Vikings dominate at the plate and on the mound in a banner season
The Badger Amateur Baseball Association South Central Division wrapped up its 2025 season with a flourish, as outstanding individual performances were recognized in the annual Hitting and Pitching Awards. The Scandinavia Vikings proved to be the powerhouse of the division, capturing top honors in both hitting and pitching categories amid stiff competition from rivals such as the Plover Pterodactyls and the New London Irish.
Hitting Awards
With bats blazing throughout the season, the Scandinavia Vikings made their mark on the division’s leaderboards. Braden Hunkins emerged as the preeminent hitter, topping the charts with a remarkable .444 batting average. Hunkins’ consistency at the plate was nothing short of extraordinary, as he anchored the Vikings’ offense from opening day through the final game. His discipline, quick hands, and ability to find gaps made him a nightmare for opposing pitchers.
Close behind, RJ Rosenthal, also of the Vikings, posted a sterling .440 average, solidifying his reputation as one of the most reliable bats in the lineup. Rosenthal’s approach to hitting enabled him to rack up key hits in clutch situations, often providing the spark for rallies.
The Vikings’ dominance didn’t stop with the top two slots. Caleb Bembenek rounded out the trio with a .406 average, earning the division’s third-place hitting award. Bembenek’s blend of speed and power kept defenders on their toes and contributed greatly to Scandinavia’s run production. Together, Hunkins, Rosenthal, and Bembenek formed a relentless core that propelled the Vikings to the top of the standings.
Fourth place saw a three-way tie, emphasizing just how fierce and competitive the South Central Division’s offensive scene was this year. Jake Hoffman, another Viking, posted a .400 average, sharing the honor with Josh Marcione of the Plover Pterodactyls and Ethan Herzfeldt of the New London Irish, both matching the .400 mark.
Pitcher of the Year: Zblewski’s Masterclass
While the Vikings dominated at the plate, their pitching staff proved to be equally formidable. Cyle Zblewski was named Pitcher of the Year, a testament to his exceptional performance and indomitable presence on the mound.
Zblewski compiled a 5-1 record over 38 innings pitched, demonstrating remarkable stamina and control. He threw three complete games, repeatedly shutting down opposing lineups and giving his team a chance to win every outing. Even more impressive was his strikeout tally: 31 punchouts on the season, illustrating his ability to overpower hitters with a mix of velocity and movement.
Perhaps the most telling statistic was Zblewski’s microscopic 0.47 ERA. Such dominance is rare at any level, and it speaks volumes about his command, poise, and ability to handle high-pressure situations. Opponents struggled to string together hits, and runs were nearly impossible to come by when Zblewski took the mound.
Team impact and season reflection
The Scandinavia Vikings’ success in both the hitting and pitching awards reflects a season marked by teamwork, preparation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Their players didn’t just rack up individual statistics — they contributed at every turn to a winning culture that prioritized both offense and defense.
With awards season now complete, players and coaches across the BABA South Central Division are already turning their attention to next year. The anticipation for the next season is palpable. Community support continues to grow.
Congratulations to all the award winners, especially the Scandinavia Vikings for their outstanding achievements.