RAPID CITY, S.D. — The first night of the Dave Ploof Legacy Tournament got off to an exciting start Monday at Pete Lien Memorial Field as the Post 22 Expos faced the Post 320 Shooters in a competitive doubleheader. Fans were treated to strong hitting, outstanding defense, and exciting plays throughout the night as the Expos opened tournament play with plenty of energy and determination.
The Expos gave fans plenty to cheer about with timely hits, aggressive baserunning, and a standout pitching performance that helped make the evening one to remember.
In the first game, the Expos found an early spark in the bottom of the second inning. With a runner on base, #5 Grady Barclay drove a triple into the outfield, bringing #17 Daxton Karn home to score. The clutch hit energized the dugout and gave the Expos momentum as they battled the Shooters throughout the game.
The second game featured even more offensive fireworks from the Expos.
In the top of the fourth inning, #44 Tim Riggins came through with a double that scored #5 Grady Barclay, giving the Expos another big boost. Just moments later, #46 Noah Spain added to the excitement with a double of his own, driving in both #44 Tim Riggins and #24 Marvin Cuny. The back-to-back extra-base hits gave the Expos a strong inning and had the dugout celebrating.
The offense continued rolling in the fifth inning when #37 Brayden McCulley blasted a triple, keeping pressure on the Shooters’ defense and putting another runner into scoring position.
Brayden McCulley also made a huge impact on defense while playing center field. In the seventh inning, he recorded all but one of the outs, making outstanding plays in the outfield to help shut down the Shooters’ offense. His defensive performance was one of the biggest highlights of the game and helped the Expos finish strong.
The Shooters answered with a highlight of their own during the second game. In the bottom of the fourth inning, #9 Tayden Lanaghan connected for a triple, giving Post 320 a scoring opportunity and reminding everyone that the doubleheader would be competitive until the final outs.
While the action on the field was exciting, one of the Expos’ favorite traditions took place after the game. The team’s little green stuffed bear was once again passed around the clubhouse and awarded to the game’s Most Valuable Player. The tradition has become a fun way for teammates to recognize one another’s hard work, leadership, and big performances while bringing the team even closer together.
From clutch extra-base hits to outstanding pitching and plenty of energy from both dugouts, the doubleheader showcased the determination and teamwork of the Post 22 Expos. Every inning brought excitement as the players continued to battle against a talented Post 320 Shooters squad.
With contributions throughout the lineup and another memorable performance at Pete Lien Memorial Field, the Expos continue to build confidence as the season moves forward. Monday night’s doubleheader was another example of the effort, excitement, and team chemistry that have made the Expos an entertaining team to watch this summer.
