BASEBALL TOP 10
The high school baseball season has commenced, marking the debut of the initial Daily Breeze Top 10 for this season as of Wednesday, Feb. 28.
- TORRANCE 3-1-1
Torrance, the reigning Pioneer League champions, showcases the return of Mateo Rickman, last year’s Daily Breeze Player of the Year. Rickman, who batted .400 with three home runs and 32 RBIs while also achieving a 3-0 record on the mound, leads the team. Additionally, Torrance boasts a solid core of veteran players, including seniors Anthony Macias, Slater Nunez, Eshua Desai, and Jared Galang.
- MIRA COSTA 3-4-1
With Max Martinez at the helm, Mira Costa anticipates a promising season ahead. Martinez, a recipient of All-Area accolades in the previous season, stands as a top contender for this year’s player of the year title. Head coach Andy Diver expresses confidence in the team’s depth, emphasizing the presence of multiple proficient pitchers and a strong defensive lineup. Despite facing a challenging nonleague schedule, Mira Costa aims to contend for the Bay League championship before the onset of the CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs.
- REDONDO 4-1
Under the guidance of new head coach Ted Silva, the Sea Hawks have made a positive start to the season. Dylan Leoff has already achieved a 2-0 record on the mound, complemented by Nick Aguirre’s impressive .467 batting average. Redondo benefits from the experience of 18 returning seniors, with Silva setting high expectations for the team’s performance.
- PALOS VERDES 5-3
Palos Verdes relies on its senior leadership to drive success this season. Head coach Alex Morales anticipates a transitional period for role establishment within the team but remains optimistic about the Sea Kings’ prospects in the hunt for the Bay League title. Key returners such as Kaden Stone, Justin Camel, Tyler Tellenbach, and Patrick Roche are expected to play pivotal roles.
- SOUTH TORRANCE 2-4
Having reached the CIF-SS Division 3 quarterfinals in the previous season, the Spartans look to build on their success. Peter Broughton, with a notable 6-2 record and a 1.16 ERA from last season, returns alongside Caden Lewis, a significant contributor with three home runs and 18 RBIs in 2023.
- WEST TORRANCE 3-3
The Warriors boast a formidable lineup of senior players, including Dylan Smith, Nathan Rivera, and Cameron O’Neil. Smith and Rivera, both former All-Area selections, add depth to the team. Coach Juan Cueva emphasizes the team’s experienced pitching staff and solid defense, with Smith leading the offensive charge following a .347 batting average and a 5-2 pitching record from the previous season.
- CARSON 4-0
Following their appearance in the City Section Open Division finals last year, the Colts maintain a strong foundation with returning All-Area picks Aidan Brasher and Dylan Mares. Noteworthy players such as Noah Gomez and Joziah Agredano also make a comeback, under the leadership of new head coach Michael Kunipo-Aguirre.
- SERRA 3-1
Serra’s seniors, including Adrian Pineda, Jade Harris, Henry Sorman, Kelvin Martinez, and Khaleb Romero, seek redemption after an early exit in the CIF-SS Division 3 playoffs last season. The addition of Marc Emmerman, a transfer from Mira Costa committed to San Diego State, bolsters the team. Pitching prowess and defensive solidity are identified as crucial elements for the Cavaliers’ success.
- EL SEGUNDO 4-1
The Eagles rely on the leadership of returning seniors Anthony Temesvary, Hudson Comer, Mateo Heredia, Dylan Alcala, and Louis Church to maintain their strong start to the season.
- BISHOP MONTGOMERY 3-2
Having reached the CIF-SS Division 5 semifinals in the previous season, the Knights face a new challenge in Division 4 this year. The team, now part of the Del Rey League alongside Bishop Amat, Serra, La Salle, and Paraclete, counts on the exceptional performance of returning All-Area selection Brody Cuellar, who has already showcased four home runs in the early stages of the new season.
Also receiving consideration: San Pedro 1-2, Narbonne 1-5, Peninsula 1-4, Banning 2-2.