The Topes capped off a remarkable 2024 season with a well-deserved championship win, showcasing their prowess both at the plate and on the mound. Their season journey included thrilling victories, solid defense, and outstanding pitching, ultimately leading them to triumph in the championship series.

 

This is their second D1 championship in three years!

 

Season Highlights and Playoff Run

 

The Topes entered the season on fire, winning their first game 4-0 against the West Coast Redwoods on April 6 and never looking back. They continued their dominant streak through April and May, highlighted by two commanding wins over the San Jose Rockies in a May 19 doubleheader.

 

The team carried their momentum into the postseason:

• Semifinal Series: The Topes faced the Santa Cruz Mets, securing a doubleheader sweep (1-0, 9-3) at Aragon High School to punch their ticket to the finals.

• Championship Series: The championship matchup began on August 25, where the Topes narrowly fell to the San Jose Marlins Showcase, 4-2. However, they bounced back to dominate the Marlins in two decisive wins on September 8 (4-0 and 10-0), capturing the league title and cementing their legacy as champions.

 

Pitching Standouts

The Topes’ pitching staff was the backbone of their success, turning in exceptional performances game after game. Here are the key contributors who made the Topes’ defense nearly impenetrable:

• Lucas Robinson: A workhorse throughout the season, Robinson delivered a stunning 0.14 ERA over 63.2 innings, including 4 shutouts and 3 complete games. With a WHIP of only 0.64 and an opponent batting average of .128, Robinson’s stellar command and consistency made him an invaluable asset.

• Andrew Preimesberger: With an impressive 1.75 ERA across 72 innings, Preimesberger won 9 games and allowed a mere 14 earned runs while striking out 67. His WHIP of 0.87 and opponent batting average of .194 showcased his ability to control the game and keep hitters off-balance.

• Dan March: March contributed 14.2 innings with a superb ERA of 0.61 and a WHIP of 0.75. He allowed only 1 earned run on the season and proved to be a reliable option out of the bullpen.

These arms were crucial in tight games and were instrumental in the postseason, where the Topes outscored opponents 24-6 across the semifinal and championship series.

 

 

Offensive Powerhouses

The Topes’ lineup was as potent as their pitching, with several players turning in clutch performances:

• Matt Peterson led the team with a .386 batting average and an OPS of 1.101, driving in 11 runs and hitting 2 home runs.

• Connor McWard: Hitting .355 with a .949 OPS, McWard consistently got on base and provided steady offensive production.

• Willie Hodgins contributed a .333 batting average, scoring 19 runs and providing versatility on both offense and defense.

 

Looking Ahead

The Topes’ 2024 season was one for the history books. With a championship title in hand and a lineup of talented, dedicated players, they’ve set a high standard for seasons to come. Congratulations to the Topes and their fans on an incredible season, ere’s to continued success in 2025!