The Iowa high school baseball state quarterfinals delivered a classic pitcher's duel on Tuesday night, as the Valley Wildcats edged out the Waukee Warriors 2-1 in a game that swung on a single run in the seventh inning.
Valley's right‑hander Ryan Stedman was the centerpiece of the victory, throwing a complete game that limited the Warriors to just two hits while striking out nine batters. His effort kept the Wildcats in contention despite a late rally attempt by Waukee.
Coach Garrett Hawkins, who has guided the Wildcats through a demanding schedule this spring, praised the team's resilience after the win. "We knew we were up against a tough opponent, and the boys responded when it mattered most," Hawkins said.
The win propels Valley into the state semifinals, where they will meet the Indianola Indians in a rematch of earlier-season contests. It is the Wildcats' first appearance in the state tournament since 2018, a milestone that has energized the program and its fan base.
Looking Ahead to the Semifinals
With the semifinal matchup looming, Valley will need to maintain the same poise and execution that carried them past Waukee. The team's recent schedule, highlighted by tough non‑conference games, may have prepared them for the intensity of the state stage.
The upcoming contest against Indianola promises another tight battle, as both teams bring strong pitching arsenals and disciplined hitting approaches. Fans on both sides will be watching closely to see which program advances to the championship game.