SAN MARCOS — An error-filled first inning by the Jaguars allowed the Comets to jump out to a six-run lead, and despite being outhit 12-to-6 in the game, Palomar baseball won 12-6 to stay undefeated in conference play.
On March 3, the Comets defeated the Jaguars 9-4 at Southwestern College. The teams met again on March 5 at Bob Vetter Field where both teams got on the scoreboard early.
Comets’ starting pitcher Ryan Herrod (#30) gave up two runs in the top of the inning off two RBI singles by Southwestern.
The deficit became insignificant after Palomar’s offense scored eight runs in the bottom half of the first with help from the Jaguars’ sloppy defense.
Braedon Peterson-Cheek (#8) scored first for the Comets, stealing home on a wild pitch.
After loading the bases, Jaguars’ starting pitcher Sergio Garcia was replaced by Ty Vann, and in the next at-bat Vann overthrew a ball to his first baseman that caused three Comets to score.
Palomar loaded the bases again and Peterson-Cheek struck a deep line drive to centerfield, clearing the bases after an errant throw by the centerfielder brought Peterson-Cheek in to score and put the Comets up 8-2 .
The Comets scored four more times in the game, including a solo home run by Elijah Stephens (#39), two RBIs off Gavin Kramer’s (#1) bat and a home plate steal by Justin Tucker (#3).
The Jaguars also scored four runs following the first inning and outhit Palomar 12-to-6, but they committed costly errors and walked nine batters which ultimately cost them the game.
Palomar took a 12-6 win, advancing to a 4-0 record in conference matchups this season.