South Sound Secures State Tournament Berths
The latest round of high school baseball playoffs has left the South Sound brimming with excitement as multiple programs have locked in their places at the 2026 WIAA state tournaments. Both Class 4A and Class 3A brackets will feature a mix of seasoned contenders and surprising newcomers, each hoping to translate early victories into deeper runs.
Class 4A Highlights
In the 4A division, the Vikings of Curtis edged out Battle Ground 2‑1 in a nail‑biter that hinged on Burke Shepard’s two‑run single and Cooper Hordyk’s steady arm on the mound. The Bears of Olympia, meanwhile, reinforced their sixth straight tournament appearance with an 8‑2 triumph over Emerald Ridge, driven by Travis Kunkel’s pitching and Milo Tolbert’s timely RBI. The Spartans of Sumner staged a dramatic comeback, rallying from a six‑run deficit before Jake Miller delivered a walk‑off double that sealed a 7‑6 win over Kennedy Catholic. Adding to the narrative, Tahoma’s Bears showcased a dominant performance when Neal Burtis tossed a no‑hit game, complemented by Beckett Turnbow’s home run and a run that scored on Trey Davies’ error.
Class 3A Highlights
Class 3A action produced its share of fireworks. Decatur’s Gators exploded for 20 runs, fueled by Dylan Reano’s 3‑for‑3 effort and a 15‑run second inning that overwhelmed White River. Gig Harbor’s Tides surged past Bellarmine Prep 11‑3, highlighted by Zach Smith’s inside‑the‑park homer and Jake Cuda’s effective pitching. Kentlake’s Falcons silenced Silas with a 7‑0 shutout, anchored by Christopher Moore’s six‑plus innings of scoreless baseball and a seven‑run fifth that put the game out of reach. Finally, the Seahawks of Peninsula rallied late, with Andy Merry’s go‑ahead RBI single and AJ Williamson’s three‑run burst securing an 8‑4 victory over Enumclaw.