Jared Grindlinger Seals Championship Win in Final Game at Huntington Beach High

Jared Grindlinger achieved his dream Saturday afternoon, standing on the mound during his last high school baseball game with a championship on the line. The Huntington Beach Oilers had built a solid 5-0 lead against San Diego Cathedral, but with two outs in the top of the seventh and the bases full, the highly regarded left-handed pitcher stepped in to relieve Jared Marchbank. Although the lead diminished to two runs due to an error, an uncaught third strike, and a wild pitch, Grindlinger struck out the final batter, sealing a 5-3 victory and the title for his team.

Reflecting on the moment, Grindlinger remarked, “I knew I’d be facing the top of their lineup and those guys are all great players but I was ready for it. To do this with my best friends who I’ve grown up with my entire life means everything to me.” As he prepares to graduate on Wednesday, Grindlinger has much to celebrate, especially as he has reclassified to become eligible for the upcoming Major League Baseball draft, where he is a potential first-round pick.

The 6-foot-1, 170-pound pitcher and outfielder has been a standout player, and his family ties to the sport run deep. His older brothers, Bradley and Trent, who both played for Huntington Beach, were present to support him during the championship game. Coach Benji Medure, who has led the team for 26 seasons, expressed his admiration, saying, “Jared loves to compete and he fell in love with the culture and the family aspect of our program.”

During the regional playoffs, Grindlinger showcased his talent, going four for four with a home run and five strikeouts in a first-round victory against Patrick Henry, and later contributing to an 11-3 win in the semifinals. In the championship game, he opened the scoring with a home run in the first inning and made crucial plays in the field.

Grindlinger’s decision to reclassify and graduate early was not easy, as he expressed sadness about missing the chance to help his coach reach significant career milestones. Coach Medure noted, “He was a freshman and the second game that season I got my 400th win. Jared said, ‘I’m gonna be part of 400 and 500.’” Despite the challenges, Grindlinger credits his family for their support and guidance throughout his journey in baseball.

As he looks toward his future, whether in the MLB or at the University of Tennessee, Grindlinger remains grounded and optimistic. “Whatever happens — whether it’s the draft or college — I’m good,” he concluded.