A Legendary Induction
On a crisp Saturday in Raymond, Minnesota, the community gathered to celebrate the 2016 state champion Rockets and to welcome longtime manager Butch Steen into the Minnesota Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame. The ceremony, held at the Ray Steen Field, underscored a career that spans more than six decades, during which Steen compiled a 724‑440 record and guided the Rockets to 17 state tournaments, including the 2016 Class C title.
Steen’s influence extends beyond the win‑loss column. He revived the franchise in 1989 after a dormant season and helped found the Corn Belt League, providing a competitive outlet for small‑town programs across the region. His dedication has turned the Rockets into a perennial contender and a source of pride for the town of Raymond.
The 2016 Championship Game
The 2016 state final pitted the Rockets against the Milroy Yankees in a tightly contested battle that ended 7‑5 in Raymond’s favor. Key moments included a two‑run home run by Isaac Call in the fifth inning and a clutch two‑out, two‑run single by Brady Kienitz in the eighth that broke a 5‑5 tie. Both players have since remained integral to the program, with Kienitz now teaching and coaching in Montevideo, while Call continues to mentor younger athletes.
The game’s Most Valuable Player, Tyler Steen, Butch’s son, exemplified the family’s deep roots in the sport, delivering a standout performance that capped a memorable tournament. The victory not only added another trophy to the Rockets’ storeroom but also reinforced the team’s reputation for resilience and community spirit.
Looking Ahead
The induction banquet will take place on September 19 at the River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud, where the 2026 class of honorees — including Tim Beier, Dale Mackedanz, Gary Schleper, Greg Odegard and Allen Drexler — will be celebrated alongside Steen. As the Rockets look to build on their recent successes, the organization remains committed to nurturing talent, preserving tradition, and honoring the figures who have shaped its legacy.