Two Home Runs Lead Golden West to Victory

It may have been a gloomy day in Huntington Beach, but Golden West's play was anything but, topping Palomar 5-2 at Hoover Field.

Golden West (2-0) featured timely hitting, which led to scoring runs in the first and third innings, giving starting pitcher Mitchell Moore a one-run cushion. Moore and Palomar (0-2) starter Michael Jordan battled hard surrendering 2 runs a piece and neither factored into the decision. 

Palomar tied the game in the fifth inning with a frozen rope infield single that hit right off Moore. The Rustlers decided to go to the bullpen in favor of David Wiggins (1-0), who finished the game and earned the victory.

Scoring ceased after the fifth inning for both teams, until Rustler center fielder Frank Califano hit a two-run inside the park home run to left field in the seventh inning. Palomar left fielder Matt Matlock made a diving attempt at a shallow line drive, but was unsuccessful and Califano sprinted around the bases to complete the home run.

Designated hitter Moises Montes put the game out of reach hitting a moon shot to left-center field for the first Rustler home run hit out of Hoover Field this season. First baseman Jordan Lucio extended his hot streak at the plate going 2-for-4.

Golden West will travel down to Palomar this Saturday and then Chaffey this Tuesday. The Rustlers do not play at Hoover Field until the game against L.A. Harbor on Feb. 11.

Written By: Kyle Infante