Undefeated Southern League champs moving into playoffs

What a season it’s been for the Mariposa County High School varsity baseball team.

The group put a cherry on top of their regular season last week against Le Grand as they continued their winning streak which remains alive at 19 consecutive wins.

On April 28, the Grizzlies traveled to Le Grand to face the Bulldogs. Both teams were undefeated in league action at the start of the game.

MCHS came out on top as the victor with a final score of 7-6.

“It was a really great game,” said coach Josh Collins.

“We kind of fell off and gave up some runs but this team has persevered.”

Carmine Sandoval was a huge factor for the Grizzlies as he had a home run, two RBI and a run.

“It was looking a little grim but we got a runner on and Carmine hit one of the most historical home runs in Mariposa history,” Collins said.

“This team is special, especially playing from behind.”

Reid Allison continues to be reliable as he scored one run, had two hits and an RBI.

Hayden Hill was in on the action with one run, two hits and one RBI.

Freshman John Ogilby scored a run while Peyton Getty and Bodie Hagen each recorded a hit.

Mason Bissmeyer continues to be a pillar for MCHS as he had two hits, one run and a double while Ez Weiland put up two runs along with two stolen bases.

On April 30, the Grizzlies finished out the regular season at home on Ed Vegely Field with a massive 9-1 win over Le Grand.

“Our sole focus was beating Le Grand and taking the title,” continued Collins.

“It was important we did our thing and you could see we were the better team in that game.”

The Bulldogs recorded their lone run in the first inning while MCHS completely took over and didn’t look back.

Ben Lingenfelter recorded two runs, two hits, one RBI, a double along with his third home run of the season.

Hagen went 2-for-2 at the plate along with two runs, two RBI and one stolen base.

Allison had a hit, two RBI and a double while Hill scored one run.

Ogilby recorded one hit, one run and a stolen base.

Sandoval continues to contribute as he had one run, one hit, one RBI and a stolen base.

Bissmeyer had one hit, scored two runs and stole one base while Weiland recorded a hit and an RBI.

After handing Le Grand their only two league game losses of the season, MCHS finished the regular season as Southern League champs with an undefeated record of 14-0.

“We knew they’re capable,” said Collins.

“We knew it was just a matter of time until it clicked and I’m very proud.”

MCHS has gone undefeated and earned the Southern League title, but they aren’t done yet.

“We can take care of business but we just have to continue to take things one day at a time. We don’t want to put pressure on it,” Collins said.

“I’m very proud and being a part of this is more than I could’ve hoped for. They do what they need to do to win games and the young men they’ve become has been the most fulfilling.”

The Grizzlies more than earned their spot in the playoffs as they hosted the River Islands Riptide (6-2) at MCHS on May 6 for the first round.

Results were not available at press time.

The winner of the game between MCHS and River Islands will go on to compete with Ripon Christian High School on May 8 at 4 p.m. in Ripon.