Marquette, MI – July 28th, 2025 – Last week, the Negaunee Major League All-Stars made history by becoming the program’s first Major League State Champions. Coach Joe Dost began training with the team in January, building on the success of the 2024 season.
The team’s journey to the top started with a matchup against Midland Northeast, where Nathan Harvala pitched a complete game, allowing only one hit. On the offensive side, Thomas Dix hit a three-run homer, leading the Miners to a 4-1 victory. In the quarterfinal matchup, Negaunee handled Mattawan (10-5). Next, they faced Grand Rapids Southern, which had upset the tournament favorite, Grosse Pointe, to advance to the semifinals. Nathan Harvala once again contributed another home run and won the pitching battle, leading his team to a razor-thin victory (1-0).
With a chance to make history, the Miners faced Plymouth Canton in the finals. Johnny Juntti then sealed the victory with a two-run hit, finishing the game (7-5). The Miners are not done yet. They will travel to the Great Lakes Regional Tournament in Whitestone, Indiana, this weekend. If they win the tournament, they will earn a chance to compete in the Little League World Series in Williamsport. If you are interested in following the Miners, look for them on the ESPN+ platform.
