The Los Medanos College baseball team wrapped up its 2025 season with a 28-15 overall record and a great 18-3 conference finish. After dominating the Bay Valley Conference, the Mustangs advanced to the postseason but were eliminated in the Super Regionals by Skyline and West Valley.
LMC started slow in non-conference play but did turn things around in March with a long win streak that carried into April. The Mustangs swept key series against Solano, Mendocino, Napa Valley, Contra Costa, Yuba, and Marin to claim the conference title. They carried that momentum into the first round of playoffs, taking two straight games from Butte College.
Athletic Director Marti Storti called the season “bittersweet,” describing the team’s success in league play and their effort in the playoffs. “The sweep of Marin at the end was very impressive,” Storti said. “Disappointing we didn’t get further, but the guys should be proud of what they did.”
Leading the offense was freshman Kai Smith, who posted a team-best .478 batting average with 55 hits, 38 runs, and 20 extra-base hits. Right behind him was Heeryun Han, hitting .404 with 57 hits and 41 runs batted in. Smith Chandler also had a big season, batting .397 with 60 hits and 41 runs scored. Chase Taylor (.358), Daniel Polasek (.385), and Benjamin O’Rourke (.347) rounded out the Mustangs’ great offensive lineup.
On the mound, Nathan Leffel was the team’s workhorse, going 9-1 in 17 appearances with a 1.78 ERA and 107 strikeouts over 91 innings. Zane Baltz also provided solid innings, finishing with a perfect 0.00 ERA across 13 appearances. Shaun Mante added depth with a 2.08 ERA in eight appearances, while Zach Vasell chipped in with a 2.57 ERA.
Caymen Sargent, a student, called the season “exciting,” praising the team’s chemistry. “It was something you could really see when they played together as one,” Sargent said. “They should be proud of what they accomplished.”
While the season ended with back-to-back playoff losses, including an 11-7 defeat to Skyline and a 13-4 loss to West Valley, Storti said the program continues to grow.
“The development of a deeper program with high-quality players who have opportunities to move on is what stands out,” Storti said.
With several players looking to continue their careers at four-year schools, the future remains bright for LMC baseball. Despite falling short of a state title, the Mustangs proved they are one of the top programs in the conference and have plenty to build on for next year.