HAYWARD, Calif. - The Cal State East Bay baseball team secured a 9-5 victory against the Menlo Oaks in the series finale on Sunday afternoon at Pioneer Baseball Field. 
 

The contest remained tight throughout, with neither team able to build a substantial lead until the later innings. Menlo struck first when Carter Harris tripled to right center and scored on a passed ball in the top of the first. However, East Bay's offense ignited immediately, plating four runs in the bottom half. Dominick Najar and Gio Martini both crossed home plate on wild pitches, setting the tone for an eventful inning that culminated in Danelle Daniels launching a solo home run to give the Pioneers a 4-1 lead.

Menlo chipped away at the lead, capitalizing on Pioneer miscues to tie the game at 4-4 in the top of the sixth. The Oaks took advantage of a dropped fly ball and a throwing error to push across three unearned runs. However, East Bay's determination shone through as they reclaimed the lead in the bottom of the frame. Nick Thomson scored the go-ahead run on an RBI single from Martini, who then showcased his speed by stealing second base. Luke Brown followed with a clutch RBI double, extending the Pioneers' advantage to 6-4.

The Oaks threatened once more in the seventh, narrowing the gap to 6-5, but East Bay's offense responded emphatically. Najar came through with a crucial two-run single, driving in William James and Danelle Daniels. Martini continued his stellar day with an RBI single up the middle, driving in Micah Cervantes to push the lead to 9-5.

East Bay's pitching staff played a significant role in securing the victory. Starting pitcher Jackson Ellis set the tone early, tossing 5.0 innings of scoreless ball while striking out nine Menlo batters. Andres De Leon took over in the sixth and, despite allowing three runs (only one earned), managed to keep the Oaks at bay for the final four innings to earn the win.

• Dominick Najar and Gio Martini led the offensive charge, each collecting three hits and driving in two runs.
• Gio Martini showcased his speed on the basepaths, swiping three bags to put pressure on the Menlo defense.
• Danelle Daniels provided early power with a solo home run, part of his 2-for-4 day at the plate with two runs scored and an RBI.
• Pioneers' starting pitcher Jackson Ellis dominated through 5.0 innings, allowing just three hits and no earned runs while striking out nine.

Cal State East Bay: 2-5
Menlo: 2-1
 

The Pioneers will look to build on Sunday's win as they open their CCAA schedule with a road trip to face Sonoma State. The series opener is set for Friday, February 21, with first pitch scheduled for 12 p.m. at Seawolf Diamond in Rohnert Park, California.