Dalton Hiltibrand

Just four years into the programs existence and the Nemaha Central Thunder baseball team is headed to the 3A State tournament, carrying a 20-1 record into State after winning Regionals and a Big Seven League title.

All season multiple guys have contributed for the Thunder’s success and one of those guys that has been helping lead the way is senior, Dalton Hiltibrand. Hiltibrand led the Thunder offensive attack in the Regional semifinal 6-0 win over Pleasant Ridge as he was 4-4 with a double, home run, RBI and run scored.

In the Regional Championship Nemaha Central took on Oskaloosa and fell down 1-0 early but an RBI triple in the third by Dalton tied the game and the Thunder added two more runs to secure the 3-1 win to take the Regional crown. Hiltibrand posted a 2-4 performance at the plate in the Championship game with a triple, RBI and run scored.

On the season the Thunder senior ranks in the top three in several categories offensively on the team posting a .368 batting average with 25 hits, 23 runs scored, 12 RBI’s and 13 walks. Dalton has also made four appearances on the mound pitching six innings this season and has picked up a win on the mound.

The Thunder have only one loss and are riding a 14-game winning streak heading into the 3A State Tournament in Manhattan. Already a season to remember Hiltibrand and his Thunder teammates look to take the opportunity at State to put the final stamp on the great season.