2024 Yard Goats Sweep Orioles for MABL AA Crown at MSBL/MABL of Southern Colorado

MSBL/MABL of Southern Colorado, MABL AA Division

Yard Goats 11, Orioles 6 (Game two in best-of-three Championship series sweep)

The Yard Goats triumphed in the 2024 MABL AA Division, breaking a three-year streak of runner-up finishes. After losing in the championship series each year to the Phantoms (formerly the Pines), the Goats returned stronger and more determined. This season marked a fresh start under new manager Robbie Unsell, whose leadership helped propel the team to victory.

Veteran players Terryn Price, Justin Smith, and Joe Hayes were instrumental throughout the season, providing experience and consistency at the plate and in the field. Key contributions also came from newcomers, including Brayden Dillingham, who powered the lineup with his team-leading home runs, and Hunter McWilliams, who dominated on the mound, leading the team in strikeouts and saves.

The Yard Goats claimed the 2024 MABL AA championship by sweeping the Orioles in the series, winning decisively 9-1 and 11-6. Justin Smith shined, racking up five hits in the series and capping off a stellar season in which he led the team with a remarkable .544/.634/.684 triple slash line.

Closer Hunter McWilliams was dominant in both games, pitching a total of five innings, striking out 10 batters, and allowing just two hits. His contributions weren’t limited to the mound—he also had three hits in Game one, falling just a home run short of hitting for the cycle.

Thanks to his outstanding performance both as a pitcher and at the plate, McWilliams was named the MVP of the championship series, cementing his place as the team’s key player in their title run.

The Yard Goats’ 2024 season was a true display of teamwork, resilience, and determination, earning them the long-awaited championship title.