IRVINE, Calif – The Riptide secured a narrow victory over the San Luis Obispo Blues, bouncing back from an early deficit to clinch the game.
The Blues struck first with an RBI single in the top of the second inning. The Riptide quickly responded with an RBI triple from JC Allen, scoring Camden Bates, who had reached base on a walk. Allen then crossed home plate on a balk, giving the Riptide a 2-1 lead.
The Blues tied the game in the top of the fourth inning, capitalizing on a dropped third strike that allowed the runner on third to score as Riptide
catcher Matt Spear threw to first to secure the strikeout.
Both teams’ offenses quieted down in the subsequent innings, with multiple strikeouts from each bullpen. A strong pitching performance from Riptide starter Luke Sterner kept the game within reach.
“I just wanted to compete,” said Sterner about his mindset heading into the game. “Obviously, there are things you’re trying to work on, but once I get on the mound, I focus on winning every pitch and showing that I’m a competitor.”
In the bottom of the eighth, JC Allen delivered again with another RBI, driving in the go-ahead run that put the Riptide ahead. Allen brought in Spear, who had reached base with a single earlier in the inning.
The Riptide will look for another victory tomorrow on the road against the Barons.
