Three-run first powers Eldon past Pintos

California was solid for the final six innings on Tuesday night, April 19, against Eldon. Unfortunately, four hits led to three first-inning runs for the Mustangs and a quick lead propelled Eldon to a 6-1 win in a Tri-County battle.

In a rematch of an early-April slugfest that saw the Pintos (8-8) take home a 12-9 win, Eldon had the benefit of having its ace on the mound on Tuesday. Andrew Rodriguez came out firing for the Mustangs (3-12), striking out eight in five innings and only allowing one run in the win.

For the Pintos, starter Jacob Wolken settled in after allowing four singles for three runs in the first frame. The sophomore finished with five strikeouts and five runs allowed in five innings of work. Outside of a third-inning run, California was unable to give Wolken any other run support. The Pintos tallied just one extra base hit, and it came on the second batter of the game when Landon Mouse clubbed a double into the left field fence.

For Eldon, Trenton Kidwell was a force at the plate. The first baseman had three hits and three RBI in the Mustangs’ win.