Apaches Split Conference Doubleheader with Arizona Western, Move to 15–4 Overall
The Cochise College Apaches earned a split in Saturday's ACCAC doubleheader against Arizona Western College at Bo Hall Field, winning the opener in dominant fashion before falling in a back-and-forth nightcap. With the split, Cochise moves to 15–4 overall on the season.
Game One: Cochise 10, Arizona Western 1
The Apaches set the tone early in the first game, erupting for six runs in the second inning en route to a 10–1 victory.
Cochise finished with 10 runs on 10 hits, powered by three home runs. Landon Blais led the offensive charge, going 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs. Shiryu Sato added two hits and two RBIs, while Jorge Cardenas and Sawyer Fech each homered. Andrugh Yee chipped in with a double and two RBIs.
Chase Chapman sparked innings throughout the game, drawing three walks and scoring twice.
On the mound, sophomore Collin Smith delivered a complete-game performance, allowing just four hits and one run over seven innings while striking out seven to improve to 4–0 on the year. Smith kept Arizona Western off balance all afternoon and never allowed the Matadors to build sustained momentum.
Game Two: Arizona Western 12, Cochise 11
The second game turned into an offensive shootout, with Arizona Western rallying late to claim a 12–11 win.
Cochise battled back from an early deficit, plating five runs in the fourth and five more in the sixth to take control. Gavin Mesa powered the offense with a home run and three RBIs, while Sato also homered and drove in three. Blais collected three hits and an RBI, and Chapman and Cesar Chavira each added two hits.
Despite the offensive production, Arizona Western answered with a five-run seventh inning to swing the game. The Matadors collected 16 hits in the contest and used late timely hitting to secure the split.
Conference Battle Continues
The Apaches showcased their offensive depth throughout the doubleheader, combining for 21 runs and 22 hits across the two games. Cochise continues to show the ability to score in bunches as conference play intensifies.
Up Next
Cochise returns to non-conference action on Tuesday, March 3, hosting Ottawa University JV at Bo Hall Field in Douglas, Arizona. First pitch is scheduled for 12:00 p.m.
