FPU split a PacWest doubleheader with Azusa Pacific on Friday evening, falling 15-1 in the first game before battling back to take the nightcap 9-5. The first game got out of hand late as the Cougars scored 10 runs in the final three innings but the Sunbirds responded in game two by scoring six runs in the first two innings and hanging on for the victory.

The top of the lineup was the difference for FPU as leadoff hitter Tristen Alvarez collected five hits on the day and fellow freshman Leo Carrillo, the #2 hitter, reached base in seven of his eight plate appearances (six hits) over the two games. Preston Scott extended his hitting streak to 19 games and brought his batting average above .400 after going 2-for-3 with three runs scored and an RBI double in game two.

Gene Cachu earned the win in game two for the Sunbirds, turning in a quality relief effort of 3 2/3 scoreless innings after the Cougars had hit three homers in the top of the fourth off starter Austin Tatum to cut FPU's lead to 6-5.

The Sunbirds built the lead back up however thanks to timely hitting. Nick Pate finished 2-for-3 with two RBI. Angel Flores reached base all four times he came to the plate, finishing 1-for-1 with a two-run single and three walks. Derek Arkelian went 2-for-3 and drove in a game-high three runs in the win.

Josh Medeles suffered the loss in game one, surrendering nine hits and five runs in 5 1/3 innings before the Sunbird bullpen gave up another 10.

APU's Pablo O'Connor had five hits and four RBI on the day, including a home run, to lead the Cougars. Joe Huthsing tossed eight strong innings to earn the win in game one.

The teams conclude the series with a single-game tomorrow starting at 11 am. Rickie Garcia (1-1, 4.71 ERA) is the probable starter for FPU.