Pirates Cap Historic Season with Heart, Grit, and Deep Playoff Run

The 2026 season will forever hold a special place in the history of Modesto Junior College baseball. What began as a group determined to change the narrative became one of the greatest seasons the Pirate baseball program has ever seen. Highlighted by the program's first-ever Big 8 Conference Championship, a thrilling postseason run, and a hard-fought battle against conference rival Santa Rosa Junior College in the 3C2A NorCal Super Regionals.

Under the leadership of head coach Alex Leach, the Pirates established themselves as one of Northern California's top teams all season long. After missing the postseason just one year ago, MJC responded with resilience, toughness, and unity, finishing with an MJC record breaking 33 wins and earning the No. 3 seed in the 3C2A NorCal Regional playoffs.

The defining moment of the regular season came in the final Big 8 Conference series against longtime rival Santa Rosa Junior College. The Pirates won two of three games to secure the first Big 8 Conference Championship in program history, a breakthrough achievement that reflected the work, sacrifice, and belief of everyone involved with the program.

That momentum carried directly into the postseason.

Hosting the opening round of the NorCal Regionals, the Pirates showcased their grit in a demanding four-game stretch against Reedley College and College of San Mateo. MJC battled through pressure-filled moments and close contests, advancing to the 3C2A NorCal Super Regionals while energizing the home crowd at Bo Aiello Field in Jerry Streeter Ball Park.

Waiting for the Pirates in the Super Regionals was a familiar opponent: Big 8 rival Santa Rosa Junior College. The best-of-three series showcased the toughness and competitiveness of both programs. Filled with intensity, emotion, momentum swings, and outstanding baseball, MJC battled until the very end. In the decisive final game of the series, the Pirates came up just one run short in a dramatic finish, closing out their season with the same fight and determination that defined the entire year.

Throughout the series, the Pirates competed with heart and determination, refusing to back down against one of the top programs in the state. MJC continued to display the toughness and chemistry that defined the season from opening day through the final out. The series served as a fitting conclusion to a remarkable postseason journey and a season that elevated the standard of Pirate baseball.

The 2026 Pirates were fueled by standout performances across the roster. Conference MVP and Freshman of the Year Troy Morrow emerged as one of the top players in California, while key contributors such as Kannon Sharpe, Braden Giardina, Ryan Silva, and Caleb Hendricks helped build one of the deepest and most competitive teams in recent MJC history.

More importantly, this team built a culture centered on accountability, togetherness, and belief. Time and again, the Pirates responded to adversity with toughness and composure. They represented Modesto Junior College with pride and created memories that will last for years to come.

While the season may have come to an end in the Super Regionals, the accomplishments of this group will not soon be forgotten. From conference champions to playoff warriors, the 2026 Pirates reminded everyone what MJC baseball is capable of becoming.

The future is bright for Pirate baseball — and this season was only the beginning.