Josh Hickey (Westmont College) got the start and worked 4.2 innings, but the Waves struck early, scoring three runs in the first inning, all with two outs. That two-out trend continued into the second, where a double, passed ball, and single tacked on another run to make it 4–0.
Shortstop Camden Sos making a play.
(Photo courtesy of Joey Gray)
Meanwhile, the Riptide struggled to find offensive rhythm. Despite drawing early walks, they stranded runners in both the first and second innings and were held hitless through the first three frames. Their best early chance came in the fourth when back-to-back singles put a runner in scoring position, but a fielder’s choice ended the inning.
“We just didn’t put together good at-bats today. I think we got out of our approach at the plate,” said head coach Bryan Evans when asked about the team’s missed offensive opportunities.
The Waves continued to apply pressure, scoring in the fifth, sixth, and blowing the game open with a five-run seventh. Riptide relievers Hauze Fragoso (Cal State Bakersfield) and Jace Behnke (Grand Canyon University) were called in for relief, but the Waves strung together extra-base hits and timely knocks to push the game out of reach.
Down 11–0 entering the bottom of the seventh, the Riptide finally broke through. A two out double by Riley Hunsaker (Cal Baptist University) and a single by Camden Burdick (Cal State Fullerton) helped plate two runs and avoid the shutout. Still, it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback, as the Riptide were held to just four hits on the night.
Riptide pitchers combined to allow 16 hits, 11 runs (all earned), and five walks, while the offense left six runners on base.
The Riptide will return home on Sunday, June 29, to take on the Conejo Oaks at 5:30 p.m.
