LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. – As the 2026 spring season for Los Alamitos High School Baseball continues, prospects of winning a CIF title are looking up with this year’s winning roster. Their commitment throughout the off-season’s demanding work, keeping one another accountable through tough times and putting in the hard yards as a team proves itself with each passing game.
“Off-season’s been outstanding. The guys have really bought into the program and dedicated themselves on a daily basis to all the work they’re doing in the field, in the weight room and with fundraising. Some team leaders have really established themselves to get everyone on the same page,” said Cameron Chinn, head coach of the LAHS varsity team.
During the off-season, the team focused on defence drills, along with new plays on offence. Becoming familiarized with the players and each of their playing styles was also a priority for the new coaches during the off-season; this helped lay the stepping stones and base for the team coming into season.
When asked which teammate or coach they think has become a leading inspiration for the team, varsity players Kaden Turner, Matthew Leer and Christian Cruz shouted out several different people.
“I would like to shout out Parker Sanchez, as he has stepped into a big role this season, and has become a great leader on the field. I would also like to shout out Jerry Garfiaz for his ability to hold us to such a high standard on and off the field. Both of these players have such a good work ethic, and really have the ability to bring us up as a whole,” Leer said.
“As a team, we lean on Rowan Shelley, Fresno State commit, as he has shaped into a leadership role on our team. For the season, he is one to watch out for to make each game exciting and full of energy. Cruz D’Errico has been a strong part of our preseason team. Even with his quiet demeanour, he continues to rack up hits and keeps people on their toes, as he is one of the fastest on the team,” Cruz said.
“Honestly, I couldn’t single out just one person. Everyone plays a role, and it takes all of us working together to be successful. I personally lean on our new coaching staff because they are always honest with me, whether I’m asking for advice or they are letting me know how I can improve,” Turner said.
The varsity team makes it a priority to maintain strong sportsmanship, as almost all of the boys have known each other since playing rec ball and share deep bonds.
Last year, the Griffins finished with a 19-10-2 overall record and a 10-8 league record, placing third in the Sunset League. They advanced to the CIF-SS Division 1 quarterfinals, where they lost a close game 5-4 to Santa Margarita Catholic High School. This year, they’re running it back in hopes of bringing home a CIF title!
“We have a ton of seniors who are going to fill different roles for us this year. Some of our returning seniors to varsity are Cruz D’Errico, Will Adams, Rowan Shelley and Gerardo (Jerry) Garfiaz, to name a few,” Coach Chinn said.
“People should expect a statement from us this year,” Leer said.
