Spokane Expos Reach Babe Ruth WS

SPOKANE, WA - A Spokane Indians Youth Baseball team will be making an appearance in the 13U Babe Ruth World Series this year after a thrilling finish to the Pacific Northwest Regional Tournament last week. The Spokane Expos went undefeated in the tournament and punched their ticket to the World Series in Ottumwa, Iowa with an extra-innings victory over their hometown-rival Clash on July 31. 

"I'm really proud of these kids and how hard they've worked all year," said head coach, Brian Morintini. "We are excited for the chance to keep playing and showcase Spokane to Iowa in the World Series."

The Expos, along with nine other teams from Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Washington and Alberta, played games in Medical Lake and Spokane from July 26-31. After going 4-0 in pool play, the Expos defeated Richland 8-2 in the semi-finals before topping the Clash, who had defeated them just 10 days earlier, to advance to the World Series. 

The 13U Spokane Expos are: Ryan Clay, David Dawson, Cameron Gross, Ben Hadley, Elijah Hainline, Ethan Hawes, Andrew Heesh, Sterling Lipscomb, Ricco Longo, Andrew Monson, Ethan Moriniti, Turk Riggan, and Laken Young. The team is coached by Ricco Longo, Brian Moriniti, and Steve Young.

"We're very proud to be sending a group of players and coaches that we know will represent Spokane with class," said Spokane Pony League President, Dana Richardson. "They are a competitive team and we look forward to them excelling in the World Series."

The Expos leave for Ottumwa next week to play in the World Series which runs from August 11-18. A GoFundMe account has been set up to help the Expos with expenses while in Iowa. Flights have been covered but they will need additional assistance with lodging, food, and other expenses. 

About the Indians
 
The Indians are the Short Season Class "A" affiliate for the Texas Rangers. For more information, please visit www.spokaneindians.com or call (509) 343-6886 (OTTO).