2025 55+ National
Yonder Travelers 9, West Coast Gamecocks 4
‘Travelers Sweep 50+ and 55+ Fall Classic National Divisions’
The 55+ Yonder Travelers etched their name into MSBL history with a hard-earned championship at the 2025 MSBL Fall Classic, capturing the 55+ National Division title in what many considered one of the most competitive Fall Classics in recent memory. Battling a deep, talented, and battle-tested field of top-tier teams, Yonder finished the week with an impressive 6–2 record, proving their resilience, depth, and championship pedigree against a highly skilled and stout stable of teams.
From the opening round-robin games, it was clear the Travelers were locked in. The Yonder team was forced early on to rally around their fallen star shortstop, Kirt Bennett, and it brought them together with a keen focus on their brotherhood.
The entire tournament was defined by grit, timely execution, and leadership up and down the roster. Perhaps most impactful was Chris Hux, who delivered one of the most dominant all-around performances of the entire Fall Classic. Hux was an absolute beast all week, earning two wins on the mound, consistently delivering in big moments at the plate, and providing steady, winning leadership.
His combination of power, poise, and presence earned him Tournament MVP honors, a fitting recognition for a player who set the tone for Yonder’s championship run.
The playoff journey began in the Quarterfinals, where the Travelers defeated the Mustangs Baseball Club, 8–3. Paul Fortney earned the win with a strong performance on the mound, backed by exceptional defense and timely hitting throughout the lineup. Offensively, Scott Marabell, Dan Kopitzke, and Frank Chandler led the way, each collecting two hits, as Yonder controlled the game from start to finish.
In the Semi-Finals, the Travelers faced a familiar and formidable opponent—the Phitin Pot Roasts, a deep squad that had previously handed Yonder a tough loss earlier in the week with a near-flawless effort. This time, the outcome was different.
Dan Kopitzke took the ball and delivered under pressure, leading the Travelers to a gritty 6–4 revenge victory. Mike Kalfopoulos showcased the depth of Yonder’s lineup, going a perfect 3-for-3, while Rob Kluba and Chris Hux each chipped in two hits.
Sam Romeo played stellar defense, making some key plays, including a crucial late-inning catch. Robert Clark delivered a key base hit and scored a crucial run, exemplifying the team-first approach that defined the week.
The Championship Game pitted Yonder against longtime arch rivals, the West Coast Gamecocks, led by their coach, the notorious Mike Noto. This set the stage for a classic showdown. Kopitzke—known in baseball circles as “Gringo Descalzo”—returned to the mound after his semi-final complete game and was nothing short of brilliant. He delivered a complete-game gem, shutting down the Gamecocks while the Travelers’ offense erupted for 14 hits.
Rudy Cesario, Frank Chandler, Jeff Chrismon, and Steve Frellick each recorded two hits, while MVP Chris Hux drove in two key runs. Defensively, Yonder turned three double plays, extinguishing Gamecock threats before they could bloom.
Beyond the wins and statistics, the 2025 MSBL Fall Classic showcased the camaraderie, trust, and family ethos that define the Yonder Travelers. This championship was not just earned, it was shared, built on unity, resilience, and a relentless commitment to each other.