Baseball Routes Crosstown Rival in Commanding Fashion

The stage for a crosstown rivalry was set as the Riverside City College baseball team played host to the Mt. San Jacinto College Eagles in non-conference action. The Tigers proved to be too much for the Eagles on all fronts as they banged out 16 hits leading to 17 runs en route to a 17-2 win.

Riverside acted as a well-oiled machine that produced nothing but clutch hitting and quality pitching. It stemmed from a strong approach at the plate. The Tigers etched an immediate four spot in the bottom of the first inning followed by producing a nine spot in the bottom of the third inning. From that moment on, Riverside controlled the game.

Freshman right fielder Matthew Darr continued to pound the ball by going 4-for-5 with a double, three RBI and two runs scored. He extended his hitting streak to seven games while barreling 13 hits in that span. Three of those knocks have acted as extra base hits. Furthermore, he has driven in 13 runs.

Sophomore catcher Steve Ramirez has broken out of his mini slump by recording another 2-for-4 night at the plate. He drove in three runs and scored twice in the process. Freshman first baseman Seth Spencer has found a nice role in the heart of the order. He went 3-for-6 with a team-high four RBI and scored twice.

Strong pitching fueled an explosive offense as sophomore starter Marques Johnson earned the start and cruised. He tossed four innings of action while allowing a mere run and punching out five batters. Five more relievers split the rest of the time on the bump. Highlighting the bullpen was sophomore duo Jacob Billiu and Matthew Henry. They each faced the minimum and struck out one.

Riverside (12-3) will continue action on Tuesday, February 25 against LA Mission at home at 5 p.m.