The High School All-Star Baseball-Softball Classic returns for its 29th edition this week.
The event is set for Friday at San Joaquin Delta College starting with opening ceremonies for the baseball game at 4:45 p.m. with softball to follow at 5:15.
Seventeen recent graduates of area high schools are among the standouts selected to represent the South baseball and softball teams. Athletes from more than 35 schools in San Joaquin County and surrounding areas are considered for the event. They’ll get together for their lone practice this afternoon at Delta.
Notable baseball all-stars include reigning Valley Oak League Offensive Player of the Year Alex Gouveia, who was the starting shortstop for Manteca the past four seasons, and Trans-Valley League Pitcher of the Year John Eicher of Ripon.
Weston Ranch is represented by three players on the South baseball squad: four-year catcher and All-VOL first-team selection Carlos Drain, middle infielder Amier Bowen and outfielder Austin Cappas. East Union pitcher/first baseman Andrew Morones, Lathrop infielder Matt Julien and Ripon infielder/pitcher Gerald Nix are also part of the South.
For softball, VOL Pitcher of the Year Hayley Leonard heads four East Union grads playing for the South. She’s joined by first baseman/pitcher Shelby Cefalu, shortstop Danielle Ramos and outfielder Danyelle Godoy.
The quartet of Lancers will compete alongside Lathrop’s Jailyn Annese, Joselyn Hurtado and Karina Lopez, Sierra’s Alyssa Arredondo and Weston Ranch’s Stephanie Barba.
General admission cost is $8. Children ages 8 and under are free.