8-6 win over Peninsula after Mira Costa 5-4 loss to PV gives Redondo sole possession of first place on last day of the season.
The season ended on a high note for the Redondo Union Sea Hawks with Freshman pitcher Cooper Gallion (8-1) leading his team to victory Thursday afternoon at Miraleste Field in Palos Verdes. From the first inning on Redondo held the lead, eventually earning the title with an 8-6 win over Peninsula High. Gallion ignited the offense with a first inning double, deep to left driving in 2 early runs.
This pattern was a common theme throughout the season for the Freshman Sea Hawks who ended with a record of 20-5 overall, 6-1 in league play. Earl Girard was outstanding as a lead off hitter with a consistent bat and reliable speed. James Ramos, Jacob Springman and talented shortstop Jason Dicochea provided punch in the two and three spots. Cooper Gallion with a powerful swing batted clean up, leading the team in the RBI category. With left handed Malik Spencer batting behind Gallion they combined for 9 home runs on the season. This duo provided winning production and impressive slugging capability in their first high school seasons. Catcher Marco Valenzuela had several extra base hits in the middle of the order, in addition to a great defensive season behind the plate.
Pitching was a team strength for the Freshman Sea Hawks keeping opponents off the base pads throughout April and May. Matt Hanniff ( 8-1) was very durable on the mound showing great ability to locate pitches. Utilizing Hanniff in alternating starts with Gallion, who lead the team in strikeouts, t hey combined for 16 wins with ERA's near 1.00 while allowing batting average against well below the .200 mark. Sean Reynolds and Luke Sullivan rounded out the pitching rotation well, providing depth and relief for the talented Freshman Sea Hawks pitching staff.
The Redondo Union High School Baseball program has been headed in the right direction since Head Coach Jeff Baumback took over three years ago. The Freshman Bay League Title is the second in two years for RUHS. The Varsity team was within one win from the title this year and will begin post season play next week. Given the depth of talent presented with up and coming players in the Redondo system combined with another Freshman Bay League title victory, RUHS should expect good things in the future for Redondo Baseball.
