Sophomore Cory Popham has been outstanding in leading the GCC staff. Through 68 1/3 innings, he’s struck out 63, while garnering a 7-2 record with a 3.16 ERA. Starters Alonzo Gonzalez (6-2) and David Lira (4-1) have also fared well, while the bullpen has been formidable with closer Kirk Edson leading the way with seven saves and a miniscule 0.83 ERA.
“I anticipate Cory getting the start [in the opener],” said Cicuto of Popham, who at one point was sat down, but has shown great maturity in developing into a dominant pitcher. “He’s really grown up mentally, his skills have always been there.”
Crescenta Valley High product Chris Stroh has set the table all season for the Vaqueros, as the returning starter boasts a team-high .322 average along with 35 runs, five triples and 23 stolen bases. Edgar Montes (26 runs, 12 doubles, four home runs and 27 RBI), Ruben Padilla (23 runs, 21 RBI, 11 extra-base hits), Cameron Gardner (27 runs, 22 RBI, 19 stolen bases) and Adam Ochart (.297 average, 20 runs, 20 RBI) have also been key components in a well-balanced offense that’s averaging just under seven runs a game.
