Gorman product Berger helps Aztecs top Rebels

Following the nation’s top college pitcher is a tough act, but it’s one San Diego State senior right-hander Jon Berger embraces.

One night after Aztecs ace Stephen Strasburg put on an impressive show, Berger took the mound Friday and pitched into the sixth inning in San Diego State’s 8-6 victory over UNLV at Wilson Stadium.

A Bishop Gorman High graduate who pitched for two seasons at the College of Southern Nevada, Berger wanted to perform well in his hometown.

But he also finds motivation in pitching the day after Strasburg, the projected No. 1 pick in the major league draft in June. Strasburg improved to 7-0 in the Aztecs’ 15-4 victory over the Rebels in the series opener.

“When he’s out there throwing well, I want to compete and win, too. We kind of have a little competition on the side,” Berger said. “It means a lot to me to win here.”

Berger allowed five runs in 5 2/3 innings and left with a tight shoulder that he said was nothing serious. He did not record the win, as the 18th-ranked Aztecs (25-11, 8-3 Mountain West Conference) erased a 6-5 deficit by rallying for three runs in the eighth.

Berger retired nine batters in a row before Rance Roundy’s two-out double in the fourth for UNLV (15-18, 4-7).

San Diego State coach Tony Gwynn will start another Las Vegas prep product, right-hander Tyler Lavigne from Centennial High and CSN, in the series finale at 2 p.m. today.

Gwynn said Berger (3-3, 4.07 ERA) and Lavigne (4-0, 2.40) have been “absolutely tremendous” this season while working in Strasburg’s shadow, and each pitcher could benefit from the exposure Strasburg attracts.

“The great thing about it is that because Strasburg gets so much attention, they are being seen,” Gwynn said. “Our guys totally get it and they totally understand it. They know the scouts are not only there to see Strasburg, but they can see other guys too.”

Berger was recruited by UNLV but chose San Diego State, as have several of CSN coach Tim Chambers’ players in recent years.

“Everyone kind of wants to play for their hometown (team),” Berger said, “but I felt like I needed to get away.”

• NOTES — Aztecs junior Josh Chasse, from Las Vegas High, hit a two-run homer in the second inning. … J.J. Sferra went 2-for-3 to extend his hitting streak to 24 games, the third longest in UNLV history.