A Top Seed’s Quest Begins
The Pleasantville Trojans, the No. 1 seed in the Class 2A baseball bracket, open their state tournament run on Tuesday night against the eighth‑seeded Ridge View crew at Merchants Park in Carroll. The matchup is set for 7:00 p.m., and the game will be broadcast live on 95.3 KNIA, giving fans across the state a chance to follow the action.
Pleasantville arrives at the tournament for the third straight season, riding the momentum of a dominant substate final in which they routed Albia 15‑0. That victory not only underscored the team’s depth but also reinforced their reputation as a formidable contender.
What makes this year’s run especially compelling is the fact that the Trojans have retained every player from last year’s championship squad. After capturing the state title in 2025, the team returned its entire roster, giving them continuity and chemistry that many rivals lack.
Coach Dan Miller praised his squad’s preparation, noting that the players have been fine‑tuning their hitting and pitching over the past weeks. “We’ve got a balanced lineup, solid pitching depth, and the experience of a title‑winning group,” Miller said before the game.
Ridge View, despite entering as the eighth seed, has shown resilience throughout the regular season, relying on a disciplined approach and a few standout hitters. The Trojans will need to stay focused early, as the game’s tempo can shift quickly in high‑stakes tournament environments.
Beyond the on‑field action, the tournament serves as a showcase for the local community. Merchants Park, a historic venue in Carroll, will host the opening contest, drawing families, alumni, and local businesses together in support of the teams.
Fans who cannot attend in person can still enjoy the game through the live radio broadcast on 95.3 KNIA, which will provide play‑by‑play commentary and analysis throughout the evening.