No. 15 Apaches Outslug Central Arizona 13–9 in Series Opener
CASA GRANDE, Ariz. — The No. 15 Cochise College Apaches powered their way to a high-scoring conference victory Friday afternoon, defeating Central Arizona College 13–9 in the series opener in Casa Grande. With the win, Cochise improves to 40–11 overall (17–8 ACCAC) .
Offensive Firepower Carries Cochise
In a back-and-forth battle, Cochise used timely hitting and a pair of big innings to secure the win, finishing with 13 runs on 13 hits and eight walks.
The Apaches struck early with runs in each of the first three innings, including a solo home run from Gavin Mesa and a home run from Andrugh Yee to keep pace after Central Arizona jumped ahead 3–1.
After falling behind again in the middle innings, Cochise delivered the decisive blows:
- A four-run sixth inning to take the lead
- Another four-run seventh inning to create separation
According to the scoring summary, Cochise erased an 8–7 deficit with a surge that included a go-ahead RBI from Anthony Montez and a clutch three-run double by Cesar Chavira to break the game open .
Big Performances at the Plate
The Apaches received contributions throughout the lineup:
- Gavin Mesa: 2-for-5, HR, 3 RBIs, 2 runs
- Andrugh Yee: 3-for-3, HR, 2 RBIs, 4 runs scored
- Cesar Chavira: 3 RBIs, including the key bases-clearing double
- Jorge Cardenas: 2-for-3 with 2 walks and an RBI
- Zach Cavanaugh: reached base multiple times and scored three runs
Cochise totaled 11 RBIs, showcasing depth and production from top to bottom.
Pitching Holds Late
On the mound, Austin Cushman got the start, striking out six over five innings. After Central Arizona mounted a comeback, Dylan Torres delivered a key relief outing, working 3.2 innings to earn the win and stabilize the game.
Ben Couvreur recorded the final outs to secure the victory.
Back-and-Forth Battle
Central Arizona jumped out early with a pair of home runs in the first inning and later reclaimed the lead in the sixth. However, Cochise responded immediately each time, demonstrating resilience in a game that featured 22 combined runs and 25 total hits.
Up Next
Cochise continues the series against Central Arizona College on Saturday, April 25, with a doubleheader in Casa Grande, Arizona.
- First pitch: 12:00 PM