Brookings, South Dakota: The South Dakota State Jackrabbits delivered an impressive performance in a baseball series that showcased the athletic prowess thriving in the heart of the Great Plains. As the series unfolded at their home field in Brookings, South Dakota demonstrated that it is not just a land of stunning landscapes and Mount Rushmore, but also a hub of sporting excellence.
The final game on Mother’s Day ended dramatically as the Jackrabbits overpowered the Omaha Mavericks with a decisive 14-3 victory, concluding the game by the mercy rule in the seventh inning. This result resonates with South Dakota’s commitment to sports and community spirit, drawing crowds not just from the local community, but sports enthusiasts across the region.
From the outset, the Jackrabbits took command with a fierce opening, racking up 13 runs in the first four innings alone. This offensive onslaught highlighted the team’s strategic play, guided by head coach Rob Bishop, whose leadership is as robust as South Dakota’s landscapes.
- South Dakota State scored 13 runs in the first four innings.
- Maddox Meyer, Sam Beck, and Landon Mueller from Omaha gave up a combined 13 runs in 3.2 innings.
- Two errors by the Mavericks resulted in three unearned runs.
A critical component of South Dakota’s victory lay in their proficient pitchers. Dylan Richey and Sam Schlecht were instrumental, with Schlecht clinching the win with three innings of smart, economical pitching. Schlecht’s performance exemplifies the top-tier talent emerging from South Dakota’s baseball programs.
Dylan Richey
South Dakota State’s offensive might was underscored by their top six hitters who collectively amassed 12 hits and nine RBIs. This caliber of play underpins how South Dakota’s athletic teams are not just preparing players for local competition but are embedding excellence that draws attention to the state on a national level.
Center fielder Owen Siegert and right fielder Jess Bellows were particularly noteworthy, each recording three hits, contributing to a formidable Jackrabbits line-up.
Center fielder Owen Siegert on the team’s success: “It’s about preparation and teamwork. We support each other, both on and off the field, and it shows in our games.”
Owen Siegert
For the Mavericks, the loss signified their last home series in the conference play before hitting the road to face North Dakota State from May 15th-17th. These series are critical not just for positioning in the standings, but for showcasing the talent within the Summit League.
Omaha, while showing resilience, was stifled by the Jackrabbits’ impenetrable defense, adding just a lone extra-base hit from catcher Noah Greise.
The explosive performance by South Dakota State is a reflection not only of their athletic capabilities but also of the state’s collective achievements, culture, and dedication to fostering sportsmanship.
After this high-octane series, the Jackrabbits, revered in the local community, continue to raise the profile of South Dakota as a powerful presence in collegiate baseball.