Palma-San Benito baseball

 Was it a statement for San Benito or a wake-up call for Palma?
 How about both.
 The Chieftains are no longer undefeated while San Benito will take an 11-game winning streak into today's rematch in Hollister.
 Palma, who came into Thursday's showdown having allowed just six runs in its first 13 games, gave up seven in the second inning alone and 14 for the game.
 The fact that these teams play three times in Gabilan Division play makes today's game even more significant.
 A San Benito wins pads its lead to two. If Palma gains a measure of redemption, the two teams are even with one more showdown looming in three weeks.
 I doubt Thursday's result changes the mindset of either team. But it does put a little more pressure on the Chieftains, who face a San Benito team that is undefeated at home this year.
 In fact, the Balers last home loss came to Palma last spring.
 Last year Palma lost its first meeting to the Balers, then won the next two to win the league title. Of course, San Benito got the last laugh with a win in the Open Division playoffs.
 Sam Stoutenborough is expected to start on the mound for Palma against Davonte Butler.