The California League announced its Executive Awards for the 2016 season Wednesday.

The Bakersfield Blaze won organization of the year and General Manager Mike Candela received the award for 2016 executive of the year.

The Blaze had the best season since D.G. Elmore bought the club back in 2006. Ballpark attendance increased by 40.4% and ticket sales increased by 21.5%.

The baseball team made 119 team community appearances and raised over $27,000 for local non-profits.

Candela was promoted to GM in the middle of the baseball season.

Teams submitted nominations and winners were voted on by their peers.