Braves win two state quarterfinal games

TRAVERSE CITY – Tuesday was a great day to be associated with the Gladstone Braves baseball and softball programs.

The high school baseball team won its MHSAA Division 3 quarterfinal game over Muskegon Oakridge, 3-2. Tommy Bailey and Justin Jurek each had an RBI for Gladstone. Hunter Garling got the win on the mound. The sophomore pitched all seven innings

Muskegon Oakridge loaded the bases with two outs in the top of the seventh inning, but Garling was able get the final out, as the ball was hit right at second baseman Ben Schwalbach, who made the catch to end the game.

Gladstone will face Decatur in the state semifinals on Friday at 2:30 p.m at Michigan State University. Decatur defeated Olivet, 5-2.

Joining the Braves baseball team in East Lansing will be the Gladstone softball squad. The Lady Braves defeated the softball team from Muskegon Oakridge, 5-1.

Gladstone took control of the game right from the start. Jess Beaudry had a bases clearing, three RBI triple in the first inning and the Braves never looked back. Tinner Sharon pitched all seven innings for the Braves. She struck out 12 batters and gave up just one run.

The Lady Braves will face Coloma in the Division 3 state semifinals on Friday at 10am. Coloma defeated Springport, 5-2.

You can watch the Braves play in the state semifinals at http://www.mhsaa.tv