Santa Clara Announces Award Winners

The Santa Clara Baseball League has announced their award winners for the 2023 season. 

MVP - Zaine McConnell 

What a year for Zaine McConnell. The 21-year-old put up impressive numbers offensively and defensively to secure his crown as league MVP. He batted 477, with a 558 OBP, 2 Homeruns, 19 RBIS, and scored 15 runs. On the mound he was 4-1, he threw 31 innings, and had 2 complete games. There should be no doubt, if McConnell doesn’t put up these big numbers, Carberry’s first pennant in 25+ years would likely belong to someone else. While some of his competitors had a higher average, or a few more homeruns, Zaine’s overall numbers could not be overlooked or overmatched. He edged out other league standouts Zac Yandeau, Brenden Reimer, Daylan Laramee, and Garrett Rempel.
Congrats Zaine!

Top Pitcher - Garrett Rempel 
The Neepawa Ace had a terrific year on the bump. He threw 33 innings and struck out 39 batters. The newly married South paw had a league low 1.80 ERA and an impressive WHIP of 1.08. Playing in front of a newly formed roster Rempel still managed to earn a 3-2 record. In a year or two when this team gels, that could easily be a 5-0 season for the 27-year-old. Garrett beat out 2x Top Pitcher Joey Moffatt, League MVP Zaine McConnell, steady eddy Justin Walker, and Austins big dog Alex Klassen.
Congrats Garrett!

Rookie of the Year - Riley McBride
Plumas fans have lots to be excited about with young talent like Riley McBride on their roster. The 19-year-old had a tremendous year going 4-0 on the mound. A stat unmatched by other rookies for sure. He threw 16 innings and struck out 20 batters. On the sticks he was no slouch either. Batting 300, with a 425 OBP, 10 runs, and 7 stolen bases. He defeated other nominees including Minnedosa’s Austin Taylor, Neepawa’s Dustin Cook, Caberry’s Cam Rohs, Austin’s Nolan Marriott, and Portage Padres Tanner Boyle. Watch out for Riley in upcoming years, as former Rookie of the Years Joey Moffatt, Zaine McConnell, and Alex Klassen have proven, he will be a league leader in years to come. Congrats Riley

Congratulations to all nominees on a great season as well. The regular season has wrapped up. There were many highlight reel plays, and clutch hits, But now its time to refocus on playoffs. Fans should be in for a treat to see who will own the 2023 SCBL Supremacy.