Walk-off celebration turns violent in La Salle-Bishop Amat HS baseball game

It’s not uncommon for emotions to run hot when high school athletes are battling for a league title.

Spectators found out what happens when those emotions run too hot as a near brawl broke out between La Salle and Bishop Amat last week.

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Battling for the Del Rey League title, Bishop Amat overcame deficits of 5-0 and 8-5 to win on a walk-off hit-by-pitch with the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth inning. After the Bishop Amat batter touched first base, finalizing the win, he ran straight to left field where he was followed by the majority of his teammates who stormed from the dugout.

There were no issues when the Bishop Amat players ran by the La Salle second baseman and shortstop. However, once they reached the left fielder, the situation escalated.

At least four players, including the batter who was hit by the pitch, immediately got into the face of the La Salle left fielder and began taunting him. While the left fielder appeared to not be bothered at first, he was intentionally bumped by a Bishop Amat player and didn’t take to kindly to it.

After turning around to say something, more Bishop Amat players appeared and began taunting even more. At this point, multiple La Salle players, including the catcher, entered the mix and pushing and shoving began.

A near brawl was about to break out but cooler heads prevailed as coaches and players from each team began pulling back the agitators.

Speaking postgame, La Salle head coach Andy Nieto had some very strong opinions about what took place between his current and former teams.

“I’m embarrassed for Bishop Amat,” Nieto said. “I wore that uniform and that would never ever happen on my watch. They won fair and square, and they deserve to celebrate, 100%. But you don’t rush my left fielder. That’s not OK.”

“I have a lot of respect for President Richard Beck and Principal Gabe Escobar. I think they do a fantastic job. They would be embarrassed, and I’m embarrassed for you, Bishop Amat.”

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“I wore that uniform with great people and with great parents and did some great things. It was a great chapter in my life. But this is not OK,” he said.

When interviewed postgame, Bishop Amat head coach Robert Prieto gave his thoughts on the matter.

“These kids get out of control … totally uncalled for. I was a little disappointed,” he said.