SEASIDE, Calif. – Behind seven strong innings from senior pitcher Nate Rohlicek and a four-run first, the Cal State Monterey Bay baseball team defeated San Francisco State, 5-3, Thursday evening at the Otter Sports Complex.
 
CSUMB has now forced a three-way tie atop the CCAA standings as Cal State Dominguez Hills lost to Cal State LA, and the Otters took care of business with the Gators in the opener. All three teams boast a 24-13 record with three games to play.
 
Rohlicek (4-2) dazzled, allowing two runs – one earned on three hits while striking out six. Dylan Gardner earned his second save after striking out three in the final two innings.
 
The Otters got off to a fast start in the opening frame, scoring four runs on the strength of loading the bases without recording an out atop the order, plating two runs on walks, a Max Farfan fielder's choice and a Dominic Felice single.
 
CSUMB scored a big insurance run in the eighth when KW Quilici singled home Noah Zertuche.
 
Jimmy Garcia and Felice collected three hits apiece as the Otters outhit the Gators, 12-7.
 
The two teams will continue to battle for the conference crown tomorrow with a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m.