The Gastineau Channel Little League Majors Baseball All-Stars are gearing up for the District 2 tournament in Ketchikan, a competition that could take them all the way to the state, regional and ultimately the World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
The squad, under the guidance of head coach Ron Winkelman and assistants Spencer Stekoll, Nick Nelson and Jason Love, was recently honored on the field during a matchup between Auke Bay Post 25 and East Post 34, a moment that highlighted the players' hard work and dedication.
If the team emerges victorious in Ketchikan, they will move on to the state tournament back in Ketchikan, then chase a regional title in San Bernardino, California, before earning a spot at the Little League World Series.
A lineup of rising stars
The roster reads like a miniature MLB draft, with each youngster boasting a favorite position, a go‑to food and a major‑league idol. Carter Talatoa, an outfielder who loves steak and admires Shohei Ohtani, leads a group that also includes third‑baseman and pitcher Charlie Boghosian, who favors spaghetti and meatballs and follows Bo Jackson.
Cash Stekoll, a center‑field pitcher with a taste for chicken‑fried steak, roots for Ezequiel Tovar, while Gavin Ludeman, versatile in the infield and on the mound, idolizes Randy Johnson and enjoys steak. Indiana Strong, Max Metzgar, Kalon Herman, Evans Mallott, Landon Love, Colt Winkelman, Sebastian Nelson, Cooper Duval, Eli Mulvey and others each bring their own culinary and baseball inspirations, from ravioli to pizza, from Aaron Judge to Chris Sale.
Coach Winkelman has repeatedly praised the boys for their commitment, noting that the blend of talent, teamwork and personal passion could make this season one of the most memorable in the program’s history.