Dillon Cubs Fall to Belgrade Bandits 5-2 in Second Game of State District Tournament in Butte

BUTTE, Mont. — The Dillon Cubs dropped their second game of the Montana American Legion Baseball State District Tournament on Friday, falling 5-2 to the Belgrade Bandits "A" despite outhitting Belgrade 6-5.

The loss moves Dillon into an elimination game, where the Cubs will look to keep their postseason alive when they face the Butte Miners later today in Butte.

Belgrade Scores Early, Holds Off Dillon Rally

The Bandits wasted little time getting on the scoreboard, taking a 1-0 lead in the opening inning after Chance Stephens delivered an RBI single.

Belgrade added insurance in the fifth inning when Max Zimmer connected on a two-run home run to left field, extending the Bandits' advantage.

Although the Cubs continued to put runners on base throughout the game, they were unable to string together the timely hits needed to overcome the deficit.

Moreni Battles on the Mound

Trenton Moreni turned in another solid performance for Dillon despite taking the loss.

The right-hander pitched 5⅔ innings, allowing five runs, three earned, on five hits while striking out six and walking four.

Belgrade starter Memphis Wagner earned the victory after limiting the Cubs to two runs on six hits over 6⅓ innings, striking out six.

Brayton VanDyken closed out the game to earn the save.

Cubs Record Six Hits

The Dillon offense produced six hits, with Trenton Moreni, Kanin Engelhardt, Gordon Broeder, Andrew Bartlome, Ben Peacock, and Landon Lovaas each collecting one hit.

Moreni also drove in both Dillon runs, finishing 1-for-2 to lead the Cubs offensively.

Zimmer Leads Belgrade

Belgrade was led by Max Zimmer, who finished 3-for-4 with a two-run home run and two RBIs.

Cade Thomas added pressure on the bases with two stolen bases, while the Bandits played strong defense by turning two double plays.

Cubs Face Elimination Against Butte

Despite the loss, the Dillon Cubs remain alive in the Montana American Legion Baseball State District Tournament and will return to the field later today for an elimination matchup against the Butte Miners.