Big second inning powers Irvine past University 13-4 in PCL baseball game

Irvine’s Marc Filia takes a swing during Monday’s game against University (Photos: Courtesy Jim Tomlin, For OC Sports Zone).

Irvine High’s baseball team had a solid day Monday afternoon in a Pacific Coast League game against University at Uni, defeating the Trojans 13-4.

To see the slide show, please click on the first photo

Irvine's Ryan Barlow fires a pitch in Monday's game vs. University.

Irvine coaches follow the action against University Monday.

Andrew Keys of University takes a swing during Monday's game.

Alex Qu of University rounds the base during Monday's game.

Edward Del Pozo of Irvine takes a swing against Uni.

Leonard Memon of Irvine takes a swing against Uni.

The Vaqueros (7-2, 2-1) scored five runs in the second inning to break open the game. The game was a makeup of Friday’s rained out contest.

“It was a solid day for us,” said Irvine Coach Gabriel Cota. “We had a little bit of a shaky start but we were able to grind and get our offense going. We have a lot of respect for University. They had an off day but we know they are dangerous so our guys were locked in. It’s a big week and I thought our guys did a great job of focusing on today only.”

Grant Lockwood led Irvine, going 3 for 4 with a double, triple, three RBI and two runs scored.

JC Allen was 3 for 4 with a double and Patrick Hackworth was 2 for 4 with a double and two RBI.

Ryan Barlow pitched the first four innings, striking out nine and allowing one earned run. Edward Kole finished up on the mound, striking out two and allowing one earned run.

University (4-4, 1-2) was led by Jackson LoBianco, who was 3 for 4 with a double and an RBI, Alex Qu, who was 1 for 3 with a double and three RBI and Ryan Miller, who was 2 for 4.

“Irvine came out with great energy and took advantage of our early defensive miscues,” said University Coach Michael Thompson. “Barlow was able to settle in and limit us offensively after the first. Luckily it’s a busy week and we won’t have long to think about this one and can get ready for Woodbridge tomorrow (Tuesday at Ryan Lemmon Stadium).”