Troopers battle in back-to-back tight games to open season
The Garrison Troopers baseball team opened its 2026 campaign with a pair of tightly contested games, coming up just short in both but showing plenty of promise in early-season action.
Garrison dropped a 6-4 decision to Central McLean on Thursday, April 9 at home before falling 6-5 on the road to Hazen the following day.
Despite the two losses, the Troopers proved they can compete in close games, with both contests coming down to the final innings.
Against Central McLean, Garrison received a strong offensive spark from Gaige Roberts, who went a perfect 2-for-2 at the plate, driving in two runs and launching a home run to lead the Troopers’ attack.
Ethan Butman also contributed with two hits in four at-bats, while Lucas Holte reached base three times with a hit and two walks.
Aiden Ferguson and Slade Nordstrom each drove in a run, with Nordstrom also drawing a walk as the Troopers worked to keep pace throughout the game. Emmett Lagge and Nordstrom added hits, helping Garrison generate consistent opportunities offensively.
On the mound, Grady Crawford delivered an impressive outing despite the result. The right-hander pitched 4.2 innings, allowing five hits and five runs, only two of which were earned, while striking out nine and walking three. Brody Seidler provided relief, throwing 2.1 innings and allowing just one hit and one run.