Alex Leach Named Big 8 Conference Coach of the Year

Modesto Junior College Athletics proudly celebrates Head Baseball Coach Alex Leach, who has been named the Big 8 Conference Coach of the Year following a standout 2026 campaign that saw the Pirates capture the conference championship and earn a berth in the postseason.

In just his third season at the helm, Leach has quickly transformed MJC Baseball into one of the premier programs in California junior college athletics. His leadership this spring guided the Pirates to the top of the highly competitive Big 8 Conference, building on the momentum he established upon returning to Modesto.

This year's championship run reflects the culture Leach has instilled—one centered on development, accountability, and opportunity. Under his direction, the Pirates have not only succeeded on the field but have continued to thrive as one of the state's top pipelines to four-year programs. During his tenure, 32 players have earned scholarships to continue their careers at the NCAA level, including 17 to Division I programs.

Leach's impact was felt immediately upon taking over the program. In his first season in 2024, he led the Pirates to a historic turnaround, finishing 27-14 overall and 16-8 in conference play while hosting a playoff series for the first time in over two decades. That season also saw 12 players advance to Division I schools, signaling a new era of success for MJC Baseball.

The 2026 season has taken that foundation even further. The Pirates' Big 8 Conference title and postseason appearance are a direct result of Leach's forward-thinking approach to player development. Utilizing industry-leading technology and modern training philosophies, the program has become known for producing high-level prospects ready to compete at the next level.

Before his return to MJC, Leach gained valuable experience in professional baseball as an amateur scout with the Atlanta Braves organization, where he evaluated top MLB Draft prospects across multiple states using advanced data and video analysis. His background in both player development and scouting has given MJC a unique edge in preparing student-athletes for the demands of the modern game.

With a conference championship secured, a playoff run underway, and a growing reputation as one of the state's elite programs, MJC Baseball continues to rise under Leach's leadership. His recognition as Big 8 Conference Coach of the Year is a reflection not only of wins and accolades, but of the lasting impact he is making on the program and its student-athletes.

As the Pirates look ahead to postseason competition, the foundation built by Coach Leach has positioned Modesto Junior College as a force to be reckoned with—now and into the future.