Cruiser Baseball Honors Seniors on Senior Night

The Eatonville Cruiser baseball team bid farewell to its regular season in a bittersweet affair last Thursday, as they played host to the Montesano Bulldogs in their final home game of the season. Amidst the competitive clash, the Cruisers also took a poignant moment to honor their two esteemed seniors, Payton Hanly and Will Sepich, in a heartfelt ceremony. Both Hanly and Sepich, pillars of the team, are poised to continue their baseball journeys at the collegiate level, with Hanly slated to join Centralia Community College in Centralia, WA, and Sepich set to play for Grays Harbor Community College in Aberdeen, WA.

Eatonville Seniors Payton Hanly and Will Sepich pose for a photo after being honored on Senior Night. Photo: Alicia Hanly

Head Coach Doug Fillbach sent Brody Thirtyacre to the mound, seeking to clinch a victory to cap off the regular season. However, the Montesano Bulldogs wasted no time, capitalizing on early opportunities to set the tone. In a swift offensive surge, they scored a run in the first inning, followed by a four-run barrage in the second inning, putting the Cruisers down early, 4-0.

Undeterred by the early deficit, Eatonville rallied in the bottom half of the second inning, showcasing their resilience and determination. Aaron Tozier started off the inning with a well-placed single past the second baseman, igniting hope for a comeback. Momentum built as Michael Laird joined the offensive fray, securing a single to right field and advancing Tozier to third base. With the stage set, Waylan Berg seized the moment, delivering a decisive blow with a powerful shot to left field, enabling Tozier to cross home plate and narrow the Bulldogs' lead.

Despite the valiant efforts of the Cruisers, their offensive output remained limited, with Berg's timely contribution standing as their lone run of the contest. The Bulldogs would ultimately take home a commanding 14-1 victory in 5 innings.

Eatonville finished the regular season 4-12 overall and 2-10 in 1A Evergreen League play. The Cruisers finished in 4th place in the league and has secured the number four seed into the District 4 playoffs which begin Monday May 6th. Eatonville will face off against the La Center Wildcats at Castle Rock HS. The first pitch is scheduled for 4 pm.