From the first pitch, the matchup between the #9 LaSalle Tigers and the #8 Haynesville Golden Tornado felt like a classic. The game featured tight defense, clutch hitting, and momentum swings that kept both crowds on edge from start to finish. But sadly, LaSalle’s great season ended against Haynesville 5-4 last Thursday on the final play of the game.
Haynesville opened the scoring in the second after they hit an RBI scoring one run. But LaSalle came back and took the lead in the top of the third. Mason Lee singled, scoring two runs, to give LaSalle the advantage, 2-1.
Haynesville took the lead back in the bottom of the third inning after they hit a sacrifice fly, and singled to left field, each scoring one run.
The Tigers then re-took the lead in the top of the fourth. Luke Lasiter singled scoring two runs to make it 4-3. With another RBI, Haynesville tied the game 4-4 in the bottom of the sixth, and then came across some luck in the bottom of the 7th on a base hit to get the win.
Lasiter stepped on the hill first for LaSalle. The right-handed freshman surrendered six hits and five runs (three earned) over six and onethird innings, striking out nine and walking four.
Brodie Kirkland, Mason Lee, and Lasiter each collected one hit for the Tigers. Lee and Lasiter each drove in two runs, and Lee stole two bases to pair with the two runs he drove in. The boys showed elite base running accumulating four stolen bases for the game.
It was the kind of ending that stings, but also the kind that proves that this team belongs on the big stage in the post season. What stands out most isn’t the final score, it’s the development. This Tigers squad grew in every measurable way year-to-year: improvement in fundamentals, stronger team chemistry that showed in tight games, and more confident play against tough opponents. They didn’t just compete – they evolved into a well-rounded team.
The 2026 Tigers baseball team leaves behind a blueprint of grit and growth that the young squad will use as a foundation to build upon next year. This year the finish was in the Top 10 and next year the ceiling will be even higher as head coach Josh Boyett continues to raise the standard.
A special thank you is extended to the team’s two seniors, Jessey Stowe and Tuff Street, for pouring into the program and representing the community well. Next year’s squad will feature a veteran team of Tigers with much experience – including the post season and a hunger to go even further.
Go Tigers!
