The 4-A quarterfinals continued at the state baseball tournament on Wednesday. Iowa City West took advantage of a pair of Ottumwa miscues to score three times in the top of the seventh as the Trojans rallied for 4-2 victory over the Bulldogs. Iowa City West coach Charlie Stumpff says these teams have a history of wild finishes. He says this is the fourth time in five years they’ve met and all the games have been close.Ottumwa had scored two runs in the bottom of the sixth inning and took a 2-1 lead into the final inning. Bulldog coach Ryan Woods says they had some chances, but had too many mistakes to overcome.Brad South had an inside the park homer and senior ace Justin Toole tossed a five-hitter and struck out 11 as fifth rated Lewis Central blanked Fort Dodge 2-0.Toole says it helps to have a good defense behind you. He says the good defense helped and his catcher really helped when his curveball was breaking wildly. Toole says despite being the favorite the Titans did not feel any pressure. He says it’s a big thrill to be able to play in the state tournament.Fort Dodge coach Matt Elsbecker says the tournament run was a big step for the program. He says just three years ago they only had six or eight wins, so they seniors on the team came a long way. Elsbecker says, “the Dodgers will be back, I can guarantee you that.”Ankeny downed Clinton in the final game of the night 12-2 in six innings.
