[Box score] [CSUMB postgame presser]

Cal State Monterey Bay took the first game in a best-of-3 series with Cal Poly Pomona at the NCAA West 1 Regional, 8-2, on Friday.
 
Ryan Platero (7-0) bounced back from his start in the CCAA Tournament, allowing two runs over five innings, and the bullpen added four scoreless innings to give the Otters the win.
 
Cal State Monterey Bay pitchers benefited from working with the lead after the top of the third as CSUMB plated eight runners between the third and fifth innings. After scoring two in the third on an infield single and a fielder's choice, Kyle Guerra drove in JJ Engman with a two-out single to extend the lead to 3-1 in the fourth.
 
The Broncos got one back in the bottom of the inning on a sac fly by Nick Lugo before CSUMB broke the game open with a five-run fifth. Chase Lindemann and Brady Miguel reached base to lead off the inning, and Nico Hartojo followed by clearing the bases with a three-run homer. Three batters later, Cole Murchison connected on a two-run shot to extend the lead to 8-2.
 
Guerra finished with three hits, including a double and a run scored. Engman and Brady Miguel added two hits apiece as the Otters outhit the Broncos 11-6. Miguel has now reached base safely in 43 consecutive games, and Lindemann in 39 straight.

Tyler Chaffee had a pair of hits for Cal Poly Pomona, and Nin Burns II and Johnny Pappas reached base three times.
 
The teams will complete their best-of-3 series on Saturday, May 20. The first game is scheduled for Noon, and if Cal Poly Pomona wins, the 'If Necessary Game' will be played approximately 30 minutes after.