BERKELEY, Calif. (Interstat) — The California Golden Bears will look to continue their recent dominance over the San Francisco Dons when the regional rivals meet Wednesday at Evans Diamond.

The Golden Bears (20-18) blanked the Dons (18-18) 8-0 in their most recent meeting on April 6 in San Francisco. California pitcher Otto Espinoza was key in that victory, throwing three hitless innings of relief. Espinoza, a player to watch for the Bears, has been inconsistent but brilliant at times, including a four-inning, one-run outing in a win at Pittsburgh on April 12.

San Francisco, coming off an 11-0 loss at Portland on Sunday, will seek to snap a two-game skid and even the season series. A focal point for the Dons is pitcher Adrian Valdez, who started that loss to Portland, allowing four earned runs over 3 1/3 innings. Valdez has struggled in his last two appearances but delivered four strong innings in a win over Seattle on March 29.

Both teams are near the .500 mark midway through the season, making this non-conference matchup a chance to build momentum. The Dons have lost four of their last six, while the Bears have won five of their last eight.

According to Interstat, the Golden Bears are heavy favorites. Their game simulator projects a 6-3 California victory, and their ELO rating system gives the Bears a 74.90% probability to win.

Following Wednesday’s contest, the teams are scheduled to meet again in Berkeley on Friday as part of a busy weekend for both squads. California will then travel to face Miami (FL), while San Francisco hosts Pacific.

First pitch is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon at Evans Diamond.