Utah youth baseball team wins prestigious award, third place at national championship
Aug 26, 2025, 5:55 PM | Updated: 7:03 pm
(Utah Battle Baseball League)
(Utah Battle Baseball League)
SALT LAKE CITY — It was a week to remember for a group of talented 13-year-old baseball players from Carbon and Emery Counties, as they took on the nation’s best at the Babe Ruth World Series. Representing the Pacific Southwest Region, the Utah youth baseball team known as “Battle” earned its spot after clinching the regional title in Price, Utah.
Battle stormed through the tournament, winning three out of four games and securing a place in the single-elimination bracket. Head Coach Darek Martinez reflected on the team’s resilience after a tough late-night loss.
“The boys showed how much they love the game and how they can bounce right back,” said Martinez. “We regrouped quickly, got some food thanks to our host family, and told them, ‘Everyone’s got to get to bed — we’re back at the field by 8:45.’”
The next morning, the team responded with a 7–3 victory, six of those runs coming with two outs. Martinez said the team’s name was no accident.
“They never quit. Whether they’re down or up, they just keep battling. That’s why they’re the Battle Boys,” he said.
Utah youth baseball team shares lessons learned
Though Battle fell to Tallahassee, Florida in the semifinals — who went on to win the championship — they got sweet redemption by defeating Eagle Pass, Texas, the only team to beat them in the open rounds.
Players shared their favorite moments:
- Jacen Urbanik, catcher: “I tagged a runner out at home after a throw from third. That was my favorite play.”
- Jaxton Smith, shortstop: “I chased down a hard-hit ball up the middle and got the out at first. But I’ll also remember playing poker with other teams and making friends from all over — Australia, Connecticut, Washington.”
- Alex Martinez, second baseman: “I dove for a curving line drive and caught it. That was cool. But hanging out with other teams, playing shuffleboard, and making connections — that was amazing.”
- Jacen Cowley, utility player: “At the awards ceremony, they announced the Batting Champ with a 0.529 average from Price, Utah — and it was me. I didn’t expect it, but I did it.”
Utah youth baseball team wins prestigious award
Battle didn’t just impress on the field — it earned the prestigious Heart of the Babe Ruth Sportsmanship Award, a testament to team members’ character and conduct throughout the tournament.
Coach Martinez said he is proud of the team.
“They carry themselves so well — picking up after themselves, talking respectfully to adults, enjoying the experience. They’re amazing young men,” he said.
From thrilling plays to late-night camaraderie, Battle left its mark on the national stage — and brought home more than just trophies. It brought home memories that will last a lifetime.
The team was celebrated on Aug. 25 with a parade in Price, Utah.
Mariah Maynes contributed to this report.
