OCC offense returns in in 8-0 win over Cypress

COSTA MESA -- For the first time in recent memory, the Orange Coast College baseball team played like a team worthy of 18 wins and a high ranking in the Southern California rankings.

With a strong supply of offense, steady pitching and stellar defense, the Pirates played a complete all-around game and cruised to an 8-0 win over visiting Cypress on Friday at Wendell Pickens Field.

"When we play like that, we're a pretty dangerous team," OCC head coach John Altobelli said. "We played a great game in all aspects and that was very nice to see. Let's hope we see some more of it."

After being held to just six runs over the past three games (two losses), the Pirates (18-8, 6-5 in the Orange Empire Conference) found success early and often, pounding out 13 hits and eight runs against the Chargers (14-9, 5-6). 

Zach Nehrir and Greg Espinosa each collected three hits for the Pirates, ranked fifth in Southern California in the most recent CCCBCA poll. Nehrir also scored twice and drove in a run, while Espinosa scored once and collected an RBI.

Danny Jimenez collected a double and drove in three runs, while Manny Argomaniz added a two-run double to the collection of clutch hits. Cristian Salina (one run, one RBI) and Cody Bruder (one run) each had two-hit days to help further frustrate the Chargers' pitching staff.

While the offense was finally clicking on all cylinders, the Pirate pitching staff put forth another dominating performance.

Starter Joe Reta threw 4 1/3 innings and despite allowing six hits, the freshman righty used a pair of double plays to wiggle out of early jams. He was relieved by sophomore righty Kyle Dowdy (3-1), who went the rest of the way and allowed just two hits with no walks and two strikeouts over the final 4 2/3 innings to collect the win.

Dowdy was in control throughout his stint, allowing just one Charger baserunner to reach second base.

The Pirates will now take some time off before returning from Spring Break to play at Santa Ana College on Thursday, April 4 at 2 p.m. OCC's next home game will take place on Saturday, April 6 against the Dons, beginning at 12 p.m.