The Brainerd American Legion baseball squad clinched a spot in the 19U State Legion Tournament after a hard‑fought 5‑2 victory over Alexandria in the Division I Senior Sub‑State 12 Championship.
A decisive win
Tyden Guida led the offense with two hits, one of which cleared the fence for a double, while Brady Vanek and Griffin Bartholomaus added their own doubles to the mix. Kash Caughey delivered a solid pitching performance to earn the win, and Jayden Tautges sealed the game with a save.
The triumph propels Brainerd into the state tournament slated to begin on July 30 in New Ulm and Sleepy Eye, where they will meet Marshall, Farmington and Elk River in a competitive pool.
To advance from the pool, Brainerd must finish among the top two teams, a goal that would carry them into the final eight bracket that determines the state champion.
The team’s recent form has been mixed. Earlier they fell 9‑5 to Alexandria, with Rylan Amundson and Tydan Guida each collecting two hits, while Griffin Bartholomaus took the loss on the mound. A separate 11‑9 win over Moorhead showcased a potent bat lineup, as Bartholomaus and Vanek each posted three hits, supported by Michael Hagelie, Kash Caughey and Gus Lund, who each contributed two hits.
In a tight 3‑2 victory against Perham, Tydan Guida limited the opposition to just two runs, and Gus Lund earned the save while also doubling at the plate.
Overall, the Legion’s blend of timely hitting, reliable pitching and steady defense positions them as a serious contender as the state tournament approaches.