Royal Survives Westlake Rally, 7-6

Royal High survived a seventh-inning rally by Westlake and held on for a 7-6 victory in a Marmonte League baseball game Wednesday at Royal.

With Westlake trailing, 7-2, after six innings, Ryan Cope hit a three-run home run against Royal freshman Russell O’Brien. One out later, Kevin Howard hit a solo shot to pull Westlake to within 7-6.

Highlander closer Gabe Gapol entered the game and picked up his third save by inducing Mikey Brin to fly out to right field.

Seven players drove in runs for Royal (6-6, 2-1 in league play), including Mike Byer, who was three for three.

Highlander starter Matt Rainer held Westlake (9-4-1, 2-1-1) to two runs on five hits in six innings.

Rio Mesa 18, Rancho Cucamonga 7--Alex Tellez (1-0), a junior making his first varsity start, allowed seven hits and the Spartans (13-1) won their third consecutive game in the Santa Barbara tournament at Westmont College.

Richard Martinez had three hits and six RBIs for Rio Mesa.

Camarillo 18, Santa Barbara 7--Andy Kroneberger had two hits and three RBIs for the Scorpions (13-3-1) in pool play of the Santa Barbara Tournament.

Crescenta Valley 8, Burbank 2--Junior Josh Herman (3-0) scattered nine hits for the Falcons (7-6) in a Babe Herman tournament consolation game.