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In just their third season, the Dublin Leprechauns vaulted into the upper tier of the Pecos League by winning a road playoff series before falling to San Rafael in the Pacific Division finals.
Down by two runs in the 8th inning, the Leprechauns scored eight runs to run away with a 15-9 victory over second-seeded Bakersfield and clinched a berth in the Pecos Pacific finals.
“Our organization goals this season were to play .500 baseball and make the playoffs,” said Guy Houston, Dublin director of baseball operations. “To go 34-20 in the regular season and win a playoff series, this exceeded our expectations. We are in a good position as we plan for 2026.”
San Rafael went wire-to-wire to finish the regular season with a 38-16 record. Bakersfield was second at 36-21, with the Leprechauns finishing 34-20. Martinez got the final playoff spot with a 25-30 record.
It was another amazing leap by the Leprechauns in their three-year franchise run. Their first season, the Leprechauns were 4-44, then jumped last year to 24-30, before posting that winning record this season.
Much of the Leprechaun success can be attributed to second-year manager David Aceron. The San Diego native was constantly shuffling the deck of players and positions to catch the right formula to win, even when it went against convention.
An example of that was signing Marika Lyszczyk, the first woman to compete in the Pecos League. “Some thought this was a stunt, but Marika pitched well. We won both games she threw for us,” said Aceron. “We want players that will help us win, no matter who they are.”
The goal for all the Leprechaun players is to continue to progress in their careers, meaning climbing the ladder of Minor League Baseball with the hope of playing someday in the majors.
Right after the Pecos playoffs, outfielder Damone Hale was signed by the Ottawa Titans of the Frontier League.
“Damone was our best hitter and a team leader,” general manager Tim Sbranti said. “The organization is so proud of him to make it to the next level and wish him the best in his career. He will always be a Leprechaun.”
As for 2026, there are a million ideas swirling through Houston’s head to prepare for next season.
“There are only 70 cities that are home to independent professional baseball in the United States, and we have one right here in the Tri-Valley,” Houston said. “There is a lot of talent out there; next season will be our best yet.”
CCOP basketball
The Catholic Community of Pleasanton is once again offering the youth of the community an opportunity for fellowship and character development through participation in the CYO Basketball program.
The basketball program is open to all children in Pleasanton or Sunol schools entering the third through eighth grades.
Player evaluations for team assignments will be Aug. 24, 25 and 26. For more information about the basketball program and how to register, go to ccopcyo.org.
Foothill recognized for sportsmanship
Foothill High was recognized as one of the schools in the North Coast Section that had “Zero Ejections” for the 2024-25 sports season.
There were 45 schools throughout the entire section that went without an ejection, with Carondelet being the only other East Bay Athletic League school that can make the boast.
In addition, looking at the list of schools, Foothill has the largest enrollment, as most of the schools on the list are smaller schools throughout the section.
NCS had the following to say on the certificate sent to the respective schools: “Your commitment to sportsmanship, respect, and integrity sets a powerful example for all. Thank you for upholding the true spirit of high school athletics.”
Foothill principal Sebastian Bull, who if you know him is easily the driving force behind the attitude of the school, had the following to say: “It is a testament to the strong character found in our athletic programs and the good sportsmanship showed by the Falcons.”
Great job Falcons! Let’s see if we can get all the schools in the EBAL to follow suit this year.
Editor’s note: Dennis Miller is a contributing sports writer for Embarcadero Media Foundation’s East Bay Division. To contact him about his Pleasanton Preps column, email acesmag@aol.com.
