A Walk‑Off Triumph
East Peoria’s baseball squad captured the Class 3A state third‑place game with a 7‑6 victory over Crystal Lake South, sealing the win on a walk‑off RBI single by Dalton Oakman.
The triumph marks the second‑highest finish in the program’s history, a milestone that coach Matt Plummer said reflects the team’s character and dedication.
After building a 6‑1 lead entering the seventh inning, the Raiders faced a five‑run surge by Crystal Lake South, sparked by four hits and an error, but managed to hold on.
RJ Duncheon contributed a two‑run homer and finished 3‑for‑3 with three RBIs, while Jackson Ahrens made a pivotal defensive play, throwing out Nolan Dabrowski at the plate.
Wes Bogda led Crystal Lake South with a 3‑for‑3 day, and the team finished with 11 hits overall.
Dalton Oakman earned the win with a solid 6.2 innings, striking out three and allowing eight hits, underscoring the collective effort that defined the team’s season.
Coach Plummer praised the players’ perseverance and highlighted the unwavering support from their parents as a key factor in the comeback.