
What loomed as a showcase matchup between the top two pitchers in the Pacific View League turned into a breakout performance for Camarillo High’s new leadoff hitter.Robert Ortiz, a transfer from Olympia, Wash., banged out five hits in five at-bats, including an RBI single in the fourth inning and a bases-clearing double in the seventh, as the Camarillo baseball team pulled into a deadlock atop the PVL with a 7-2 victory over host Oxnard on Tuesday.
The senior shortstop, who gained eligibility after the first week of league competition, stole the spotlight in the matchup of ace vs. ace on the mound: Camarillo’s Hunter Virant against Oxnard’s Oscar Sandoval.
“Just trying to help the team,” Ortiz said. “With runners on, I’m looking for something I can drive. This feels good because I know it’s a big game.”