Spuds reach semifinals of Yakima Firecracker Tournament

YAKIMA — Central Washington bowed out in the semifinals of the Yakima Firecracker Tournament, finishing 2-3 overall.

“A lot of improvement the last few games and everything,” assistant coach Chase Tunstall said. “Probably playing our best baseball right now.”

Central Washington’s opening round game against the River Dogs on Thursday was postponed to Friday due to rain. Picking up in the fourth inning, the Spuds were able to hang on for a 3-2 win.

Starting pitcher Tyson Yamane three four shutout innings.

The Spuds knocked off the Spokane Expos 6-3 before two straight losses to league opponents. Central Washington lost to Twin City 7-4 and to the Yakima Beetles 6-3.

The Spokane Bandits edged the Spuds in the semifinals 4-2.

Nate Ball, Yamane and Cade Tunstall swung the bat well over the weekend.

“Collectively we hit pretty well,” Chase Tunstall said.

Central Washington will have to win its final four league games for a chance at the postseason.

Walleyes split with Brewster

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake was able to split a home doubleheader with Brewster.

The Walleyes won the opener 12-4 before losing the nightcap 6-4.

In Game 1, the Walleyes broke a 2-2 tie with four runs each in the third and fourth inning. Zach Valdez drove in two runs and Colton Minoletti had three hits.

Moses Lake led 4-2 in the second game before a four-run seventh inning completed Brewster’s comeback.

Blake Sidwell and Brent Mendenhall had two hits each for the Walleyes.