Cal Baseball Foundation

August 2016 Newsletter

Cal Baseball Foundation Golden Bear News & Notes

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Head Coach David Esquer coaches his 500th career win. Golden Bear News & Notes 3 Head Coach David esquer Gets His 500th Win O n Sunday, May 29, the Cal Baseball team took the field for its Pac-12 finale against Washington State, knowing a win would not only take the series from the Cougars, but would also give their head coach, David Esquer, his career 500th win. Fittingly, three seniors—Ryan Mason, Keaton Siomkin, and Jordan Talbot— did the work on the mound and the Bears pounded out 18 hits en route to a victory that will stand as a milestone for Cal Baseball. Ryan Mason took the ball in his last start as a Golden Bear and delivered a performance familiar to those who have watched the Auburn, California, native for four years. The right-hander spun seven innings of five-hit ball, retiring Washington State in order four times along the way and allowing just two runs while striking out three. Siomkin and Talbot shut the door to improve Cal's record to 32-21 overall and 14-16 in Pac-12 play. "Coach Esquer means the world to me and I know to every single one of my teammates," Mason said. "He's done a lot for us, so to give him his 500th win is very special." Offensively, Cal didn't leave much on the table when given a chance to produce. All eight Bears who found the hit column did so multiple times, led by a pair of three-hit efforts from senior Devin Pearson and infielder Preston Grand Pre. Pearson, who battled through injury throughout his senior season to remain a steady contributor, wound up with two triples on the day. Catcher Brett Cumberland slammed his 16th home run of the season and Cal blew the game open with eight runs over the first five innings. "You reflect on all your players, you reflect on how long you've been here, Cal's unique qualities, and the exciting times and challenges it took to get to 500. While there have been some bumps in the road along the way," Esquer said. "I really appreciate the guys putting up a great effort to bring this one home." With the win, Esquer moved his career record to 500-438-2 in his 17th season as Cal's head coach. He ranks third on Cal's all-time wins list, behind only Bob Milano and Clint Evans, and 2016 represents the sixth time he has guided the Bears to 30 or more wins in a single season. CAl BASeBAll CAreer AnD BuSIneSS netWOrk InItIAtIVe uPDAte O n April 27, the entire Cal Baseball team and coaching staff attended the third Career Network event in the Haas Club Room along with several young alumni, including Foundation board members James Holder and Sam Petke. Ashwin Puri attended on behalf of the Athletic Department, along with several Department staff who helped with event logistics. Ash shared several details about the Department's new partnership with Under Armour, which includes intern and post-graduate opportunities for Cal students. Several of the players expressed sincere interest in these opportunities. Guest speakers were Sharon Black, senior district president from Robert Half, and Andy Dolich, a seasoned sports executive and consultant. Both were fabulous and well received by the players. Special thanks to Roslyn Payne and Nick Brereton for helping us line up the speakers, and to Lori Lawn and Kriste Buckley, current player parents, who helped out tremendously once again to make the event run smoothly. Some of the 2016 seniors have recently interviewed with Cal Baseball alumni. Others are in the process of starting their job search and very much appreciate the help and support from the Foundation and the alumni network. The next formal event will be held in the fall, but in the interim, the network intends to stay active in mentoring and networking with the student-athletes. If you are not already participating in the Cal Baseball Career and Business Network Group on LinkedIn, please join and encourage others in our alumni network to join as well. SAVe tHe DAteS Alumni event October 23 Conclusion of Fall Practice with Blue & Gold Game - more event Details Soon ralph Walker Cup October 24 Contra Costa Country Club For love of the Game – Gala january 28, 2017 university Club/memorial Stadium

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