BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The Cal State Bakersfield baseball team kicked off their 2025 season at home against Lamar University. On the second day of the series, Bakersfield secured their first win of the season under new head coach Jordon Banfield. Saturday's 8-1 victory came against a Lamar squad that was second in the country a year ago with 44 wins.

Bakersfield opened the scoring in the bottom of the third with a powerful home run from center fielder Nick Mascaro, setting the tone for the rest of the game. The `Runners had a strong showing in the bottom of the seventh, scoring four runs on four hits, pushing the lead to 5-1 over the Cardinals. They continued their offensive momentum in the following inning, adding three more runs to cap off the night.

Ryan King impressed out of the bullpen, making his Roadrunner debut at Hardt Field. He pitched 4.1 innings, allowing just two hits, two walks, and no runs, while helping Bakersfield keep Lamar quiet.

“It’s good to see the guys get a positive result from all the work they’ve put in,” said Banfield. “Tonight, they just played baseball instead of overthinking things, and when we do that, I think we can be a competitive team. I can’t say enough about the three pitchers, especially Ryan King. They were outstanding, pounding the zone with fastballs.”

Offensively, Mascaro led the `Runners with a standout performance, collecting three hits, two runs, and one RBI thanks to his first home run of the season. Cody Hendriks and Elijah Pelayo both played a crucial role during the game, both putting up two hits. 

Cal State Bakersfield will return on Sunday to close out the series with a rubber match against Lamar. First pitch at Hardt Field is scheduled for 10 a.m. (PT). Tickets are available at GoRunners.com/Tickets.