One of the keys to the success of the Cerritos College baseball team has been the pitching of its ace, Erick Morales.

The sophomore from Downey High School has a record of eight wins and three losses, a 2.48 earned run average, and 56 strikeouts in 90.67 innings.

Falcons’ coach Ken Gaylord said that Morales has battled the whole year. “He’s had some games where he wasn’t so good and then he’s had some games that he really competed.

“Every time out he gives you what he’s got.”

In conference play, Morales has a 6-2 record and 2.44 ERA.

As a freshman, he went 4-0 and started six games

He said, “It’s been a real good two years. Have some good memories.”

He added that he had been pitching since he was little. “That’s all I’ve done. I’ve always pitched.

“There’s nothing like pitching, because you can control the game.

“I’m just hoping that we can finish off strong.”

He hopes to get drafted by a major league team in June.

“We’ll see what team picks me up, Where I end up going.”

But first, the Falcons must face Glendale College in their first postseason game.

Glendale has already beaten Cerritos twice this season.

“The first game is always the toughest game.

“We’re tough on the road, so we’ll come on strong. We’ll prevail as a winner.”

And now, a personal note.

The end has come to an eventful and exciting year as your sports editor.

It was wonderful going to many athletic events and seeing outstanding performances, and meeting many people along the way.

Thanks go to the coaches and athletes of Cerritos College for taking the time to talk to me and supply me with their insight.

Thanks also to Sports Information Director John Van Gaston, for providing me with the statistics and information as needed.

Thanks to my Talon Marks editors and colleagues for making this a great experience. Especially Armando and David, for their fine stories.

And thanks to you, the reader, for allowing me, through the Talon Marks, to bring the coverage of Cerritos College sports to you.

Have a nice summer.