With their backs against the wall, the Manitowoc 19U American Legion baseball team won out, and earned a trip to the state tournament.
Post 88 had a do-or-die doubleheader Saturday, where they faced off against Kaukauna, who had yet to lose in the regional tournament.
In game 1, Manitowoc jumped out to a 3-1 lead, and held on down the stretch to win 3-2 and force a win-and-in game 2.
Seth Gibault went the distance in game 1, allowing just 5 hits in the contest.
In the regional finale, it was all Manitowoc, as they jumped out to a 6-0 lead through 2 innings and cruised to a 7-1 win.
Aaron Stephany went the distance on the mound, allowing 6 hits and 1 walk while striking out 3 batters.
At the plate, Eyan Dessellier and Tate Hartlaub each batted home 3 runs on the day, while Gavin Lettenberger went 2 for 3 in game 2, driving home a run, and Cole Dvorachek notched his own RBI.
With the win, Manitowoc advances to the American Legion AAA State Tournament this week at Wisconsin Rapids, where they are guaranteed at least two games.
Post 88 will square off against De Pere at 10:00 Tuesday morning (July 30th) before taking on either Eau Claire or Marshfield Wednesday.
