The Astoria Youth Baseball Under‑14 Babe Ruth League team captured the championship after a dramatic comeback against Banks High School, rallying in the final inning to secure a hard‑fought victory.
Coached by Aaron Barendse and Matt Starley, the squad displayed relentless determination, turning a late deficit into a decisive win that sparked celebration among players, families and the broader community.
A Comeback for the Ages
Key contributions came from players such as Cooper Hartley, Cutter Barendse, Tomas Banuelos, Sabian Gillum, Paul Schacher and Jack Larson, whose performances helped swing the momentum and seal the win.
The triumph was followed by historic recognition for three of the players, who later represented Astoria in the all‑state Oregon Bowl, competing against the state’s top sixth, seventh and eighth graders in Corvallis.
Coach Aaron Barendse described the win as a bittersweet finale, noting it was his last season guiding the team, while the community celebrated the young athletes’ hard work and dedication.