TRACY — Kimball separated itself from the rest of the crowded pack, perhaps for now, in the Valley Oak League with its 1-0 win over Sierra on Thursday.

The first-place Jaguars (4-1, 10-7 overall) scored the lone run in the fifth when Justin Schober singled home Preston Wilson. 

Sierra (2-2, 7-7) was swept in the two-game set and looks to bounce back with the first of two make-up games with Central Catholic at home on Saturday. The Timberwolves wasted a solid outing from pitcher Slyder Blyth, who struck out three and walked one in a four-hitter.

Kimball countered with Gabe Cortinas, who racked up six strikeouts while giving up no walks and three hits. Julian Cantu, Mateo Molieri and Blyth got the hits for Sierra. Kimball’s Joseph Slotnick and Drew Reddick each hit a double.

Southern League

Ripon Christian 5,

Gustine 3

RIPON — Two days after hurling a two-hit shutout with 12 strikeouts, Jadon Vander Molen went 3 for 4 with a double, two runs and a RBI to help the Knights (4-2, 7-6-1) put the finishing touches on a needed sweep of the Reds (2-4, 4-10).

Declan Van Vuren contributed two RBIs. Ripon Christian opened with a three-run first inning and led 4-0 before Gustine rallied for three in the top of the fifth.

Willem Hoekstra held on for the win after four-plus innings, giving up three runs on four hits and five walks to go with four strikeouts. Nolan Lingley followed with three strong innings in relief, firing four strikeouts while not giving up a hit.

Oliver Perez struck out seven in 5 1/3 innings for Gustine.