Apaches Open Conference Play with Offensive Explosion, Defeat Arizona Western 16–8
The Cochise College Apaches opened ACCAC conference play in emphatic fashion Friday afternoon, outslugging Arizona Western College 16–8 to earn their fifth consecutive win and improve to 14–3 overall (1–0 conference).
In a back-and-forth contest early, Cochise used a relentless offensive attack and key bullpen performances to pull away late, finishing with 16 runs on 16 hits in the conference opener.
Big Innings Fuel the Apaches
Arizona Western jumped ahead with a six-run third inning, but the Apaches answered immediately. Cochise responded with four runs in the third, five in the fourth, and four more in the fifth to seize control of the game.
Shiryu Sato led the offensive charge with a 3-for-5 performance, including two doubles and a home run, driving in five runs. Jorge Cardenas delivered a huge night at the plate as well, going 2-for-5 with a double, triple, and four RBIs. Anthony Montez added three hits and four RBIs, including two doubles, while TJ Shaw Jr. finished 3-for-4 with an RBI and three runs scored.
Gavin Mesa scored four runs and added a home run, while Andrugh Yee chipped in two hits and an RBI as Cochise's lineup produced from top to bottom.
Bullpen Slams the Door
Starter Dylan Torres worked through three innings before turning it over to the bullpen. Shane Hooper provided 2.2 innings of relief, and Ben Couvreur closed out the final 2.1 innings without allowing a run to secure the win.
Despite Arizona Western collecting 10 hits, Cochise limited the damage in the later innings and maintained offensive pressure throughout.
Momentum Continues
With the victory, the Apaches extend their winning streak to five games and open conference play with a statement performance at Bo Hall Field. Cochise has now scored 10 or more runs in its last five games, showcasing the depth and firepower throughout the lineup.
Up Next
Cochise continues its series against Arizona Western tomorrow, Saturday, Feb. 28, with a doubleheader at Bo Hall Field in Douglas, Arizona. First pitch is set for 12:00 p.m. as the Apaches look to continue their strong start to conference play.