PLANKINTON, S.D. — The Kimball/White Lake Nationals showcased a dominant performance on Tuesday night, securing their 10th victory of the season with a decisive 10-3 win over the Plankinton Bankers. This game, a makeup from a weather-postponed match originally scheduled for June 28, was marked by a powerful opening from the Nationals, who scored five runs in the first inning.
In a display of offensive prowess, the Nationals accumulated 12 hits and drew nine walks. Dylanger Pierson was a standout, reaching base in all five of his plate appearances, contributing three hits, and drawing two walks. Pierson, along with three other teammates, drove in two runs each, underscoring the team’s balanced offensive effort.
Pitching and Offensive Highlights
On the mound, starter Ethan Price delivered a solid performance, allowing three runs on a single hit and five walks over 3 2/3 innings, while striking out nine batters. Mitch Price took over in relief, pitching the final 5 1/3 innings, allowing four hits and three walks, and striking out eight.
Other notable performances included Dylan Konechne, who drew three walks and drove in two runs, and Caleb Christ, who had a three-hit night. Jaxon Christensen also contributed significantly, going 2-of-5 with two RBIs and three runs scored.
Plankinton’s Struggle
For the Plankinton Bankers, now 6-4, Thomas Stange managed one of the team’s five hits, driving in a run. Cole Pranger was 1-of-4 with an RBI, while Devin Mehlhaff reached base with a hit and a walk, notably avoiding a strikeout, unlike his teammates. Hunter Pranger, despite a commendable effort, allowed two earned runs over three innings.
The Nationals, now boasting a 10-1 record, will face the Colome Chaos after an eight-day break, with their next game scheduled for 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, in White Lake.
Yankton Lakers Remain Undefeated
Meanwhile, in Yankton, the Class A No. 5-ranked Yankton Lakers continued their undefeated streak, improving to 14-0 with a 14-4 victory over the Mitchell Aces at Tereshinski Stadium. The Lakers’ comprehensive performance was highlighted by Drew Ryken, who excelled both offensively and on the mound, collecting three hits and two RBIs while striking out five over six innings.
Lucas Kampshoff and Waylon McKnight each drove in three runs, while Mac Ryken added two RBIs on three hits. The Mitchell Aces, struggling with a 1-15 record, were limited to four hits, two of which came from Carter Miller.
Tuesday’s Action Across the League
In other league action, the Canova Gang, ranked No. 2 in Class B, matched their season-best run total with a 17-8 victory over the Flandreau Cardinals. Jared and Justin Miller each contributed three hits and three RBIs, while Kendall Gassman reached base five times.
Alexandria’s Angels, ranked No. 9 in Class B, defeated the Parkston Mudcats 11-3, thanks to a strong pitching performance from Alex Ferrin, who struck out 12 over six innings. Pierce Smith’s two-hit, three-RBI game further solidified the Angels’ win.
In Salem, the Hartford/Humboldt Wood Ducks held off the Salem Cubs with a 6-4 victory. Hayden Whiting excelled in the No. 9 spot, going 2-of-3 with two RBIs and a run scored.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, teams like the Kimball/White Lake Nationals and Yankton Lakers continue to set the pace in their respective leagues. With upcoming games and potential playoff implications, fans can expect more thrilling baseball action in the weeks to come.
The Nationals’ next challenge against the Colome Chaos will be pivotal in maintaining their momentum, while the Lakers aim to extend their unbeaten run. Meanwhile, teams like the Mitchell Aces will look to regroup and improve their standings as the season unfolds.
