Baseball fans in Billings celebrate the postseason; Mustangs finish second in the Pioneer League

Billings, Montana – This year, the boys of summer are staying a little longer in Billings because the Billings Mustangs are contending for the Pioneer League title.

The Ogden Raptors won the final series by a score of 2-0 after defeating the Mustangs, 7-5.

But for the local supporters, it’s a special occasion to support their home team at Dehler Park, their home stadium.

“Today’s national cheeseburger day,” said Clay Schwartz, Mustangs fan. “Have a cheeseburger, watch some baseball, maybe an adult beverage, go see the Northern Lights later on. This is great.”

Additionally, the atmosphere of the postseason is felt by the fans of the club that finished the regular season on a 15-game winning run.

“As you can see by the hat that I’m wearing, the last time that we won a championship was in 2014,” said Ron Spence, Mustangs fan. “I wear this hat to every game, hoping that we’ll have another championship this year.”

In the opening round of the playoffs, the Mustangs defeated the Missoula Paddleheads 2-1.

Since Robert Cobb introduced the Mustangs to Billings in 1948, just one fan has continued to follow minor league baseball.

“The old Cobb Field was a little bit different, not much,” said Arne Mysse, a fan of the very first Mustangs team. “The field was exactly the same, but it was special to come out here and watch ball games. It’s gonna be special tonight, too.”

Some baseball enthusiasts only watch the Pioneer League because they enjoy it.

“This is baseball,” Spence said. “I love watching these young players play because they’re all here. They’re not making millions of dollars, but they’re out here playing just as hard.”

“This is our team,” Schwartz said. “This is Billings’ team. The pros are one thing but we can come out and get real close to the players and really be immersed in the game.”

“It’s a beautiful night with family and friends and watching them play,” said Christina Crenshaw. “It’s amazing. So glad they’re out here.