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Hanson Comes Up Big; Gladstone Edges Escanaba
 ESCANABA---Owen Hanson hit a two-run double in the sixth inning, and then pitched out of jams in the final two innings, leading the Gladstone Braves to a 3-1 win over the Escanaba Eskymos on Thursday afternoon at Al Ness Field. The win was Gladstone's third in four games over Escanaba, and it served as an important tune-up for both teams as they prepare for next week's district tournaments.  Eskymo ace Justin Popelka threw six innings, and Gladstone's Clay Cole came back from his leg injury to toss five innings. There was a running catch into the left-center field gap by Hunter Botruff for the Braves. There was a diving catch by Eskymo left fielder Cody Frappier. There was a double play turned by the Gladstone middle infielders. Gladstone finally broke through with a run in the top of the fifth inning on a sacrifice fly by Jack Stephenson. Then in the sixth inning, Hanson came through with his double to drive home two runs, making it a 3-0 game. The Eskymos had chances in the final two innings, but as has been the case all season long, they just couldn't get the big hit. Popelka's sacrifice fly cut the lead to 3-1, but Johnny Schlenvogt hit into the 6-4-3 double play to end the inning.  Josh Bruntjens and Parker LaMarch both got base hits, putting the tying runs on base. But Hanson got the big out to end the game, saving it for Cole. Popelka took the loss. Gladstone (24-6) travels to Marquette on Friday to close out the regular season. The doubleheader starts at 4:00 and will be broadcast live on WCHT-AM (600), and on-line at www.rrnsports.com. The Braves face Superior Central in the districts on Tuesday. Escanaba (18-14) has finished its regular season, as this Saturday's games in Ashwaubenon, Wis., have been cancelled. The Eskymos face Petoskey in the district opener on Tuesday in Cheboygan. The game starts at 4:30 and will be broadcast on WCHT-AM (600) and www.rrnsports.com. Click the thumbnails in the ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS box above to see photos and videos from Thursday's game.  |
