A pivotal contest in Alaska's baseball circuit
The Gastineau Channel Little League Majors All-Stars edged Ketchikan 12-8 in a high-stakes matchup that turned the tournament on its head. The win forced a title-deciding game scheduled for Tuesday, with both squads now vying for the state championship.
Juneau drew first blood, striking early and building a comfortable lead that stretched throughout much of the contest. Pitchers Cooper Duval, Cash Stekoll and Max Metzgar combined to keep Ketchikan at bay, while hitters such as Eli Mulvey, Carter Talatoa and Landon Love contributed key runs.
Ketchikan refused to go quietly. Jase Heaton’s grand slam in the opening inning sparked a rally, but the Juneau offense answered with steady production. Other notable contributors included Colt Winkleman, Sebastian Nelson and Indiana Strong, who helped maintain the edge.
The tournament has been a gauntlet of elimination rounds, with both teams advancing through multiple stages. The winner will travel to the state tournament in Ketchikan, then on to regionals in San Bernardino, California, and potentially to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
With the championship on the horizon, coaches and fans alike are counting on standout performances from players like Jase Heaton, Kalon Herman and Roger Axelson. The upcoming game promises to showcase the depth of talent across Alaska’s Little League landscape.