The Union Cougars clinched the 3A state baseball championship on Saturday, completing a 12‑run seventh inning that turned a close contest into a decisive victory.
A Night of Power Hitting
Ryan Oakey delivered a complete‑game shutout, allowing just three hits while striking out 11 batters, showcasing a blend of fastball velocity and sharp breaking balls that kept the Grantsville Cowboys off balance.
Coach Matt Labrum, who has guided the team through a season of growth, praised Oakey’s mental resilience and physical development, noting that the pitcher’s confidence grew with each inning.
The offensive outburst in the seventh was sparked by a series of timely hits, including RBI singles from Brennen Mecham, Stetson Wills and Davin Brotherson, which pushed the Cougars’ lead to double digits.
Defensive Steadiness
Union’s defense held firm throughout, with Gannon Labrum and Gavin Wilkerson contributing key outs, while the bench players added depth to the lineup.
The team’s ability to manage the pressure of being the top seed was evident in their composure under fire, a trait that Labrum said was cultivated from the first practice of the season.
Looking Ahead
The championship marks the second title for Union in three years, a testament to sustained program excellence. As the team celebrates, attention will shift to the offseason, where development of younger talent like Tyson Marx and Dylan Watahomigie will be key.