2025 70+ National

SoCal Dodgers 5, Dragons 3

The SoCal Dodgers captured their seventh title at the MSBL Desert Classic, beating the Dragons in the championship game, 5-3. They did it in typical Dodger fashion, combining good pitching, solid defense and timely hitting with great team chemistry. This marked the 10th time playing in the Championship classic in the last 12 appearances by the Dodgers, seven of which have seen them bring home the trophy.

The vast majority of the team have been together for more than 10 years and five players have been together for over 20 years. While the team only plays in two or three tournaments a year, strong friendships among the teammates have evolved that transcend any play on the field. Talented players + great chemistry is hard to beat.

While the Dodgers played solid ball all weekend, their focus was razor sharp for the championship game. Larry Valenzuela was the MVP of the tournament, catching one game and throwing two complete games, including the trophy winner.

Albert Ulibarri went 4 for 4 and Jesse Woods went 3 for 4 in the championship to pace the Dodgers offensively while the outfield of John Riley, Mike Elliot, and Steve Green combined for three outfield assists in the final game and provided stellar play all weekend.

The Dodgers beat some very competitive teams to get to the championship, highlighted by a pitching gem by Armando Valle against the Dragons that secured the top spot in pool play. Lance Parker, Dan Roman, Woods, and Green all provided key offensive hits in the tournament and the team sparkplug, Steve “Pigpen” Ashman, dove around the field making several key plays at second base.

Rick Fahrney, Steve Cooper, and Vic Reskin helped anchor first base and Ted Tannenbaum and Bob Mitchell each made some timely contributions during the weekend. Rick Breitinger and Mark Stone also performed well on the mound, pacing the boys in blue who only gave up 18 runs in their five games in the tournament.