In a thrilling season finale, the Tenino Beavers closed out their campaign with a commanding 10-4 victory over the Rainier Mountaineers on Wednesday night, showcasing the resilience and talent that defines high school baseball in South Thurston County.
The Beavers (4-17) entered the game with postseason hopes still alive, needing a win to keep their Class 1A District 4 tournament dreams intact. After a tight opening that saw Rainier grab an early lead, Tenino stormed back with six unanswered runs to secure the win.
The turning point came in the third inning when the score was knotted at 4-4. Kolton Sheldon sparked the rally with a booming RBI triple, his second three-bagger of the night. The Beavers then poured it on in the fourth, plating four runs behind timely hitting and aggressive base running.
Sawyer Noonan was the offensive star, going 3-for-4 with a double, triple, and four RBIs. Easton Miller also shined, collecting three hits, scoring twice, and stealing a base. On the mound, Miller went the distance, scattering eight hits while striking out four to earn the complete-game victory.
Rainier (9-11) jumped out to an early advantage, scoring all four of their runs in the first two innings. Yazama Gurnsey delivered the biggest blow with a two-run triple in the second, finishing 3-for-4 with two RBIs and a run scored. Peyton Sheaffer added two hits, including a double, to pace the Mountaineers' attack.
While Tenino's season comes to a close, the Beavers can take pride in ending on a high note against their rivals. For Rainier, the focus now shifts to the Class 2B District 4 tournament, where they'll face Raymond/South Bend on Saturday in Napavine.
