One of the hardest things to do in sports is repeating as Champions, even tougher is trying to win three in a row or as the great Michael Jordan once said “Three-peat.” In a league that got even better over the off-season, other teams around the league are making moves and trying to bring down the Grays.
Minnoka kicked off their season with an impressive surge right out the gate, quickly establishing themselves as league favorites again, even though they were not the favorites this offseason to win in a league wide poll. Their early performances showcase a formidable combination of skill, teamwork, and depth, setting the tone for what promises to be another championship-contending year.
In their season opener, the Grays announced their presence with authority over the Capitol City Cannons with a resounding 17-0 victory. Highlighted by a dominant third inning where they scored 10 runs, the team showcased offensive firepower highlighted by Dustin Rode’s three RBIs. Pitcher Ben Schroeder earned the win, allowing just one hit over three innings with six strikeouts. The team continued their winning ways with a commanding 13-3 win over the Chaska Voyageurs, where Jack Nelson led with four hits and nine strikeouts on the mound. The Grays were a little wounded being beaned ten times and walking seven but had enough icy hot to cap the week with a strong 5-0 shutout against the St. Michael Angels, with Schroeder again shining in a seven-inning effort. To close out May the Grays exploded for 24 runs in win over Red West. Jack Nelson got the win and fanned eight in five innings, he also went 4-4 at the plate with 4 runs. Doug Groebner went 2-2 with a double and triple. Every Grays in the lineup got a hit and scored a run. Great way to enter Memorial Weekend and close out the month.
Despite their early success, the league-wide perception has been shifting, with many overlooking the Grays' proven track record as back-to-back champions and picking other trendy picks. This underestimation only fuels their motivation to defend their title and demonstrate their continued dominance.
Adding to their already impressive roster, the team has made strategic new additions—Ben Schroeder, Taylor Nelson, Ryan Bruns, and Casey Van Krevelan—who have already made impactful contributions. Schroeder’s pitching prowess has been a cornerstone and the guys are excited to see T. Nelson get more innings on the bump come June, while Bruns and Van Krevelan have provided vital offensive support and defensive stability, further deepening the team’s talent and versatility.
As the season progresses, the Minnoka Grays are poised not only to defend their championship but also to remind the league why they are a force to be reckoned with—proving that their talent, experience, and new additions will keep them at the top. It’s business as usual.
