In a thrilling pitcher’s duel on Friday night, Montgomery County Little League edged Berlin Little League 1–0 to capture the Maryland State Little League Championship at West Salisbury Little League.
After winning the District 2 Championship earlier this month, Montgomery County rolled through the state bracket and emerged victorious in the final thanks to lights-out pitching and outstanding defense. The game’s only run came in the fifth inning when Jaden Cuevas, one of the team’s most consistent hitters this summer, singled and later scored on a line drive to center field by Landon Hodges, breaking the scoreless tie. “I just tried to stay locked in and help the team however I could,” said Cuevas, who hit four home runs this summer. “We’ve worked hard all season; all of our preparation, practice, and prior games prepared us for this moment.”
Berlin’s Landon Bounds delivered a gutsy complete game performance, allowing just four hits and striking out six. But Montgomery County matched him pitch for pitch behind a masterclass from starter Ben Murphy. Murphy went 5.2 shutout innings, surrendering just 3 hits, 0 walks, and striking out 4 while keeping Berlin’s bats in check with pinpoint control and poise.
“I knew it was going to be a close game, so I just focused on throwing strikes and trusting my defense,” Murphy said. “Every guy behind me had my back. I’m proud of how we played tonight.” This was a rematch of an earlier tournament game in which Montgomery County topped Berlin 13–4, but the final was a much tighter battle, reflecting the intensity of a championship atmosphere.
Headed to Bristol, CT for Mid-Atlantic Regional
With the state title secured, Montgomery County advances to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament in Bristol, Connecticut, beginning August 3, 2025 on ESPN. The team will represent Maryland against champions from Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Washington, D.C., with a chance to earn a berth in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
“We’ve got a special group of kids,” said Manager Adam Weber. “They play for each other, they never give up, and they always keep battling. We’ve been behind in all but one of our tournament games this summer, but they find a way to stay in the moment and come out on top. We had a five-year plan to put MCLL on the map and make it to regionals—we’re honored to represent Maryland and are excited for what’s ahead in Bristol.”
Montgomery County Little League’s journey is already one for the books, but it’s far from over. With strong chemistry, deep talent, and a love for the game, the team enters the regional tournament full of momentum and belief. Stay tuned as Montgomery County represents Maryland on the regional stage with their sights set on the ultimate goal: a trip to Williamsport.
Article provided by Montgomery County Little League