The autumn spotlight fell on Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, where the 2025 Arizona Fall League (AFL) culminated in a title game that will be remembered for its late-inning fireworks. Facing off were the Surprise Saguaros and the Peoria Javelinas — two perennial powerhouses of the AFL — and by the end of the 9th inning, it was the Saguaros raising the trophy after a 9–4 comeback win.
Peoria took an early lead and looked poised to capture another championship. But the Saguaros refused to go quietly. Down by four runs entering the eighth, Surprise erupted — stringing together seven runs on multiple hits and big swings. The rally was sparked by a two-RBI double from Brewers prospect Josh Adamczewski and capped off by a game-changing two-RBI single from Guardians’ own Juan Benjamin, who also swiped a base during the rally.
That burst of offense flipped the game’s energy and silenced the Javelinas’ bullpen. The final out came on a strikeout by Brewers right-hander Edwin Jimenez — who locked down the save and sent Surprise into celebration mode.
What makes the AFL unique — and what made this victory special — is that the Saguaros are not just one organization: they’re a composite squad, blending top prospects from multiple MLB clubs. In 2025, that mix included players from the Guardians, Brewers, Phillies, Rangers, and Royals.
That diversity didn’t dilute chemistry — it enhanced it. Players from different systems came together late in the season, found rhythm, and unlike a regular-season club, had less pressure about long-term expectations and more focus on opportunity. The result: a late-game rally that proved unstoppable.
Beyond the trophy, all-league honors were handed out — with Kevin McGonigle (Tigers system) earning 2025 AFL MVP, among other award winners for top hitter and top pitcher.
For many of the young players on Surprise — including those from the Guardians organization — the championship represents more than a trophy: it’s a spotlight, a confidence boost, and a good way to close a fall season before the grind of minor-league camp or major-league spring training.
Winning the AFL championship is rarely just about bragging rights. For a composite squad built of prospects, it’s a sign that the organizational depth is alive, the prospects are maturing, and there’s real talent rising through the system.
For the community of scouts, analysts, and fans watching — Surprise’s comeback serves as a reminder that player development isn’t linear. Even stars-in-waiting can stumble, slump, or be overlooked. But when opportunity arises, and the pieces click — whether in spring or fall — those rebounds can surprise.
With 2025 in the books, attention turns toward 2026: Which players from this Saguaros squad will break through? Which prospects will carry that momentum forward? And could this year’s champions be a preview of future major-league contributors?
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