The Naselle Comets erupted in a 23‑3 quarterfinal victory over Sunnyside Christian, a performance that has put the team one win away from the 1B state championship and underscored their offensive firepower.
A First‑Inning Onslaught
Naselle seized control early, exploding for 14 runs before the first inning even ended, a surge that matched the Comets’ highest single‑inning total of the season.
Starting pitcher Trajen Ford was nearly untouchable, fanning nine batters while surrendering just three runs on six hits and walking none.
Kyle Pakenen led the lineup with four RBIs on two hits, driving in crucial runs during the early onslaught.
Looking Ahead to DeSales
The Comets will meet DeSales on May 29, a showdown that will decide which squad advances to the championship game scheduled for May 30. The loser of that contest will contest a third‑place game the following day.
Coach Scott Henington, athletic director Blythe Engleson and the rest of the staff praised the team’s cohesion, while players Eli Gardner and Garrett Boggs echoed the excitement of a community rallying behind its young stars.