(Shotgun Spratling)

UCSB Sets Tone With Opening Win Over Fullerton

FULLERTON, Calif. — Chris Lincoln trotted from the right field bullpen at Goodwin Field. The righthander was being summoned to try to close out a one-run game that UC Santa Barbara had once led 7-1.

Cal State Fullerton had sandwiched a wild pitch with a pair of singles to open up the ninth inning, bringing home a run and putting the tying run on first base. Gauchos head coach Andrew Checketts called on Lincoln to do the job he’s been groomed for all season — get the final three outs in a pressure-packed situation.

The 6-foot-4 junior reached back and[…]