The Big Rapids Post 98AA American Legion 18U baseball team traveled to Calvin University on Tuesday night, where they faced off against Diamonds 18U in a tightly contested game that ended 11-8 in favor of the visitors. The loss dropped the Post 98AA record to 2-6-1, leaving the squad eager to rebound in their next outing.
Early Sparks
The game opened with Karsen Rehkopf crossing the plate in the first inning, giving Big Rapids an early 1-0 lead. Austin Gragg followed with a sacrifice fly in the third, extending the advantage to 2-0 before Diamonds answered with a three-run burst in the bottom of the inning to seize a 3-2 edge.
Big Rapids refused to fold, erupting for five runs in the fourth. The rally was anchored by a two-run double from Caleb Somers, and the team compiled five hits during the frame to pull ahead 7-5. Russell Toth contributed three hits, while Nick Routley added two more to keep the momentum rolling.
Diamonds' Late Surge
Diamonds 18U regrouped in the sixth, plating three more runs to flip the scoreboard, and added two insurance runs in the seventh to pull away. The final tally settled at 11-8, underscoring the competitive nature of the contest.
On the mound, Emmett Lingeman delivered a solid two-inning start, allowing just one hit and no runs while striking out three and walking three. His effort kept the game within reach despite the eventual setback.
Looking Ahead
The Post 98AA squad will return to action this Friday, traveling to Davenport University to meet Michigan Elite Selects 17U. The upcoming matchup offers a chance to reset the season’s trajectory and build on the offensive firepower displayed against Diamonds.