The University of Sioux Falls baseball team closed out the regular season in style, grinding out an 11-9 victory over Minot State on Saturday at Corbett Field. It was the kind of win that builds momentum heading into the postseason—a blend of clutch hitting, timely relief pitching, and never-say-die energy.

The Cougars found themselves in an early 2-0 hole after the Beavers struck in the third inning, but they responded like a team on a mission. The fourth inning was the turning point, as USF exploded for five runs. Casey Sehr ignited the rally with a booming two-run double to center field, tying the game. Then came the spark off the bench: Myles Rees delivered a pinch-hit RBI single to give the Cougars their first lead. From there, the floodgates opened, with Dominic Vogel, William Edwards, Mitch Iliff, and Brady Schafer all contributing to the rally, pushing the lead to 5-2.

Minot State clawed back to within one in the bottom of the fourth, but the Cougars kept their foot on the gas. In the fifth, they answered with two more runs, highlighted by Edwards’ two-run single to center. Justin Johnson and Cullen Verville added crucial insurance runs in the later innings, giving the bullpen some breathing room.

On the mound, Taylor Morrissette battled through early traffic and a bases-loaded jam in the third, keeping the game within reach. Then Jake Pruchniak and Jack Richeson took over, delivering the kind of shutdown relief that wins close games. Richeson slammed the door in the final frames, securing the win and sending the Cougars into the postseason on a high note.

For a team that prides itself on grit and resilience, this win was a perfect way to cap the regular season. The Cougars showed they can win in multiple ways—whether it’s the long ball, small ball, or leaning on their bullpen. As they turn their attention to the playoffs, they’ll carry the confidence of a team that knows how to finish.