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Edgerton Today
By the People, for the People
Benson Braves Open Season with Stellar Pitching Performance
Senior Max Nygaard strikes out 11 in 3-2 win over Minneota
Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:05am
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A cubist interpretation of the Benson Braves' hard-fought season-opening victory over Minneota, capturing the raw energy and competitive spirit of high school baseball.Edgerton TodayThe Benson Braves baseball team opened their season with a 3-2 victory over Minneota on Monday. Senior pitcher Max Nygaard had an impressive outing, striking out 11 batters and allowing just one hit over 6 2/3 innings. The Braves rallied from an early 2-0 deficit, scoring three runs in the third inning to take the lead and hold on for the win.
Why it matters
The win marks the first time the Braves have won a season-opener since 2021, and comes against a Minneota team that had a 15-9 record last season. This strong start could set the tone for a successful season for the Benson baseball program.
The details
Minneota scored two unearned runs in the third inning, but the Braves responded in the bottom half of the inning. Nygaard scored Benson's first run by stealing home, and Landon Skarsten later scored on an error to tie the game. Dylan Sanders then gave the Braves the lead by scoring on a balk. Skarsten and Taylor Ellingson led Benson at the plate with two hits each.
- The game was played on Monday, March 30, 2026.
- Benson hosts Brandon-Evansville on Tuesday, April 7.
- Benson's first Prairie Conference game is at St. John's Prep on Thursday, April 9 in Collegeville.
The players
Max Nygaard
The senior right-handed pitcher for the Benson Braves, who struck out 11 batters and allowed just one hit over 6 2/3 innings in the season-opening win.
Landon Skarsten
The senior shortstop for the Benson Braves, who went 2-for-3 at the plate and scored a run in the win.
Taylor Ellingson
The senior designated hitter for the Benson Braves, who went 2-for-2 at the plate.
Logan Pohlen
The Minneota player who scored the game's opening run after being hit by a pitch.
Ian Myhre
The Minneota player who reached base on an error and scored a run.
What’s next
Benson hosts Brandon-Evansville on Tuesday, April 7, followed by their first Prairie Conference game at St. John's Prep on Thursday, April 9 in Collegeville.
The takeaway
The Benson Braves' strong season-opening win, led by a dominant pitching performance from senior Max Nygaard, suggests the team could be poised for a successful season after struggling to win season openers in recent years. This early victory against a tough Minneota squad sets the Braves up well for their upcoming conference schedule.