California used a six-pack of first-inning runs to take a commanding lead over Harrisburg Thursday night, April 27.
The Pintos then used a four-run fourth frame to enforce the run-rule and take home an 11-1 victory in five innings.
California had 11 total hits, 10 of which were singles.
Leadoff hitter Kory Stephens led the way with three hits and three RBI, while Jacob Wolken and Cole Schlup had two hits apiece.
Schlup also had a pair of RBI while Jon Pardoe drove in two runs, as well. The Pintos' big first inning was set in motion following a Harrisburg error with two outs. Following that, California's Hayden Green laced an RBI double into left field, which started a run of six straight Pintos reaching safely.
"That six spot in the first inning really gave the kids some confidence," California coach Matt Moulder said. "The kids, for the most part, did a nice job today. They had a good approach, got good pitches to hit and knew what to do with them."
The Pintos did not make an error in the win, as starter Isaac Wells was consistently backed up by some stellar defense in the middle infield.
California's outstanding day in the field started and ended with Stephens at shortstop. After getting the opening out by snagging a line drive, Stephens clinched the win in style by throwing out Harrisburg's Garrett Gash at the plate, following a Bulldogs single.
"Defense is the key for us," Moulder said. "We have to throw strikes, catch the baseball and just do the simple things. Today, I thought the kids came ready to play and did a really nice job."
Wells went four strong innings for the Pintos to earn the win. After giving up a run in the first inning on a pair of hits to two of the first three Harrisburg hitters, Wells settled down to record five consecutive outs. His final line included two strikeouts and four hits allowed.
California senior Brayden Ash pitched the fifth inning for the Pintos. Ash gave up a pair of hits and walked one, but didn't allow a run, thanks to the defense from Stephens, Wolken and Sam Kirby for the final out.
With Thursday being California's senior night, it was fitting that all four of the Pintos' seniors ended up playing key roles in the game.
Wells and Ash held Harrisburg to just one run on the mound; Kirby had a hit, run and made the tag for the final out; and first baseman Jackson Trachsel had an RBI, two runs scored and reached safely three times.
"They're a real hard-working, great bunch of kids," Moulder said. "It's a great situation when we can let those seniors shine on senior night. Everybody played well and had a nice performance. It's certainly a positive memory they can take with them the rest of their lives."