Stratford set for state semifinal showdown against Brookstone

The stage is set for the Stratford baseball team as they prepare to clash defending-champion Brookstone this Friday. Despite having just two seniors on this year’s squad, the Eagles are two wins away from getting a chance to play for a state championship. Stratford’s in search of its first baseball state title since 2007.

“We’re in the final four. We’re in the semis, which is great, but now when you get here, you want to go ahead and win it,” head baseball coach Barry Veal said. “Hopefully, we’ll be doing this interview again next week.”

“A state championship would mean a lot to the team,” junior shortstop Bobby Wooten added. “Bringing another state [title] in 2026 would mean a lot to the team, and to the whole Stratford Academy.”

The Eagles will get their shot Friday in Columbus as they clash with Brookstone in the state semifinals.