2014 was a year of mixed emotions for the Oakdale High School baseball teams. The year featured first year varsity coach Nathan Gregory, who managed the team to the CIF Sections playoffs, but fell in the first round. The varsity team also has seen eight of its seniors graduate, going to college this fall and leaving behind some holes to fill.

For the freshman team, 2014 was a success as their season was highlighted by winning the Mark Dickens Tournament back in March and enjoying a stellar Valley Oak League campaign. Junior varsity coach, Scott Gehl coached his team to a winning record this season as well. The future seems bright for both JV and varsity alike as these talented young athletes advance to the next level.

Although the season is over, players from all three levels reunited for one more night as the Mustang ball clubs were honored on May 28 at the 2014 Baseball Awards Banquet. Following are the various awards presented during the evening.

Freshman Awards:

Defensive Player of the Year: Wesley Allen

Offensive Player of the Year: Blake Whiting

Mustang Award: Tanner Corson and Blake Maddock

Most Improved: Jacob Petersen

Most Valuable Player: Michael Juarez

Junior Varsity Awards:

Defensive Player of the Year: Sean Gingerich

Offensive Player of the Year: Logan Hall

Most Improved: Brad Smith

Mustang Award: Brad Aquino

Most Valuable Player: Tanner Emes

Varsity Awards:

Team Captain and Larry Bird Award: Tanner Morgan, also was named to the 2014 All VOL Second Team as an outfielder.

Most Improved: James Azevedo

Defensive Player of the Year: Colt Parshall, also named to the 2014 All VOL First Team as an infielder.

Best Hitter and Most Valuable Player: Bryce Dyrda, named to the 2014 All VOL First Team as best pitcher.

Best Pitcher: Garret Bryhni, named to the 2014 All VOL First Team as a utility player.

Receiving honorable mention for the 2014 VOL All League selections were Tyler Leach and Bryce Kirk.