Marshall Legion baseball eyes state success after ending 21-year drought
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NEW ULM -- After ending a 21-year state tournament drought, the Marshall Legion baseball team is ready to take on Minnesota’s best.
Marshall qualified for the 2026 Minnesota American Legion State Tournament for the first time since 2005, earning a spot in this week’s tournament in New Ulm and the surrounding area. Head coach Mitch Maxwell said the accomplishment is the result of a team that has embraced every challenge throughout the summer.
"I am very excited for the kids," Maxwell said. "The team has overcome any challenge that has come their way extremely well. They ask tons of questions and take the answers to heart."
Marshall’s postseason run has been fueled by a balanced roster rather than one standout performer. Maxwell said the team’s ability to receive contributions from different players has made it difficult for opponents to focus on any one individual.
"What makes this group special is how different guys answer the call at different times," Maxwell said. "We have some strong senior leadership, but everyone has stepped up at different times."
That depth has been evident throughout the postseason, with different players delivering key hits, defensive plays and pitching performances in critical moments.
According to Maxwell, the team’s willingness to sacrifice individual success for the good of the group has been one of its defining characteristics.
"The mentality this team has is what stands out about them," he said. "The guys are willing to do anything needed to win. There have been guys who did not play a lot in spring, but the coaches knew they would have opportunities and they have made the most of those chances."
Maxwell also credited the players’ experience competing in pressure situations outside of baseball. Many members of the roster have played meaningful games in other sports, something he believes has helped the team remain composed during its postseason run.
"I expect a tough and challenging road," Maxwell said. "The team motto is, 'Stay within themselves, never too high, never too low.'"
Marshall will face a difficult opening day at the state tournament with two games on Thursday. The Tigers open play against Brainerd at 10:30 a.m. before taking on Farmington at 6 p.m.
Maxwell said the team appreciates the support it has received from both families and the local Legion organization throughout the season.
"The team and I are very thankful for the parents and what they have done," he said. "We are also very thankful for the support from the Legion post."
Regardless of what happens this week, Marshall has already accomplished something no Legion team from the community has done in more than two decades. The Tigers now hope to extend their season by making another memorable run on the state’s biggest stage.