The visiting Moorpark Raiders struck first with two runs to open the game, but the Cougars played the long game and charged back in a, eventually, lopsided victory over the Raiders, 14-3.  Cuesta Starter Justin Cortez shook off a two-run, five-hit first inning to collect his team-leading sixth victory of the year.  Cortez, who scattered four hits over his last six innings on the mound, has earned the winning decision in five of his last six outings.  Relievers Marc Byrum and Tyler Stephens each worked an inning to close out the game, while not allowing an earned run.  The Raiders' two run-lead in the first inning were erased by the third inning, thanks Tristan Usher's solo home run in the second inning and a two-run home run by Aidan Botti in the third.  Usher and all-WSC Shortstop Victor Heredia tied with a game-high three hits in the game, while Usher scored a game-high four times and Heredia drove in a game-high four runs, including Usher three times.  The victory moved the Cougars to 18-13 overall and 12-5 in Western State Conference play. 

The Cougars head back to Moorpark on Saturday (1 PM) to complete their series with the Raiders and complete the first part of their WSC schedule. The circuit shall take a break next week, before starting their single game round of play with six games against six different WSC foes in 10 days.  During their one-week WSC bye, Cuesta shall host Long Beach City for two games on April 11 (2 PM) and 12 (Noon).