The catching position was a source of strength for the Nanaimo NightOwls this past season, with Michael Easter a big reason why. (Nanaimo NightOwls)

By Ian Holmes

strong seasons

Several Nanaimo NightOwls garner individual accolades following WCL season

Aug 17, 2023 | 1:29 PM

NANAIMO — While the city’s summer season collegiate-level baseball squad missed the playoffs, several Nanaimo NightOwls are being recognized for their strong individual efforts.

The West Coast League revealed its first and second All West Coast League rosters on Thursday, Aug. 17 to recognize the 16 team circuit’s top talent.

Owls’ relief pitcher Andrew ‘Bear’ Pinedo secured a first All WCL honour, following a sensational season with 30 strikeouts and an earned run average of 0.96 in 15 appearances.

A product of Palm Springs, CA who’s attending Arizona Christian University, the 20-year-old left-handed hurler allowed just six hits in 18.2 innings of often dominating work as a NightOwl.

A pair of Owls used productive offensive seasons to secure second All West Coast League list recognition, including catcher Michael Easter, a strong contact hitter.

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The Azusa Pacific University sophomore of suburban Los Angeles, CA compiled a .315 batting average, 21 RBI and nine doubles in 124 plate appearances.

Owls’ outfielder Riley Paulino was also a second All West Coast League recipient.

The University of Pikeville (Kentucky) outfielder orchestrated a consistent year, which was interrupted by a late-season injury.

Ethan Rivera, Elijah Ickes, Jakob Fleury and Payton Robertson received honourable mentions for the All West Coast League consideration.

This week the WCL announced its Most Valuable Player award, which went to Yakima Valley Pippins first baseman Jace Phelan.

The league’s top pitcher honour went to Halen Knoll of the Edmonton Riverhawks.

Recently concluding its second WCL season, the Nanaimo NightOwls posted a record of 26-28, five games behind the Kelowna Falcons for the final North Division playoff spot.

The Corvallis Knights secured their incredible seventh consecutive WCL championship by defeating the visiting Victoria Harbourcats 5-0 on Monday, Aug. 14.

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ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes