After starting the season 1-3 with the losses coming by a combined five runs, the Ventura College baseball team has warmed up, winning four of five games, including a significant 6-5 win at powerhouse Palomar Friday.

And this without defined horses at the front and back ends of its pitching staff.

"That's a new experience for us," said Ventura coach Don Adams.

In recent years, Ventura has had quality aces (Jake Renshaw, Justin DeFratus, Zach Thornton, Blair Walters) and closers (Philip Hann, Jeremy Berg, Nolan Rudman, Garrett Rau).

Although sophomore Anthony Martinez (3-0, 1.71 ERA) has won his first three starts, the Pirates' staff still is without define roles.

"There's no experience," said Adams. "But I think we can find the right mix."

With less than a week before the beginning of WSC North play, Santa Paula High product Allen Gwynn looks like the second starter, while sophomore Ryan Hotchkiss and Cal State Los Angeles transfer Erik Hong are competing for the third slot.