News Summary
The Saddleback High School baseball team concluded a historic season with a narrow 4-3 loss to Coastal Christian in the CIF Division 9 playoffs. This marks their first playoff appearance since 2006. The team, which finished with a record of 14-11-1, showed resilience throughout the season, highlighted by key moments including a dramatic tie in the sixth inning. Despite the disappointment, the Roadrunners demonstrated significant growth and camaraderie as they look forward to future seasons.
Santa Ana, CA – The Saddleback High School baseball team’s historic season concluded with a narrow 4-3 loss to Coastal Christian in the second round of the CIF Division 9 playoffs, marking the team’s first playoff appearance since 2006. The game was held on a Tuesday afternoon at Saddleback High School and showcased a competitive effort from both teams.
The Roadrunners finished the season with a record of 14 wins, 11 losses, and 1 tie, achieving a significant milestone by qualifying for the playoffs after a lengthy absence. Despite the disappointment of the playoff loss, the team demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the season.
Coastal Christian, advancing to the semifinals, initially took control of the game with an early lead. They scored a single run in the first inning and added two more in the third, building a 3-0 advantage. However, Saddleback fought back, displaying determination as they tied the game at 3-3 in the sixth inning, thanks to key RBI singles from junior Bailey Wright and freshman Joaquin Cornejo.
In a dramatic finish, Coastal Christian’s senior pitcher, Weston Barker, provided the game-winning run with an RBI single in the bottom of the seventh inning. Barker not only made significant contributions on the mound, pitching six innings and allowing three hits while driving in two runs at the plate, but he also played a pivotal role in securing the victory when it mattered most.
Coach Joseph Najera acknowledged the effort and growth displayed by his team throughout the season, emphasizing that despite the loss, there were many positives to take away from their performance. The team’s season included perseverance, hard work, and dedication as core values that they embraced, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship.
Senior catcher Ricky Marquez highlighted the personal growth and leadership skills he developed during the course of the season. As the team navigated through both triumphs and challenges, they learned valuable lessons that extended beyond the baseball field.
Saddleback had an impressive playoff run that began with a decisive 17-0 victory against Ambassador Christian in the opening round of the CIF Division 9 playoffs. This historic achievement of qualifying for the CIF playoffs and advancing to the second round represents a significant turnaround for the Roadrunners, a testament to their hard work and commitment throughout the season.
The Roadrunners completed the season by finishing second in the Orange League, solidifying their standing as a competitive team in the local high school baseball landscape. For many team members, including the graduating seniors, this season has been a culmination of years of dedication and effort embodied in their collective achievements.
As the team reflects on their season, they remain hopeful and motivated about the future, building upon the experiences gained during this remarkable run. With the foundation laid this year, the Saddleback High School baseball team is poised for continued success in the coming seasons.
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Additional Resources
- OC Sports Zone: Saddleback Roadrunners’ Historic CIF Playoff Run Ends
- Wikipedia: California Intercollegiate Federation
- OC Register: Saddleback Baseball in CIF-SS Playoffs for First Time Since 2006
- Google Search: Saddleback High School baseball
- ECC Union: Warriors Baseball Holds Its Ground Against Bobcats
- Google Scholar: High School Baseball
- OC Sports Zone: Saddleback Celebrates First Trip to CIF Playoffs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: History of Baseball
- ECC Union: Warriors Baseball Team Sweeps Saddleback College
- Google News: Saddleback High School baseball playoffs
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