IRVINE, Calif. — After nearly being no-hit in the series opener, Cal State Fullerton’s bats woke up as the Titans (22-12, 6-2) pounded 18 hits to earn a 13-2 win and a split of Saturday’s doubleheader with rival UC Irvine.
Fullerton chased Irvine starter Crosby Slaught during a seven-run second inning that was highlighted by Clay Williamson’s three-run triple on the first batter after Slaught’s departure. The Titans added three runs in the third inning to make it 11-0.
That was more than enough for fabulous freshman Kenny Mathews, who improved to 4-0 with seven innings of strong work. He allowed two runs on six hits while striking out seven and not walking a single batter.
Six Fullerton hitters recorded multiple hits, led by Matt Chapman’s three knocks. Chapman, Williamson and Michael Lorenzen each had three RBI.
The nightcap was a complete reversal after Irvine starter Andrew Thurman took a no-hitter into the ninth inning of the series opener earlier in the day. Thurman allowed an infield single to Austin Kingsolver on a chopper up the middle to lead off the ninth inning. A pair of walks loaded the bases, but closer Race Parmenter entered to collect his fourth save, getting a pair of ground balls for a double play and the final out of the game.
Tommy Reyes got the Anteaters on the board with an RBI single in the fifth inning. The ‘Eaters added two runs in the sixth inning and another run in the seventh.
The Big West rivals will conclude the series Sunday. The rubber match is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. PST and will be televised on ESPNU.
Check out the photo gallery from Saturday afternoon’s UC Irvine/Cal State Fullerton matchup below:
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