Chris Vargas’ no-hit pitching and a sparkling defensive effort, despite three errors, carried El Rancho to a 3-1 victory over La Serna and a second consecutive DRL baseball championship.
The Dons turned four double plays, highlighted by second-baseman Mike Manriquez’s pivot at the bag and impressive play all around.
Marcus Aldecoa, limited to designated hitter responsibilities due to a still-sore groin pull, set the offensive tone when he drew a two-out base on balls in the second inning, and when La Serna second baseman Raymond Morrill muffed Carlos Cabrera’s ground ball, Aldecoa never hesitated in hustling safely all the way to third base.
He drew a futile throw from right fielder Nathan Garcia that sailed over the fence behind third base, and Aldecoa was awarded home plate and El Rancho’s first run that tied the score.
La Serna’s Victor Soto was impressive in defeat. With no offensive support, he limited the Dons to two hits, and struck out five, four of them in the last three innings to help keep the game close and give his team a chance to win.

Baseball and softball playoff pairings will be announced Monday. El Rancho, La Serna and California will represent the Del Rio League in that order.