DIGGERS DOMINATE: SUGAR-SALEM PUNCHES STATE TICKET WITH 6-1 WIN OVER HOMEDALE

The Sugar-Salem Diggers (21-4) secured their spot in the IHSAA 4A State Tournament with a convincing 6-1 victory over Homedale (19-12) on Saturday, completing a perfect 2-0 run through the regional tournament.

Game Highlights:

• Sugar-Salem wasted no time, jumping ahead in the first inning on Sam Chappell’s two-run triple
• The Diggers extended their lead in the third with Jack Gardner’s RBI triple and Ben Aldrich’s run-scoring single
• Dawson McInelly delivered a complete-game gem on the mound, allowing just two hits
• Sugar-Salem’s defense turned two critical double plays to maintain control throughout the contest

Offensive Leaders:

• Sam Chappell: Triple, 2 RBIs, 3 stolen bases
• Jack Gardner: Triple, 2 RBIs
• Ben Aldrich: 2-for-3 with an RBI
• Will Chappell: Patient approach with 3 walks

Pitching Performance:

• Dawson McInelly (W): Complete game, 7 IP, 2 H, 1 R (0 ER), 6 K, 2 BB – dominant from start to finish

Team Stats:

• Strong plate discipline with 6 walks
• Air-tight defense with 2 double plays
• Aggressive baserunning strategy throughout

The Diggers join Fruitland as regional representatives at the IHSAA 4A State Tournament, which will be held May 15-17 at Melaleuca Field in Idaho Falls, where they’ll look to capture a state championship.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​