Carpinteria lost the rubber game of the week’s three-game Citrus Coast League series with Nordhoff Friday, falling 4-2 in Ojai.
Rangers senior ace Roman Mahler went the distance, striking out nine, but the Warriors outhit the hosts seven to five. Joaquin Ramirez started for Carpinteria, striking out five.
Carpinteria missed some opportunities, including stranding two runners with no outs in the first, and leaving the tying run at the plate in the seventh inning.
Beto Martinez paced the Warrior attack, collecting a sharp single and a long double as he scored both of the team’s runs. Ninth batter Judah Torres was on base twice as he singled and walked.
“This was a good baseball game that hinged on just a few plays,” Carpinteria coach Pat Cooney said. “They got two timely hits on offense where we had some bad luck during our chances. The game was encouraging for Ramirez, who surrendered early runs but really had the best command we’ve seen from him after that.
“The Ranger pitcher was good, and especially good when he needed to be. Sometimes you just tip your cap and turn the page.”
The Warriors are now 5-5 in Citrus Coast League play and 6-5 overall. They host Fillmore on Monday in another CCL makeup game.
Nordhoff is 5-8-1 in league play and 6-10-1 overall.