The Pirates outlasted the Orange County Surf 14-9 Monday night at Cal Poly Pomona.
Inland Valley scored early and often. In the bottom of the third Dylan McDowell launched his first home run of the year. It was a three run shot which helped the Pirates jump out to an 8-1 lead.
However, the Surf refused to go quietly. In the eighth they trailed 10-3 before stringing together five runs on five hits and making it a two run game.
The Pirates responded by scoring four runs in the bottom half of the inning. Maryland bound Michael Piniero delivered a two run single to put the game out of reach.
Both teams have qualified for the playoffs. The Pirates lead the Surf by a game and own the tie breaker by winning the season series.