Boxscore

SEASIDE, Calif. - Northwest Nazarene jumped to an early 6-1 lead, but Cal State Monterey Bay used a pair of big innings to defeat the Crusaders 16-8 in the opening game of a three-game series Tuesday at Seaside, Calif.

The two teams will complete the series with a doubleheader Wednesday beginning at noon.  The Crusaders, now 4-1 overall, had to attempt a quick turnaround as they arrived in Seaside at 4:30 a.m. this morning after completing a doubleheader in Redding, Calif. at 10:30 p.m. on Monday night against Simpson University.

The Otters scored seven runs in the third to go ahead 8-6 and then later snapped an 8-8 tie with a run in the fifth, five more in the seventh and two in the eighth.

CSUMB banged out 18 hits, including three by center fielder Brent Sargenti. Catcher Peter Estes and third baseman Jacob Flores each drove in three runs.

First baseman Jimmy VanBeek, third baseman Joel Oliver and shortstop Boone Farrington all had two hits for NNU. Right fielder Jon Keller hit the game's lone home run.

CSUMB improved to 2-4 overall, with Thadd McAplin earning the win for the Otters.  NNU senior Andy Pottenger (0-1) took the loss, pitching in relief of Crusader starter Tim Stuvland.