Embry-Riddle couldn't slow a surging Hope International offense on Thursday night, falling 16–0 at Amerige Park in the opener of the Eagles' California road swing. The Royals used a five-run third inning and an eight-run sixth to pull away, while ERAU's pitching staff battled through a barrage of pressure on the bases.

Hope International entered the matchup at 22–11, and their momentum showed early. After two quiet innings, the Royals broke through with a five-run third, highlighted by a leadoff home run and a two-run double. The inning also featured aggressive baserunning, including multiple stolen bases and a run scoring on a wild pitch.

Embry-Riddle's best scoring opportunities came in the middle innings. Caden Truman delivered a clean single to left in the third, and James Warren added a sharp base hit up the middle in the sixth. Connor Rosinski also reached twice, singling in the fifth and drawing a walk earlier in the game. But the Eagles couldn't string together the timely hits needed to break through against HIU starter Franky Lopez, who struck out nine over six scoreless innings.

On the mound, Noah Tschopp made the start for ERAU, working three innings before handing the ball to the bullpen. Brody Gundert provided a solid stretch in relief, allowing just one run on one hit over two innings while striking out three. The Royals, however, capitalized on nearly every baserunner, using speed and power to extend their lead—including home runs in both the third and sixth innings.

Despite the scoreline, the Eagles continued to compete to the final out. Owen Montgomery reached base in the seventh after being hit by a pitch, later advancing to third on a wild pitch and passed ball. 

Embry-Riddle will look to reset quickly as they continue their California trip. First pitch for game two of the series is scheduled Friday at 1pm.