At West Salisbury Little League on Friday night, Montgomery County Little League defeated Berlin Little League 1 0 in an exciting pitcher’s duel to win the Maryland State Little League Championship.
Thanks to lights-out pitching and excellent defense, Montgomery County advanced through the state bracket and won the final after winning the District 2 Championship earlier this month. One of the team’s most reliable hitters this summer, Jaden Cuevas, singled in the fifth inning and later scored on a line drive to center field by Landon Hodges, ending the scoreless tie. That was the only run of the game. Cuevas, who hit four home runs this summer, stated, “I just tried to stay locked in and help the team however I could.” We have put in a lot of work this season; our practice, planning, and previous games have all led us to this point.
Landon Bounds of Berlin pitched a valiant full-game contest, giving up just four hits and striking out six. However, Montgomery County outscored him pitch for pitch thanks to a brilliant performance by starter Ben Murphy. Murphy held Berlin’s hitters in check with precise control and poise across 5.2 shutout innings, giving up just 3 hits, 0 walks, and 4 strikeouts.
Murphy stated, “I just concentrated on throwing strikes and trusting my defense because I knew it was going to be a close game.” I had the support of all the guys behind me. I’m pleased with our performance tonight. Although Montgomery County defeated Berlin 13–4 in a previous tournament match, the final was a considerably closer contest, capturing the excitement of a championship match.
Going to the Mid-Atlantic Regional in Bristol, ConnecticutAfter winning the state championship, Montgomery County moves on to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament, which will start on ESPN on August 3, 2025, in Bristol, Connecticut. The team has the opportunity to earn a spot in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, by representing Maryland against champions from Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C.
“We have a unique group of children,” Manager Adam Weber remarked. They always keep fighting, they never give up, and they play for each other. They manage to stay in the present and win even though we have fallen behind in all but one of our tournament matches this summer. We are honored to represent Maryland and are looking forward to what lies ahead in Bristol. Our five-year aim was to establish MCLL and get to regionals.
For this core group, the 2025 championship represents Montgomery County’s third consecutive Maryland State Championship—an historic accomplishment that highlights the league’s depth, coaching, and growth. After winning the 10U Maryland State Tournament in 2023 and the 11U championship in 2024, MCLL went on to win the 12U title this year. At the state level, the program is now well-established as an enduring force.
Although Montgomery County Little League has already made history, the trip is far from finished. The squad comes into the regional competition with a lot of enthusiasm and confidence because to their deep talent, good chemistry, and passion for the game. A trip to Williamsport is the ultimate aim, so keep an eye on Montgomery County as they represent Maryland on the regional stage.
