Wildcats dominate rival Heritage in regular-season finale

Elijah Karney was the winning pitcher Thursday in Paloma Valley's 14-4 victory. (Photo by Rick Rowell)

Pitcher Elijah Karney scattered seven hits and was supported by an 18-hit attack by his offense Thursday as Paloma Valley High’s baseball team beat Heritage 14-4 in the Wildcats' last game of the regular season.

Paloma Valley led 5-1 after two innings, 9-1 after three, and 13-1 after four innings. Heritage scored three runs in the top of the fifth inning, but Paloma scored a run in the bottom of the frame to push the lead back to 10 runs and end the game early.

Karney allowed 3 earned runs, struck out 3 and walked 2.

The offense was led by infielder Walker Bush, who went 3 for 3 with a double and 4 RBIs. R.J. Holmes went 2 for 3 with a double and 2 RBIs. Gilberto Rodriguez went 2 for 2 with 3 runs scored and Jake Wells went 2 for 3.

The Wildcats finished the regular season with a 17-10-1 overall record and 8-4 for second place in the Ivy League. Their victory avenged a 1-0 loss to Heritage two days before. They will learn their first-round CIF playoff opponent on Monday. Heritage’s record is 11-10 overall, 6-6 in the Ivy League.

Walker Bush throws to first after making a force play at second base against Heritage. (Photo by Rick Rowell)

 RJ Holmes connects for a double to contribute to the Wildcats' offense. (Photo by Rick Rowell)