SEASIDE, Calif. – Behind a masterful combined pitching effort from Drew Aguiar and Preston Kelly, the No. 12 ranked Cal State Monterey Bay baseball team claimed a 4-2 series opening win over Cal State San Bernardino Friday afternoon at the Otter Sports Complex. The victory improved the Otters to 29-10 overall and 14-7 in CCAA play.
 
Aguiar delivered a commanding seven-inning performance that set the tone for the Otter victory. The right-hander allowed just five hits and one run while striking out six batters to improve his record to 4-1.
 
The game remained scoreless through the first three innings as both Aguiar and CSU San Bernardino starter Devyn Hernandez engaged in a pitcher's duel.
 
The deadlock finally broke in the fourth inning when CSUMB manufactured the game's first runs with timely hitting. Conner Smith delivered the game's decisive blow, launching a towering two-run home run to left-center field that gave the Otters a 2-0 advantage.
 
The Otters extended their lead in the fifth inning when Jason Del Villar beat out a would-be double play to plate Bobby Benavidez.
 
CSUMB added crucial insurance in the seventh inning when Benavidez again reached base and advanced into scoring position. Del Villar came through once more, this time lifting a sacrifice fly to right field that scored the leadoff man and extended the lead to 4-0.
 
Aguiar's dominance continued through seven innings before he departed after facing one batter in the eighth. Kelly entered in relief and immediately demonstrated why he has become one of the Otters' most reliable arms out of the bullpen.
 
The right-hander struck out five batters over two innings of work, including fanning three in his initial frame after CSUSB was able to score its first run.
 
The Coyotes added another run in the ninth when pinch-hitter Noah Betanco launched a solo home run to left field, making it 4-2 and bringing the tying run to the plate.
 
Despite the loud run, Kelly retired the final batters to secure the opening victory.
 
Offensively, the Otters received contributions throughout the lineup beyond Smith's crucial home run. Benavidez reached base three times, scoring both runs and drawing two walks. Kyle Olimpia collected two hits, while Xander Sielken also recorded two hits and added a stolen base.
 
The two teams will meet for a doubleheader tomorrow. First pitch of game one is scheduled for noon.