RAPID CITY, S.D. — Post 22 tightened its grip on a late lead Thursday night to defeat the West Fargo Patriots, 5-4, and head into the weekend riding a four-game winning streak.
Close finish in lead-up to regional tournament
The Hardhats, who opened July by hosting the Firecracker Tournament, are this week organizing the inaugural Dave Ploof Legacy Tournament, a three-day event that begins Friday and includes teams from North Dakota, Nebraska, Montana and Idaho. Before the tournament starts, West Fargo arrived early for a tune-up game against Post 22.
Post 22 carried a 5-2 advantage into the seventh inning. West Fargo rallied and plated two runs in the final frame, narrowing the margin, but the Hardhats preserved the one-run win.
Pitching and offense
Left-hander Brayden Stapert earned the victory for Post 22. He worked six and two-thirds innings, giving up eight hits and four runs while striking out seven and issuing four walks. Offensively, Brixton Steen contributed two RBIs to help secure the win.
| Team | Runs |
|---|---|
| Post 22 (Hardhats) | 5 |
| West Fargo Patriots | 4 |
What’s next
- Post 22 improved to 35-8 with the victory.
- The Hardhats will open the Dave Ploof Legacy Tournament Friday night against Idaho Falls at 7:30 p.m.
- The three-day tournament runs through Sunday and will feature regional teams from four states.
The tight finish gives Post 22 momentum heading into weekend play at home. The tournament presents a chance for the Hardhats to test depth and pitching on consecutive days, while offering local fans a concentration of regional summer baseball.
Coverage of the Dave Ploof Legacy Tournament and Post 22’s next games will follow as results are reported.
