Cougars tie with Santa Barbara for Channel League championship title
As the 2025 spring baseball season enters its final stretch, the Ventura High School Cougars hold a league record of 10-2-1, placing them in a tie at the top of the Channel League standings with Santa Barbara High School.
The Cougars’ season has included contributions in multiple areas, including pitching, hitting, and team coordination. Junior infielder Luis Jungo ‘26 referenced these aspects when reflecting on the differences between this year’s squad and the previous one. “The team chemistry this year is a lot better compared to last year. We are more together and we’re just a real team,” Jungo said.
Ventura has recorded series wins against San Marcos, Buena, Oxnard and Rio Mesa. Despite splitting the series with Pacifica and recording one loss and one tie against Santa Barbara, the Cougars remain in a position within the league standings. Their ability to secure two wins in multiple series has helped maintain their title contention.
A number of seniors have played key roles on both offense and defense. Wylan Nelson ‘25 has contributed as a two-way player, serving as both a shortstop and a pitcher. Nelson currently holds a batting average of .372, along with 4 home runs. On the mound, he has maintained a 1.48 ERA and has been a consistent part of Ventura’s pitching rotation and lineup.
Third baseman and pitcher Josh Woodworth ‘25 has been one of the team’s statistical leaders at the plate. Woodworth leads the team in both batting average (.388) and home runs (5), providing offensive production in key games.
Ventura’s pitching staff has delivered steady performances throughout the season. Caleb Sebek ‘25, who also plays first base, has recorded a 1.62 ERA, contributing depth to the rotation. Cooper Tinkey ‘25 leads all Ventura pitchers with a 1.07 ERA, the lowest on the team.
Infielder Carter Kimble ‘25 has added 4 home runs this season while also contributing defensively at both shortstop and second base.
The Cougars concluded league play as co-champions of the Channel League, finishing with an 11-2-1 record alongside Santa Barbara High School. They are scheduled to compete in the first round of the CIF Southern Section Division II playoffs on Friday, May 16, against Simi Valley High School.
