Canyons Still in Hunt for First Win After 8-3 Loss to Ventura

The College of the Canyons baseball team remains in the hunt for its first win of the season after losing 8-3 to visiting Ventura College at Cougar Field on Tuesday.

Canyons (0-3) trailed 5-0 after two innings and was never able to recover, as the Pirates lineup came up with runs in four of the first five innings to establish a secure advantage. 

COC starter Justin Dehn lasted just three innings in his first start of the season. The right hander was tagged for six runs on five hits, including a first inning home run from Ventura center fielder Elijah Alexander that gave the Pirates a 4-0 lead.

The Cougars attempted to claw back into the game, and were in striking distance after a two-run third inning that made it 5-2, but ultimately could not overcome the Pirate's lead.

Shortstop Ivan Lomelli smacked a solo home run in the third inning, which was promptly followed up with an RBI single from catcher Anthony Lepre. 

Canyons would not score again until third baseman Calvin Estrada recorded an RBO sac fly that scored Cole Kleszcz. 

Lepre finished the game 2-for-4, likewise for right fielder Chris May and second baseman Anthony Medina. 

COC pitchers Robert Hemer, Connor Dreyer and Sean Ward each pitched a scoreless inning of relief.

The Cougars return to action at 12 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, in a home game vs. Allan Hancock College.

— Story and photos by Jesse Muñoz/COC Sports Information