Amador Valley’s varsity baseball team has gotten off to a hot start with a 12-1 overall record and currently holds a nine-game winning streak. With one month left before the regular season ends, the Dons prepare to make a deep run in the playoffs. 

The Dons’ pitching has been at its best, with pitchers recording an impressive 0.72 ERA, 85 strikeouts, and 45 hits given up as of April 14. They have also produced four shutouts and have yet to give up more than three runs this season. 

“Our pitchers give our team a chance to win by keeping [the opponents’ score] that low. All it is is just giving the pitchers support with a few more runs and that’s how you win games,” said pitcher Oliver De La Torre (‘23).

With a 0.308 team batting average through 13 games, the Dons have recorded a staggering 106 hits along with four home runs. They have continued to put up points on the board, scoring 78 total runs and 70 RBIs. 

“Batting has improved an insane amount [since last year]. We’re taking better at-bats, really making the opposing pitchers work to get their outs and it’s just way easier for us,” said De La Torre.

Before this season began, Amador’s coaching staff continuously honed in on each player’s skill and overall character, providing a blueprint for what it takes to stay successful throughout the year. 

“They know when to push us, they know when to be hard and tough on us, and we need that sometimes. They’ve really shaped us well, all the way [since] the fall during workouts and batting practices, molding us into a great team,” said outfielder and pitcher Tyler Kubo (‘23).

As a result of starting the season close to perfect, the attention drawn in by the Dons has surged as they move towards becoming serious contenders come playoff time. 

“Last year was tough on everybody and we spent a lot of lunch times in the fall talking about it. I think the seniors have done a phenomenal job. They’re hungry and they know they need to be humble every day because we remember last year, [it] was painful,” said head coach Louis Cesario.

Players want to enjoy their accomplishments on the field by having fun. They keep their momentum going by displaying the excitement of winning on social media and incorporating team bonding all around. 

“The chemistry is like a family, like brothers. It’s real love for each other and you feel it. The energy that they exude from each other is powerful. It’s special to be around and I’m lucky to be part of it,” said Cesario.