The Golden Valley Grizzlies summer baseball has advanced to the American Legion state tournament in Yountville, which is north of the Bay Area.
The Grizzlies open play against Mission Viejo Friday. Head Coach Scott Drootin says it’s the way the team has come together this summer that has taken them to the state championships.
“I think one of the strong points of this team is they have no fear,” Drootin said. “Our chemistry is (better) than it’s ever been at this school before. They’re relaxed and they’re enjoying this.”
Nick Tejada
Nick Tejada has emerged as a dominating pitcher over the summer. But it’s not his arm that has been the most pleasant surprise for Drootin.
“He’s pitched incredible, but he’s shown some leadership which we’ve never gotten out of him,” Drootin said. “He’s a different guy. He really wants to play baseball and he wants to lead these guys.”
The defense of centerfielder Josh Lampariello and clutch hitting of Lucas Granado have been difference makers throughout the season. In the Area 6 championship game, Granado’s bases loaded triple erased a deficit and gave the Grizzlies the lead.
“He’s just that kind of kid, and he’s only a 10th grader, but he’s way mature beyond his years,” Drootin said of Granado. “And Josh Lampariello has made some incredible plays. Again, he has shown some leadership and he’s shown he’s really athletic. A couple of coaches from colleges were looking at him. He’s really had a strong, strong summer.”
The two coaches joked about skipping the trip and meeting halfway between the schools in Santa Monica. But Drootin has nothing but respect for the Diablos.
“Mission Viejo is a very good team,” Drootin said. “They’ve been up there before, but we are looking forward to the challenge.”
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1 Comment
Good luck boys!!!!