The Niagara Snappers captured the 2008 Golden Horseshoe Fastball League title with a 1-0 win over the Niagara Dawgs in a cold one at Kerr Park in Niagara Falls. With two of the league's top pitchers on the mound, the game turned into a defensive battle.

Jamie Simpson picked up the win in seven innings of work. He allowed only two hits and struck out nine along the way. Dawgs pitcher Tom Berube was equal to Simpson in every inning, but was stung by a solo home run off of batter Trevor Falk to account for the game's only run. Berube struck out 11 and didn't walk a man in his six innings of work.

"We've played in weaker tournaments, but this year was a little more challenging. We expected us to win," said coach Jason Paylove. "I think teams don't want to play us when they don't have to, because some nights we can score a boat load and others we just score one."

The Snappers have now won the GHFL playoff tournament three out of the past four years. The team lost to the Niagara Falls Fury in the 2007 finals.

"We have a few guys that are power hitters, but you can't lump them all together," said Paylove. "Because sometimes you need a fast guy or a player that can bunt. I tried to put together a lineup that goes fast."

Snapper Mike Bateman was named the GHFL Playoff MVP. In six games, Bateman knocked out 10 hits in 14 at-bats for a .714 average, including three home runs, one triple, and two doubles with 12 RBIs.

Because of their history, the Snappers feel like they have to win, according to Paylove.

"It's all local guys, it's not like we're bringing in anybody," he said. "We pride ourselves on staying competitive in the league."