Lopsided win secures title for Brainerd VFW

In its three previous Subdistrict 6 tournament games, the Brainerd VFW baseball team used a powerful offense to put double digit runs on the scoreboard.

Brainerd followed that script Wednesday in the title game against Sauk Rapids, winning 19-9 in Menahga.

For the first game of the tournament, Brainerd went without a home run.

"We hit the ball fine and put some pressure on them," Brainerd coach Joel Lofstrom said. "We hit five doubles and a triple and we ran the bases hard. We had to hit to get it. (Sauk Rapids) got short on pitching in the sixth inning. But overall we kept our composure and hit the ball throughout the game."

It was that final inning that helped put Sauk Rapids away as Brainerd scored nine runs.

Mike Germain, who picked up the win on the mound, paved the way for Brainerd, going 4-for-4 with two doubles and two RBI. Adian Kummet was 2-4 with two RBI while Spencer Sundberg added a triple and Grant Eller had two hits.

"Grant has been very consistent at the plate for us," said Lofstrom. "I don't know the last time he didn't get a hit in a game. Mike Germain has had a great few days batting. But all the way up the lineup someone has been getting the big hits.

"Kyle Holbrook also had a great tournament. He's always been there. With hitting you can get hot and cold and if you go cold you have to rely on pitching and defense."

After having won four consecutive lopsided games, Lofstrom is a little concerned about how his team will react when the hits don't come as freely.

"We haven't been in any close games recently," Lofstrom said. "It's often said that the teams that work the hardest to get somewhere have the most success.

"It'll be interesting when we're in a 3-2 game. But we've been hitting the ball well and putting pressure on teams. We are able to come back and work hard. Nothing seems to concern the players."

Brainerd will open the District 6 playoffs against Cold Spring at the Central Lakes College field at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Brainerd fell to Cold Spring 6-2 earlier in the season.

Also playing are St. Cloud East and Sauk Rapids. Brainerd beat St. Cloud 7-6 in extra innings in an earlier matchup. The winner of the double elimination tournament will move on to state.

"We know Cold Spring has a good team," Lofstrom said. "We beat St. Cloud before so we know both of these teams. We know it will be tough competition."

Sauk Rapids 110 430 -- 9 9 3

Brainerd 610 129 -- 19 14 4

WP -- Mike Germain. LP -- Stanger. Overall -- B 24-5. Next game -- B hosts Cold Spring in District 6 tournament at CLC field 10 a.m. Tues., July 29.