RAPID CITY, S.D – The Post 22 Hardhats put together another impressive performance Thursday night, defeating the Rocky Mountain Lobos 18U, 7-1, during the 51st Firecracker Tournament at Fitzgerald Stadium. What started as an evening of baseball turned into a long night after a rain delay pushed the game well past midnight. Play was stopped in the top of the fourth inning for 49 minutes before the teams returned to the field, with the game finally ending at 1:03 a.m.

Before the first pitch, the evening took on a special meaning as World War II veterans were honored during a touching pregame ceremony. As each veteran’s name was read aloud, the Bell of Remembrance rang in recognition of their service and sacrifice. The crowd also recognized Carter “Tater” Johnson, while Jeff Johnson had the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch to begin the night.

Once the game got underway, both teams settled into a pitching battle. Neither team scored during the first two innings as both defenses made key plays to keep runners off the scoreboard.

Post 22 finally broke through in the bottom of the third inning. The Hardhats scored two runs to take the first lead of the night, giving their dugout energy and momentum as the crowd came to life.

One of the most exciting moments of the game came during that third inning when a Hardhats runner wearing #7 found himself caught in a rundown, or “pickle.” After a fast-paced exchange between the Lobos’ fielders, the runner safely escaped the tag, drawing cheers from the fans. Although he was able to stay alive on the bases, he was eventually left stranded and did not score on the play.

Just as the fourth inning began, dark clouds moved over Fitzgerald Stadium and heavy rain forced the teams off the field. After waiting 49 minutes, the weather cleared enough for play to resume.

The delay did not slow down the Hardhats. Post 22 added two more runs in the fourth inning to extend its lead to 4-1 after Rocky Mountain scored its only run of the game in the top half of the inning.

The Hardhats continued to apply pressure in the fifth inning, scoring three additional runs to build a commanding 7-1 advantage. Strong hitting and aggressive baserunning kept the Lobos on their heels while the Post 22 defense continued to make routine plays behind solid pitching.

Despite the late hour and lengthy weather delay, the Hardhats stayed focused from start to finish. Their balanced effort at the plate, dependable defense, and steady pitching helped them close out another strong win during tournament play.

Even though the game stretched into the early morning hours, the fans who stayed until the final out were rewarded with an exciting performance from the Hardhats. Between honoring local heroes before the game, battling through a rain delay, and earning a convincing 7-1 victory, it was a memorable night at Fitzgerald Stadium and another successful step forward for Post 22 in the Firecracker Tournament.