MORAGA, Calif. — The Gaels (29-20, 9-4 WCC) took a big first step towards their final push for a WCC Title with a 5-3 victory over LMU (26-24, 7-6 WCC). In a battle of long ball (LMU) vs small ball (SMC), the Gaels erased an early 2-1 deficit to best the Lions for the first time since 2021. With San Diego and Santa Clara getting the late start on Thursday afternoon, the Gaels still firmly control their own destiny, still holding a game lead on Santa Clara even if they defeat San Diego, and a two game lead if they fall, with three games to go.