Babe Ruth team wins state championship

BUTTE — The Mission Valley Babe Ruth All-Stars returned home last weekend with the state championship, and will next turn their sights to the regional tourney early next month.

They started things off right by winning the first two games last Thursday at the state tourney. First they knocked off Bozeman, 16-3, and North Valley Choteau, 11-1. On Friday, Mission Valley lost to South Valley Bitterroot, 14-9. In that game Tim Rausch and Xavier Morigeau both connected with the ball, knocking a homer each.

On Saturday the All-Stars faced Glendive and had no problem winning 11-1.

After pool play was over the state tourney officially started with a single-elimination format. Mission Valley knocked off Butte 5-3. On Sunday with only four teams left, the All-Stars played a tough game against Helena and after being behind most of the game, rallied back to win 7-5. The win against Helena put Mission Valley in the championship game against South Valley, the only team they had lost to during pool play.

The All-stars were eager for revenge and had no problem rolling over Bitterroot, 15-4, and picking up the title as state champs.

Morigeau was chosen as the tournament most valuable player for his outstanding play.

The team will travel to regionals in Bedford, Ore. on August 2.