Preview: UC Santa Barbara Gauchos at California Baptist Lancers

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (Interstat) — Two of the state’s hottest college baseball teams meet Monday when the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos visit the California Baptist Lancers at Riverside Sports Complex.

First pitch is set for a clear, 77-degree evening.

The Lancers (31-8) enter with one of the nation’s top winning percentages, though they are coming off a 3-2 series loss at Tarleton State. Their strength has been a deep pitching staff, led by right-hander Bryan Peck. In his last start Saturday, Peck threw five no-hit innings, allowing one earned run with six strikeouts in a no-decision. Over his last three appearances, he has surrendered just five hits in 16 innings.

The Gauchos (25-12) arrive riding momentum after taking two of three from UC Irvine, including an 8-4 victory Sunday. Reliever Cole Tryba was pivotal in that win, tossing 4 2/3 hitless innings with three strikeouts. The right-hander has been dominant lately, allowing only four hits over his last 18 2/3 innings spanning seven appearances, with 30 strikeouts in that stretch.

Offensively, UCSB third baseman Xavier Esquer drove in four runs in Sunday’s win. California Baptist’s lineup, which exploded for 19 runs against UC Riverside last Tuesday, will look to rebound after being held to two runs in each of its last two losses.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a high-scoring affair, favoring California Baptist 7-6.

The game is a final non-conference tune-up before both teams resume league play Friday. UCSB opens a Big West series at home against Cal State Fullerton, while California Baptist hosts Utah Tech in Western Athletic Conference action.