July 6, 2021 – Guelph, Ontario, Canada –
Announced on June 21 via social media, and official websites, the Guelph Royals have decided to pull out of the 2021 season in the Intercounty Baseball League. This is due to operations being shut down by COVID-19, and the fear of fans attending, as well as other concerns, according to the official release by the team on the IBL website. The players will be released from the league for the season. With this team dropping out of the upcoming season, this only leaves a few teams left for the start of the season in early July. But, this could also be a great chance for the team to build synergy and gather new players if need be, increasing their strength as a whole, and working on weaknesses they may have had.
But, one of the top questions is “Will the other teams drop out as well?” If other teams plan to drop out, what will be left of the season? There is always a chance with one team dropping out, it could influence other teams to follow suit due to the same concerns. As of now, no other teams have decided to discontinue the season, but this could change at a later date, potentially even during the season. In a situation like this, one may see it as normal for other teams to follow suit, especially with COVID in the background of it all.
Nothing has been released in regards to the future of the season if teams continue to drop out. As the season continues, time will only tell what is left for the remaining teams competing. The remaining teams are still set to play a 30-game schedule for the season with a new playoff format, according to the official IBL website. Without the Royal’s playing along, how will this season play out for the league? This will be the 102’nd season for the IBL. The official schedules and list of teams competing are on the IBL website, as well as further game information.
The Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) is the top-level baseball league in Canada, boasting ex-major league professional and elite NCAA college baseball players.
