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VALLEY GLEN - It was a frustrating night for the Pirates against a quality opponent in the Arroyo Seco Saints, who won the second leg of this home-and-home to deal Ventura County their second loss in as many nights.
Starting pitcher Cole Dale threw a quality start, carrying the Pirates through five innings, recording six strikeouts and allowing just three hits and two walks. Unfortunately, the Saints capitalized on the Pirates' four defensive errors; three of their six runs scored were unearned. Relief pitcher Eric Crouse did keep the Pirates within striking distance, holding Arroyo Seco scoreless and hitless in the sixth and seventh innings. Jason Ajamian had a 3-for-4 night, and Steven Gonzalez belted a double in the fourth. Apart from that, the Pirates struggled offensively, striking out 13 times in the game and getting picked off at first base twice by Arroyo Seco starter Merek Sears. Ian McIntyre scored the Pirates' lone run, racing home after his steal of third base forced a throwing error by the Saints' catcher. He was the only Pirate to reach third base in the contest, doing so twice and being thrown out at home after the second time he stepped on the hot corner. The Pirates face another California Collegiate League opponent on Friday night as they take on the Conejo Oaks at Sparky Anderson Field, home to California Lutheran University Baseball in the spring. First pitch is slated for 4:30.