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Apaches Earn Major ACCAC & Region 1 Honors, Nelson Named ACCAC Assistant Coach of the Year

Cochise Honors
May 4, 2026

The No. 20 Cochise College Apaches capped off a historic 2026 regular season with a strong showing in the ACCAC and NJCAA Region 1 postseason honors, highlighted by five First Team selections, one Second Team honoree, and recognition of the program's coaching excellence.

Cochise finished the regular season at 43–13 overall (20–10 ACCAC), tying the program record for wins (43) set in 2005, while also breaking the single-season home run record (60+) and securing the No. 2 seed in the Region 1 Playoffs.

Adding to the accolades, Cochise College Baseball's Assistant Coach Austin Nelson was named ACCAC Assistant Coach of the Year, recognizing the staff's role in developing one of the most dynamic and complete teams in the conference.

 First Team All-ACCAC / Region 1 Selections

Shiryu Sato (Infield)

Sato delivered a standout season both offensively and defensively, anchoring the infield while serving as a key power bat in the lineup. He was instrumental in Cochise's record-breaking home run season, highlighted by clutch moments including a three-run home run in a comeback win vs. Yavapai. Sato consistently produced in big conference matchups and was one of the most reliable run producers on the roster.

Gavin Mesa (Outfield)

Mesa set the tone at the top of the lineup all season long, combining consistency with clutch hitting. He recorded numerous multi-hit games, contributed key RBIs in late-game situations, and played a major role in Cochise's comeback victories. His ability to get on base and create scoring opportunities made him a critical piece of the Apaches' offensive success.

Landon Blais (Outfield)

Blais was one of the most complete players in the conference, delivering consistent production at the plate while also contributing on the mound when needed. He recorded multiple multi-hit and multi-home run performances, including a two-home run game vs. Central Arizona, and consistently came through in high-pressure moments.

Jorge Cardenas (Catcher)

Cardenas provided leadership behind the plate and played a key role in guiding a pitching staff that delivered throughout the season. Offensively, he contributed timely hits, including a home run in the regular season finale, and consistently drove in runs in key situations. His defensive presence and game management were vital to Cochise's success.

Andrugh Yee (Designated Hitter)

Yee emerged as one of the most dangerous hitters in the region, delivering game-changing performances throughout the year. He recorded multiple multi-RBI games, including a game-winning three-run home run in extra innings vs. Southern Nevada and a four-RBI performance in the regular season finale. His ability to produce in clutch moments made him a centerpiece of the offense.

Second Team All-ACCAC / Region 1 Selection

Austin Cushman (Pitcher / Gold Glove Nominee)

Cushman was a cornerstone of the Apaches' pitching staff, delivering consistent quality starts throughout the season. He highlighted his year with a complete-game shutout vs. Southern Nevada and multiple strong performances against top conference opponents. His defensive ability also earned him recognition as a Conference Gold Glove Nominee.

Coaching Excellence Recognized

Cochise's success extended beyond the field, as the program's Assistant Coach Austin Nelson was named ACCAC Assistant Coach of the Year. The honor reflects the staff's role in player development, game preparation, and building a team that combined power hitting, depth, and pitching consistency at a championship level.

A Historic Season

The Apaches' postseason honors are a reflection of a season filled with milestones:

  • 43–13 overall record (ties program record)
  • 20 conference wins
  • 60+ home runs (new program record)
  • Wins over multiple nationally ranked opponents
  • No. 2 seed in Region 1 Playoffs

Up Next: Postseason Begins

Cochise now turns its focus to the NJCAA Region 1 Playoffs in Henderson, Nevada.

  • Thursday, May 7
  • #2 Cochise vs. #3 Arizona Western
  • Time: TBD

With a historic regular season behind them and multiple players recognized among the best in the conference, the Apaches will look to carry that momentum into postseason play.