2024 Storm Claim First 18+ National Division Regular Season Title in Arizona MSBL

Arizona MSBL, 18+ National Division

‘Arizona Storm 18+ National Division Champions’

Submitted by Stephanie McLeester

The Arizona Storm finally won the 18+ National division of the Arizona MSBL after many successful seasons previously. The Storm have won the championship and various tournaments, but they were never able to win the division until now. The Storm put up their best record ever, 15-3.

The pitching is what really made the difference for the Storm this year. The team ERA was 1.88 and the team WHIP was a mere 1.05. The starting rotation of Justin Wright (6-1), Brian Chamberland (4-0), and Matt Acosta (2-0) put the Storm in a position to win every single game. The Storm’s bullpen was equally impressive with Maddux Minton, Rigoberto Zepeda Jr. (Junior), and Jesus Reyes regularly holding leads and shutting down comebacks all year.

Storm regular Shaun Cooper continued his outstanding hitting with a .444 AVG, 1.397 OPS (which led the league), and two home runs. Newcomer Nick Labella also lit up the board, sporting a .438 AVG, 1.143 OPS, and three stolen bases. Long-time Storm vet Bradley Keller put up the best numbers of his career, collecting a .404 AVG and a team-leading 23 hits.

Newcomers Timmy Porter and Zack Zellman also found themselves producing for the Storm on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. Second-year Stormers Wil Schommer and Connor Jones (who tied the league in most doubles) brought substantial offensive production and team leadership.

I could write a 1,000-word essay about every one of the guys and how they uniquely contributed to such an incredible season. While it was disappointing to lose the championship in game 3 of 3 in extra innings to our friendly rivals, the 2024 Storm team was the best we have ever had, and we look forward to more success in the future.