Cherokee River Indians Win IWBL World Series in Thrilling 6-Game Battle
In one of the most exhilarating championship series in IWBL history, the Cherokee River Indians emerged victorious over the Church Hill Rangers to capture the 2025 IWBL World Series title. The Indians clinched the series 4 games to 2, showcasing grit, resilience, and championship-level poise in front of their roaring fans at Pavilion Park.
Game 1: Rangers Strike First (CHR 4, CR 1)
The series opener saw Church Hill take advantage of early opportunities. Despite solid defense from the Indians, they struggled to find offense as the Rangers’ pitching staff controlled the pace. Jesus Hernandez opened the series with a rare unfavorable result. With a 4-1 win, the Rangers took a 1-0 series lead.
Game 2: Bounce Back at Home (CR 5, CHR 3)
Cherokee River responded like champions. Behind a big third inning and clutch hits from Jesus Hernandez and Rip Smith, the Indians evened the series. The home crowd erupted as Will Alpsteg sealed the 5-3 win with a three-strikeout last inning.
Game 3: Wildest Game in IWBL History (CR 18, CHR 17)
Game 3 was a slugfest for the ages. A combined 35 runs, lead changes every inning, and back-to-back-to-back homers from the Indians turned this into an instant classic. Pitcher Jesse Klans pitched the entire game till the last round of extra innings where Cherokee River activated Jesus Hernandez. Lots of scoring in a 18-17 win and giving Cherokee River a 2-1 series lead.
Game 4: Rangers Even the Series (CHR 6, CR 4)
Church Hill fought back in Game 4. Despite a late push from Cherokee River, the Rangers’ bullpen held strong. However Jesus Hernandez was on the mound taking a second loss in the series. Their 6-4 win tied the series again and set the stage for a critical Game 5.
Game 5: Statement on the Road (CR 4, CHR 3)
The official score was 4-3, but what mattered most was the result: a road win for the Indians. Capitalizing on Ranger errors and timely base running, Cherokee River took Game 5 and came home one win away from a title.
Game 6: Champions Crowned at Pavilion Park (CR 3, CHR 2)
With the series on the line, Cherokee River leaned on their veteran leaders. A tight 3-2 battle came down to the final inning. With two outs and the tying run on third, Will Alpsteg induced a grounder to short, and Mack Williams made the throw of a lifetime to end it.
The field erupted. Champagne flew. Goggles went on. The Cherokee River Indians were crowned IWBL World Champions.
Final Thoughts
From comeback wins to explosive offense and heroic pitching, this series had it all. The Indians proved why they’re the heart of the league — a team built on unity, hustle, and belief.
Congratulations to the 2025 IWBL Champions: The Cherokee River Indians.