Acalanes 3, Pinole Valley 2 (8 innings) – “Extra Innings, Extra Guts!”
The Dons kicked off their season with a nail-biting 3-2 victory over Pinole Valley in extra innings. Despite some early-game jitters, Acalanes proved they’ve got the guts to pull through tight games. The hero of the night? Branson Smith. The guy went the distance, throwing a complete game with just two hits allowed and four strikeouts. He gave up two unearned runs over eight innings—and did it all with the calmness of a guy who’s been there, done that. Smith showed why he’s the guy you want on the mound when the pressure’s on.
With the game tied at 2-2 in the eighth, Keegan Goddard came up big with a clutch single to bring in the go-ahead run. Jimmy Cusumano also played a key role, driving in an RBI single earlier in the game to tie things up. The Dons’ patience at the plate was evident, drawing seven walks.
But the real magic came in the seventh inning when the Dons turned a double play that had everyone buzzing. After two intentional walks, Cusumano made a slick flip to Tyler Winkles, who fired a perfect throw to Nicky Fosina for the catch. Defense is on point. This win showed Acalanes has the grit to handle any situation. ALL IN!
Acalanes 5, Piedmont 7 – “Close But No Cigar”
Acalanes had a big day at the plate but couldn’t quite seal the deal, falling 7-5 to Piedmont in a high-scoring affair. Despite racking up 10 hits compared to Piedmont’s six, the Dons couldn’t hold their early lead. Keegan Goddard led the charge with a hot bat, going 3-for-4 with key hits throughout the game.
Acalanes got off to a strong start, with Drew Asadorian doubling to score the first run of the game. However, Piedmont took control early, scoring three runs in the bottom of the first. The Dons fought back in the sixth to take a 5-4 lead, thanks to a mix of smart baserunning and Piedmont errors, but Piedmont rallied to grab the win.
Austin McMannamon took the mound to start, giving up three earned runs over four innings. Jake Colaco and Brady Quinn helped in relief, with Quinn making his baseball debut after switching from basketball. And let’s just say, he was as precise as a Swiss watch. The Dons showed depth, with Asadorian and Tyler Winkles each driving in runs, but just couldn’t finish the job.
Acalanes 4, St. Ignatius 4 (Tie) – “The Battle of the Night: Dons Hold Their Ground”
Acalanes went toe-to-toe with higher-ranked St. Ignatius in a thrilling back-and-forth battle that ended in a 4-4 tie. The Dons came out hot in the first inning when Drew Asadorian smacked a double to score Tyler Winkles, but St. Ignatius quickly answered with a run to tie it at 1-1.
The Dons flexed their small-ball skills in the second inning, with Winkles laying down a perfect bunt to advance Nicky Fosina to third, and Dom Patitucci bringing him home with a sac fly. David Gonzales and Keegan Goddard followed with back-to-back doubles to stretch the lead to 4-1.
But St. Ignatius wasn’t having any of it, storming back to tie the game by the fourth inning. Branson Smith threw 5.1 solid innings, keeping the Dons in it with 57 strikes, while Brady Quinn came in to close out the game. Unfortunately, the game was called due to darkness, but the Dons wanted more!
Acalanes 8, Marin Catholic 7 – “Wild, Wild Dons!”
Acalanes pulled off a wild 8-7 win over Marin Catholic that had everyone holding their breath. The Dons’ offense exploded for their highest run total of the season. Hank Bauer started on the hill and Austin McMannamon (5.2 innings, 5 strikeouts) was ‘absolutely nasty’ on the mound, keeping the Wildcats in check. When McMannamon’s on the mound, you know the game is about to get a whole lot tougher for the other team.
Drew Asadorian must of had three bowls of Wheaties with scoring twice, stealing a base, and driving in two RBIs. James Stadt was right there with him, adding two runs and two hits to the mix. The Dons racked up nine hits, with Nicky Fosina, Stadt, and Keegan Goddard each contributing two. Asadorian’s power in the middle of the lineup helped, and the Dons ran wild with five stolen bases.
But the game’s real drama came in the seventh inning. With two outs and the bases loaded, Jimmy Cusumano hit a towering pop fly that was definitely not what the Wildcats’ shortstop expected. The ball was misjudged, and Asadorian and pinch runner Ben Pecci—who might as well have been powered by rocket boosters—crossed the plate, inches behind Asadorian, to tie the game. WOW! Then, Josh Lee came up clutch, hitting a ball that got bobbled by the second baseman, and Tyler Winkles crossed the plate for the go-ahead run. ALL IN!
This game had smart baserunning, clutch hits, and just the right amount of chaos. Acalanes handed Marin Catholic their first loss of the season and improved to 2-1-1. What a comeback!
Upcoming Home Games – ‘Home Sweet Home”
The Dons are finally playing at home, and will bring the heat home—get ready, Dawg Pound! Their next game is Saturday, March 15, at 11 AM against Bishop O’Dowd. It’s time to slay those Dragons, hot dawgs style! All Dons students are invited to grab ‘Hot Dawg’ lunch with the Varsity team after the game. Then, stick around for JV, following Varsity’s lead! Double the action, double the excitement.
Then, on Tuesday, March 18, it’s Lafayette Little League Day, and the Dons will face James Logan at 4 PM. Don’t forget about the Dawg Pound—the student section in right field is ready to turn up the noise!
With all the talent, hustle, and heart Acalanes has to offer, these games are a must-see. This week’s the Dons were ranked #8 in the Bay Area Top 10, the Dons know how to perform under pressure and leave it all on the field. ALL IN!
The Dawg Pound – The Place to Be!
The Dawg Pound is the new student section in right field, and it’s the ultimate spot for Dons fans! This is where the energy’s high, the spirit’s loud, and the Dons’ pride is on full display. If you want to be where the action is—cheering, hyping, and bringing the noise—the Dawg Pound is the place to be.