SEASIDE, Calif. - In a critical doubleheader in the midst of a four-game California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) series Saturday, the Chico State baseball team displayed a mix of offensive firepower and pitching challenges as they split the day with Cal State Monterey Bay. The Wildcats took game one in close fashion, 8-6, while the Otters responded with a 5-1 win in the nightcap.

The Wildcats stand at 17-11 overall and 10-9 in CCAA play, while the Otters hold a closely matched record of 16-8 overall and 9-6 in conference games.

The day began under overcast skies with a slight chill in the air; however, the Wildcats heated things up quickly in the first game, securing an 8-6 victory. Chico State's offensive lineup was led by Michael Baker, who crossed the plate three times. Additional runs were contributed by Daniel Vierra with two and Casey Vogan, Ernie Arambula, Phoenix Casias, and Carson Case each adding one. Arambula also contributed significantly with two RBIs, supporting a strong outing from starting pitcher Evan Tomlinson. The Wildcats' defense held firm despite a late surge from the Otters, anchored by a homerun from Noab Zertuche in the ninth inning.

However, the momentum shifted in the second game as the Otters slugged their way to a 5-1 win over the Wildcats. Cloudy skies and stronger winds set a different tone, as the Wildcats managed only a single run by Carson Case, who also recorded the team's only RBI, thanks to Brady Wright. Rocco Borrelli took the mound in game two but faced a challenging outing, giving up the five runs despite striking out six batters in 4.1 innings.

Noteworthy performances from Phoenix Casias, who had multiple hits across both games, and a key double from Casey Vogan in the ninth inning of the first game, underlined the Wildcats' determined effort.

The final game of the series is set to take place Sunday at noon.