how Montpellier claimed the 2023 French title against Montigny, needing five games to decide the winner.
Pitching dominated the first four contests, with scores often separated by just a single run. The final game saw Montpellier’s bullpen continue their dominance against the Cougars, who brought in their relievers. The duo of Owen Ozanich and Kevin Canelon completely silenced Montigny’s bats. Yes, the Barracudas’ coach had already earned his spikes in the semifinals, but here he was nothing short of imperial for the first five innings.
The ‘boss’s’ power on the mound energized his team. (The same could be said for Yorfrank Lopez from Montigny.) The Barracudas didn’t flinch, even when their team giant, Yoan Antonac, was ejected. He’s crucial for the team, having launched the only home run of the final in the previous game.
The Montpellier club finally claimed this championship. It’s been 27 years since they last won, securing their fourth title in history. Ben Couvreur received the award for Best Pitcher of the competition.
Now, hear from the player-coach, Owen Ozanich, as he reflects on this thrilling final and expresses his joy at becoming French champions with his new team—a feeling he’s already experienced while playing for Rouen.
Obviously, I’m over the moon to bring the title to Montpellier. Coaching this team was a pure pleasure. The other pitchers have been outstanding all season; I had no choice but to match them. We absolutely had to finish the job!
This was truly a special year:
- Two champions not named Rouen: Montigny for the France Challenge and Montpellier for the French title
- Incredible suspense until the very end, finally keeping us on the edge of our seats throughout the championship.
- These two clubs will meet in the 2024 European Cup B (since Rouen lost France’s spot in the top-tier European Cup A)
- Several French players emerged as stars (Couvreur, Lacombe…)
- Broadcast audiences continue to grow, and soon all major competitions will be televised.
