In a game that will be ed for generations, Ramona High School’s baseball team made history on Saturday, becoming the first in school history to win a CIF Championship by defeating Otay Ranch 8–6.
The San Diego CIF Division IV Championship game at the University of San Diego Ron Fowler Field was a showdown between the top-seeded Mustangs and second-seeded Bulldogs.
Otay took an early 5-1 lead in the second inning, and the teams continued to battle.
With the score tied 6 to 6 in the final inning, starting centerfielder Zack Nightingale led off with a single, followed by catcher Simpson and first baseman Tallon Ogilvie, who loaded the bases. Matthew Parker, running for Simpson, scored the go-ahead run third baseman Justin Jarrett’s fielder’s choice.
Ogilvie added an insurance run on leftfielder Josh Luellen’s sacrifice fly.
“It was not the best base running,” Parker said after the game. “I thought the ball went through the gap and I misread it. I knew I had to make a good slide and got lucky when they dropped the ball. Just super excited and stoked.”
Nightingale added: “This was our goal from the beginning of the year, we knew we had the talent and the ability to get there and we did and now we are Champions.”
Closing pitcher Seth Gaines earned the win for Bulldogs. Gaines surrendered one hit and no runs over the two innings, striking out two and walking one.
“Being there with my team felt surreal. It was an incredible experience, knowing how much effort we invested to reach that point,” Gaines said.
Pitcher Alex Wilson was honored with the CIF Sportsmanship Award, recognizing his character and leadership on and off the field.
“When I received my award, I was happy and I felt it was deserved. I always try to be a good teammate and do what I can for the team even if it’s not always on the field.” Wilson said after the award presentation.
With an undefeated 4-0 playoff season the Bulldogs are now headed to the 2025 CIF So. Cal Baseball Championships Division 4 first round.
“This win is a huge accomplishment for our coaching staff and players,” said head coach Chris Bertolero. “We won the league and are now CIF Champions. Not only for us as a team, but for the entire school and Ramona.”
Their first game is a home matchup on Tuesday, June 3, at 4 p.m. against Rancho Mirage.
