CHICO – A wondrous tension exists in the game of baseball. The nature of the game and the length of the schedule make it imperative to keep an even keel, win or lose. But a time comes in every season in which the finish line begins to come into focus for those with an eye on accomplishing something extra special, adding urgency and excitement to every game. The wins feel bigger, as do the losses. That time has come for Chico State and Sonoma State, which open a crucial four-games series Thursday at Nettleton Stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 2 p.m.
Chico State, 20-10 overall and 15-9 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) rolled through the first half of its schedule, climbing as high as No. 8 in the nation with 13 wins in its first 15 games. But the Wildcats have won just seven of their last 15 games, raising some questions about a season that appeared destined to be special early on.
Sonoma State, normally among the teams to beat in the West Region, is in unfamiliar territory at 15-17 overall and 8-12 in the CCAA, all the way back in eighth place. The Seawolves have not turned in a sub-.500 conference record in the last 13 seasons. Following a 5-1 start they dropped 13 of 17 games and were 9-14 and a shocking 2-10 in the CCAA a little over two weeks ago. But they’ve won six of their last nine, including six-of-eight CCAA matchups, to draw to within striking distance of one of four CCAA Championship Tournament berths.
Chico State and Cal State San Bernardino are currently tied for third in the conference standings, five games clear of the Seawolves. UC San Diego, ranked No. 1 in the nation, sits atop the conference. Cal State Dominguez Hills is one game ahead of Chico State and San Bernardino in second.
The series continues with a single game at Nettleton Stadium Friday at noon and a doubleheader at Sonoma State on Saturday at noon. All four games will be broadcast locally on ESPN Radio (101.7 FM and 1340 AM) and on the Chico State Website. To listen on-line, click on the Wildcat Webcast link at www.chicowildcats.com.
