Andrean 59ers Face Challenges On and Off the Field

The Andrean high school community faced a tough setback after a tornado struck on June 11, causing severe damage to both the school and the team’s baseball field. Despite these challenges, the Andrean 59ers advanced to the Class 3A state championship game. Junior third baseman Chase Nelson reflected on the situation, emphasizing the importance of unity. “It’s been really sad,” Nelson said. “But we got a lot closer as a team because we wanted to do it for the school and the community. We got here, but we just couldn’t do it.”

Ranked first in the state, the Andrean 59ers aimed to defend their title and secure a 10th championship. However, they were defeated 9-3 by the second-ranked Guerin Eagles at Victory Field. This was Guerin’s first appearance and victory in a state championship game. Andrean coach Dave Pishkur acknowledged the formidable competition. “First and foremost, all the credit to that team,” Pishkur said. “They were the far superior team today. There’s no question about it. They’re better than us. Their pitcher is good. They have more hitters than us.”

Chase Nelson contributed significantly to Andrean’s efforts, going 2-for-4 with a run-scoring single in the third inning. He also showcased his defensive skills at third base, making crucial plays in the fifth and sixth innings. Nelson pitched two innings without allowing an earned run. Andrean used five pitchers in the game, highlighting the strength of their pitching staff. “We’re here because of our pitching staff because we’re not a great hitting team,” Pishkur explained. “We walk nine guys and hit three guys, which is the worst we’ve done all year.”

“Credit to them. My hat’s off to them for getting us here. Just didn’t have their best game when we needed it, but still love them all.”

Guerin’s pitcher, Tate Troxell, an Alabama recruit, was a key player. He allowed just one run, struck out 12 batters, and showcased impressive velocity, described by Pishkur as the hardest they faced that year.

Nelson’s brother Tyler, who graduated in 2020, was also a notable player for Andrean, having been part of the 2018 and 2019 championship teams. Although Chase and his team fell short this time, he valued the experience. “It’s great,” Nelson noted. “Everyone should deserve a chance to come and play with the big crowd, with the nerves.”

Despite the adversity of losing their field and practicing under difficult conditions, Andrean fought hard. “It was no excuse,” Pishkur noted, recognizing the team’s struggles during the week of the game. With Andrean moving to Class 4A next season, Pishkur stressed the need for growth. “It is what it is,” he said. “What we’ll have to do is we’ll have to really get better. The one thing cool about our program is it’s next man up.”

Looking ahead, Pishkur sees potential in younger players, with a commitment to development and improvement. “We have some sophomores that are kind of waiting,” he observed. “I know these kids will work at it. They’ll get in the weight room. They’ll do the long-toss program. They’ll be coached up, and I think they’ll be better. But you know what? It’s 4A baseball, and that’s a lot harder than 3A.”