Baseball Recap: East Central Starts Season with Win on the Road

East Central had to travel to play their first game of the season, but the final result was worth the trip. They put the hurt on the Carlton Bulldogs with a sharp 13-2 victory on Thursday. The Eagles not only won on Thursday, but they posted their biggest win since April 15, 2024.

Gradyn Swenson made a splash no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, not allowing a single earned run and allowing only two hits while striking out 12 over five innings pitched. Swenson was also solid in the batter's box, scoring three runs and stealing a base while going 1-for-4.

In other batting news, Xavior LeTexier was incredible, scoring four runs and stealing four bases while going 2-for-4. Shaw Youngberg was another key player, scoring a run and stealing three bases while getting on base in all three of his plate appearances.

East Central and Carlton will both get their first taste of in-conference action in their upcoming games. The Eagles will square off against rival Hinckley-Finlayson at 4:30 p.m. on Friday. Meanwhile, Carlton is set to take on their familiar foe Kelley at 2:00 p.m. on Friday.