Mission Viejo offense gets off to early start

MISSION VIEJO - Mission Viejo scored seven runs in the first two innings en route to an 11-3 victory over Huntington Beach in a second-round game of the Newport Elks Tournament on Saturday at Mission Viejo High.

Back-to-back first inning RBI doubles by third baseman Ryan Muno and outfielder Dean Friedberg set the tone early for the Diablos (2-0).

The trend continued in the second inning as the Diablos led off with consecutive hits by second baseman Geoff Shuller and left fielder Boog Powell. Mission Viejo outfielder Austin Saenz cleared the bases with a three-run home run to right field, and shortstop Ryan Raslowsky followed suit with a solo shot to left to cap the four-run inning.

“They did a real good job at the plate today,” said Diablos coach Chris Ashbach. “They were able to capitalize on pitches up in the zone.”

Huntington Beach attempted a comeback in the fifth inning, scoring two runs on a home run by Oilers third baseman Sean Guite, but Diablos starting pitcher Chris Hubocan was able to limit the Oilers opportunities at the plate.

“He did a great job working ahead,” Ashbach said about his starting pitcher. “He challenged those hitters today.”