Lake Elsinore Storm defeat Ontario Tower Buzzers in playoff opener

The Lake Elsinore Storm defeated the Ontario Tower Buzzers 10-9 in the opening game of the Cal League Playoffs on Tuesday. Despite a late-game rally, the Tower Buzzers were unable to overcome an early deficit in their first-ever postseason appearance. Ontario scored six runs in the bottom of the ninth inning, highlighted by home runs from Ching-Hsien Ko and Joendry Vargas, but the comeback attempt fell short when Easton Shelton struck out to end the game. Lake Elsinore relied on strong pitching from Jesus Castro, who allowed one earned run over six innings, and multi-hit performances from Alex Conover. The series now shifts to Lake Elsinore for the remaining contests. The Tower Buzzers must win Thursday to force a decisive third game on Friday.

• 5:25 AMYahoo Sports — Ontario Falls in Game 1 on the Cal League Playoffs