Chico’s Nova Shuts Down the Vigilantes, 7-1

The Vigilantes scored a run in the top of the first but managed nothing else and lost to Chico, 7-1, in a Western Baseball League game Tuesday in Chico.

Chico’s Rafael Nova pitched a three-hitter, walking four and striking out four, after falling behind early when Mission Viejo scored in the first on a run-scoring double by Allan Burke.

Although Nova struggled with his control, walking three in the first inning, he worked out of the jam and retired 17 consecutive hitters.

Nova’s record improved to 10-3.

John Homan (3-4) took the loss for the Vigilantes.

Mission Viejo (19-21) will play at Chico (21-19) in the final game of the three-game series today.

Marco Marquez (0-0) will make his first start of the season for the Vigilantes against Chico’s Paul Runyan (4-5).