SAN JOSE - Host Branham built a three-run lead through four innings facing SCVAL-De Anza leader Los Altos, looking for a big non-league upset. But the visiting Eagles became as hot as the temperature in San Jose, scoring six times in the top of the fifth inning to pull for a 10-7 victory.
Aaron Parker got Los Altos (20-1) off to an early lead in the top of the first, when he took an 0-2 fastball over the fence for a three-run home run and a quick Eagles' advantage. But Branham responded in the bottom half, Jacob Dressler doubled home Carson Ledesma, who had walked, and Carter Jones then deposited an offering for a two-run home run to tie the game.
Branham pitcher Max Orkin settled in over the next three innings, while the Bruins (10-4-1) tacked on two more runs in the second inning and another in the third to build a 6-3 lead over the one-loss Eagles. But the Los Altos lineup would not remain quiet any longer, as Conner Kendall singled, Connor Altinger was hit by a pitch and Juan Angulo walked to load the bases with no outs in the top of the fifth. Ryan Baum then singled to score Kendall and Aaron Parker singled to score Altinger, making it a one-run game. That ended Orkin's day on the mound, but not the Los Altos rally.
Ben Parker then doubled to score Angulo and Baum, putting the Eagles back in front, and Brock Susko followed with another double to score both Parker boys. Los Altos tacked on one more run in the top of the seventh, when Ben Parker singled to score Aaron Parker, after Aaron had singled and stolen second base. Branham finished the scoring with another home run from Jones.
Angulo wound up the winner on the mound for the Eagles, in his first-ever varsity action. He threw five and one-third innings in relief get the win and hold off the Bruins after their fast start.
Los Altos plays its third game in as many days on Wednesday, when the Eagles host Milpitas.
