West Valley and American River, two teams from two of the CCCAA's top conferences, open the 2018 season with expectations of improved play and gains in league standings. The Vikings (12-27, 6-14 Coast-Golden Gate) and the Beavers (17-23, 6-18 Big 8) closed out 2017 with losing streaks that relegated them near the bottom of their conferences. Both teams, however, will feature outstanding returning sophomores and promising newcomers when they take the field in the 2018 opener at ARC on January 26 at 2:00pm. The teams battle again on the 27th in Saratoga. First pitch on the 27th is 1:00pm.