With back-to-back 30+ win seasons and consecutive GSAC Tournament appearances, the OUAZ Spirit enter the 2026 campaign with both momentum and new challenges. After graduating 24 seniors and returning only two position players, Head Coach Tim Montez and his staff are focused on retooling, developing team chemistry, and building on the competitive culture that has shaped the program's identity.
Building on Last Year
Montez acknowledged that the path to a third straight conference tournament appearance will look different than in years past. With so many new faces, the Spirit will emphasize team chemistry and sound defensive play across the diamond, while leaning on returning experience on the mound to stay competitive through a demanding preseason slate. "We return some key arms, so that experience on the mound will need to carry over to give us the best chance early on as we grow as a team," Montez said.
Impact Returners
While most of the lineup turns over, several familiar names will play key roles. Joel Esparza, Matt Carter, Liam Padden, Austin Humphres, Micha DelRio, and Brandon Enders all return with significant playing time. Montez believes their leadership will be vital for such a young roster, helping establish standards both on and off the field.
Newcomers and Expanded Roles
Many of OUAZ's newcomers are actually returners who saw limited action last year but are now primed for bigger roles. Montez highlighted players such as Camden Knutson, Evan Mendoza, Mason Whitehead, Rolen Driscoll, Jackson Brenna, Liam Kiffer, Josiah Dominguez, Bailey Viscardi, Mason Martino, and Sam Lachot as athletes who must take developmental leaps to impact the season.
On the true newcomer front, OUAZ added promising position talent including Isaiah Nava (2B), Trevor Lesperance (SS), Chaz Clemons (1B/DH), Ben Ulyott (C/1B), Joey Ruiz (C), Jake Blair (1B/3B), and Manny Morales (LF/DH). The pitching staff also receives a major boost with new arms such as Tyler Johnson (RHP), Diego Quinonez (RHP), William Fife (LHP), Winston Roberts (LHP), Casey Regalla (RHP), and Francisco Lopez (RHP). Montez expects many of them to log meaningful innings this spring.
A New Voice in the Dugout
The Spirit also welcomed Assistant Coach Tanner Wickham to the staff. Coming from Ottawa University Kansas, where he served as recruiting coordinator and hitting coach, Wickham brings familiarity with the university system and strong player rapport. "He has a humble, faith-filled approach that relates well to our players, and blends in well with our athletic administration," Montez noted.
Conference Outlook
The GSAC landscape continues to elevate, especially with the addition of La Sierra this season. Montez anticipates a dogfight for the four GSAC Championship spots in Irvine. "Our conference is one of the strongest in the country. From top to bottom it's going to be very competitive, and all of our teams are well-coached and quality programs," he said.
Matchups to Watch
Every weekend presents challenges, but Montez circled the non-conference matchup against Johnson University, a regional qualifier returning significant experience. The matchup also pairs two longtime coaching friends in Montez and Head Coach Dave Serrano, who share Division I coaching roots. Serrano's return to Surprise is one Montez looks forward to.
Opening Day Preview
OUAZ opens the season tomorrow at 2 PM against Bethesda on Texas Rangers Practice Field 3. Montez expects a competitive matchup and stressed fundamentals. "Bottom line, we will have to play clean defense and attack the strike zone while maximizing scoring opportunities. Bethesda will be well-coached and play hard to the last pitch. We need to stay committed to the process and compete against the game."
Message to the Spirit Community
As the season begins, Montez hopes fans will join the Spirit journey. "We look forward to having our Surprise community come out and support our young men. Our student-athletes will compete hard and respect the game with a Christ-like approach." OUAZ plays most home dates on the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals side fields during spring training, and admission is free — just bring your own chair.
Montez closed with a fitting reminder: "Give 'em Heaven!"
Season Opener Information
Opponent: Bethesda
Date: Tomorrow
Time: 2 PM
Location: Rangers Spring Training Practice Field Three
Admission: FREE
Fans can stay up to date on all things OUAZ Athletics at ouazspirit.com and on social media via Instagram and X (Twitter).
