ROSSMAN IS STILL THE BOSSMAN: Ex-La Verne Little Leaguer Big Part of UC San Diego’s Record-Breaking Season

Matt Rossman pitched UC San Diego to a complete game victory over Cal Poly Pomona, which also extended the Tritons' winning streak to a school record 17 games.

Pitching with his bachelor’s degree already in his pocket, former La Verne Little League All-Star Matt Rossman threw a 5-2 complete game for UC San Diego over Cal Poly Pomona at John Scolinos Field on Friday afternoon.

A big crowd turned out to watch their local kid make good. After Rossman surrendered two runs in the first, he was a rock the remainder of the game, twirling a five hitter to take his record to 6-0 and help the UC San Diego Tritons extend their winning streak to a school record 17 straight. UC San Diego, now 26-3, is ranked No. 1 in NCAA Division II.

After playing for La Verne Little League, Rossman played for Claremont and Coach Al Leyva (now at Damien) before earning a scholarship to UC Riverside. After throwing only three innings his sophomore year, he made the tough decision to transfer to UC San Diego, and it’s been a perfect match. Last season, Rossman pitched the Tritons to their first College World Series victory ever.

Matt after the game with parents Rick and Lauren.

“I thought about it for a while,” said Rossman, looking even taller than the 6-foo-5 towering presence (menace) he poses on the mound. “I didn’t want to leave Riverside, but I couldn’t pass this opportunity up.

“I love the way they run this program,” Rossman added. “They run it like a D-I program. I like the coach, I love the pitching coach, the location in San Diego, and the degree. It was all a perfect fit.”

Having already graduated, Rossman’s teammates call him their super senior.

“Next quarter is going to be a trip, with no school,” Rossman said, wearing an ice pack on his right shoulder and smiling broadly as several well-wishers came up to shake his hand after his dominating performance. I’ll need to get a part-time job or something.

“It’s going to be fun. I am enjoying the hell out of this season. It’s so much fun with this group of guys. We’re off to a great start. And we can only get better. I truly believe that.”

Who’s going to argue with him? It’s hard to be better than perfect!