TAFT --- Jordan Phillips smashed a two-run home run to set off a six-run, third-inning rally in a 6-4 Taft College win over visiting Merced College in both teams' Central Valley Conference opener on Tuesday.
Game 2 of the three-game conference series is set for Thursday (Feb. 24) in Merced with the finale back in Taft on Saturday (Feb. 26) at noon.
The Cougars trailed 2-0 before putting up a six spot in the third. After Chris Scherbarth was hit by a pitch to lead off the frame, Phillips launched his two-run shot to tie up the ball game.
Tanner Phillips added a two-single that scored Tyler Vanneste and Tyren Dorrance. A fielder's choice off the bat of Dorrance allowed Jesus Cruz to score and Scherbarth smacked an RBI double in his second at bat of the inning to bring in Tanner Phillips and the Cougars final run.
Jordan Phillips (2 for 5, run) and Tanner Phillips (1 for 3, BB, run) both had 2 RBI each to lead TC at the plate.
Starter Chris Shaffer earned the win, allowing four runs and eight hits over seven innings. He struck out seven and walked none. Blake Logan picked up the save with a scoreless ninth.
Taft improved to 5-7 overall and 1-0 in conference play with the win.