BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The Cal State Bakersfield baseball team gave the UC Riverside, a run for their money, showcasing a dominant seven-run explosion in the seventh inning that put the game out of reach. Starting pitcher Ryan King had a quality start, throwing six innings, striking out 10 batters, walking none, and surrendering only one earned run, solidifying his performance as one of the best of the season.

The game was a tense affair for the first four innings, with neither team able to break through. The Highlanders were the first to strike, putting two runs on the board in the top of the fifth inning. However, the `Runners responded with a surge in the bottom half of the seventh inning, starting with a clutch two-out rally. Adam Salazar, the Bakersfield native, ignited the offense with his second double of the season, getting on base after two quick outs.

Salazar’s timely hit set the stage for a dramatic turn of events. Noah Alvarez followed with his first triple of the season, bringing Salazar home and tying the game. Evan Cloyd then delivered with a double that gave the Runners a one-run lead. Still with two outs, the momentum continued to build for CSUB. Cody Hendriks and Tyler Leroy each contributed with timely hits, putting additional runs on the board. The rally culminated in Elijah Pelayo’s single to center field, which brought in two more RBIs, and the Runners capped off a seven-run inning.

This explosive inning marked the most runs CSUB has scored in a single inning this season, showcasing the team’s ability to capitalize on opportunities and build momentum when it matters most. With King’s solid pitching performance and the offense coming alive in the seventh, Bakersfield secured a well-earned victory over Riverside.

Bakersfield will be back at Hardt field for the second game of the series tomorrow, with first pitch set at 6:30 PM. To purchase tickets visit GoRunners.com/Tickets.