The 2026 state amateur baseball tournaments in South Dakota have officially started, drawing teams, fans, and local attention to the diamond as summer reaches its peak.
In the Class B division, the opening night schedule features two marquee matchups: Elk Point will face Parkston, followed by a contest between Valley Springs and the combined Kimball/White Lake squad. Both games are set to begin at 5:30 PM local time, marking the first step toward a winner‑take‑all championship that culminates on August 16.
Class B Tournament Schedule
From Thursday through Sunday, the tournament will host four games each day, after which the slate will thin to two contests per day until the final weekend. The championship game, scheduled for August 16, will be a winner‑take‑all affair, underscoring the high stakes for the remaining teams.
The Class A division follows a different structure, running an eight‑team double‑elimination bracket. Initial games will be played in Yankton before the competition shifts to Mitchell for the final weekend, where Cadwell Park and Drake Field will serve as the primary venues.
Class A Tournament Format
The Class A field features a double‑elimination format that eliminates two teams over the weekend before the championship weekend. If the undefeated team suffers a loss, the championship game will revert to a winner‑take‑all match rather than a consolation contest, heightening the drama for spectators.
Opening day in Yankton is set for Friday, with Brookings taking on Tea at 5:30 PM to kick off the tournament. The event will showcase a blend of seasoned players and emerging talent, all competing for the coveted state title.
Both tournaments will be held at well‑known local ballparks, with Mitchell’s Cadwell Park and Drake Field providing the backdrop for the decisive games. The venues have historically hosted state championships, offering fans a familiar and vibrant atmosphere.