The Solana Beach Cardinals clinched a playoff spot in the SBL Playoffs for the second consecutive year after defeating the Ventura County Pirates 6-5 on Friday night at LA Valley College.

James Rutledge had a big game for the Cardinals with a home run and three RBI. Anthony Inatsugu added one RBI. Ari Gerber ripped two base hits and scored twice.

For the Pirates, D'Andre Sanchez knocked in two RBI. Kyle Lathrop, Myles Hager and Kobi Allen each contributed one RBI.

Ryan Semon pitched four shutout innings for the Cardinals and struckout four.