In a high-stakes showdown that had fans glued to their seats, Webster emerged victorious over Prior Lake in a dramatic Region 3C playoff game, securing the coveted #3 seed for Region 3C and gaining entry into the 2024 Class ‘C’ Minnesota State Amateur Baseball Tournament. The 6-3 win not only propelled the Sox into the state tournament but also ended the Mudcats’ season in heartbreaking fashion.
The Mudcats jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the second inning when Charlie Bredeson singled and was then driven in by a base hit from Jerad Lehrer. Webster would answer quickly in the third, tying the game at one.
A troublesome fifth inning for the Mudcats would yield three runs to the Sox as a result of three walks and a defensive error, and Webster plated another run in the sixth. The home half of the sixth would create some excitement for the Mudcats, who almost hit through the lineup and tallied two runs. The sixth would be the last time the Mudcats had baserunners till a late push in the bottom of the ninth when John Parker reached on an error, and Lehrer walked. Both runners were left stranded, ending the game.
Ryan Wattermann got the start for Prior Lake, providing 5 1/3 innings of service, allowing four runs, striking out seven, walking two, and plunking two. Lance Behrens would provide some quick relief to end an inning before Alex Wattermann took over. The elder Wattermann held the Sox to one run in two innings of relief, and Nick Allbee finished the ninth inning, putting Webster down in order.
With this win, Webster advances to the state tournament. For Prior Lake, the loss is a tough end to a hard-fought campaign.