East County Sports' Game of the Week  Presented By...                 ...Celebrating its First Anniversary! Homer-mania at West Hills Wolf Pack hit four of ballpark record six HRs to cushion their Grossmont Hills advantage By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com SANTEE (5-1-14) — Due to its unique location just east of Mission Trails Regional Park, the wind blowing off the summit where State Route 52 enters the Santee valley makes it almost impossible to hit a home run to left field at West Hills High. Back in the 1990s, the ballpark once went more than three years without a single homer clearing the fence toward the west. But on Wednesday (Apr. 30), with Santa Ana winds blowing in the opposite direction, a record six homers were hit at the facility. Four of the shots belonged to the host Wolf Pack, which grabbed a strangle-hold of the Grossmont Hills League pennant race after outlasting visiting Valhalla, 9-5. "I remember coming here and watching some furious, line shots get hit to left field, but they never went out," said West Hills coach MIKE APPLEBAUM, a former assistant with members of the Valhalla coaching staff. "But with the wind blowing in completely the opposite direction, every ball in the air went out." Going deep, West Hills overcame deficits of 3-0 and 5-4, scoring the final five runs to remain unbeaten in GHL play, extending their lead to 1.5 games over idle Granite Hills and two full games over the Norsemen. The go-ahead runs came off the bat of sophomore KENDALL MARINESI. Following a lead walk and a stolen base by BRANDY McCRYSTAL, Marinesi smacked a 2-run shot to center field for a 6-5 lead. An inning later, following an RBI double by SIERRA SCHLICTING, McCrystal belted the ballclub's fourth homer of the contest. "It seemed like everyone was hitting homers except me," said Wolf Pack catcher CORTNEY HORNE, the team leader in the category (she still collected two more basehits). "I've never seen the wind blow out like it did today." Valhalla took advantage of wind right away when designated player CARLEE WALLACE smacked a 2-run homer in the 1st, also scoring DANIELLE UY (single). Then in the 3rd, singles by BRANDI KOHEL, Wallace and MIRANDA THOMAS (RBI) made it 3-0. West Hills fought back to take the lead. SYDNEY CRAVEN went deep to left-center to lead off the bottom of the 3rd, then the infielder capped a 3-run rally in the 4th with a go-ahead, 2-run double which short-hopped the fence. In between, ALEX GUAY started the 3-run rally in the 3rd woth a one-out, solo shot to left field. Valhalla reclaimed the lead in the 5th when Thomas stroked a 2-run shot to left, also scoring Wallace, who reached on a two-out error.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (5-1-14) — Just three years removed from a CIF Division I championship, it's been a long season for the Grossmont Foothillers. But they finally found something to brighten their campaign.

On Wednesday (Apr. 30), the host Hillers made a 4-run rally in the 3rd inning stand up, downing historic rival Helix, 4-2, to complete the first round of Grossmont Hills League play.

The triumph snapped a 9-game losing streak, the school's longest this century.

Grossmont shortstop Cel Davila (left) goes for the step-and-throw double play against Helix in a 4-2 GHL vcitory. (*Photo by Tony Bordine)

"It's been a while," said veteran coach JERRY LERUD. "Especially after that (20-2) loss to Otay Ranch. But the team kept working hard and deserved this win."

With a postseason berth already unlikely, Lerud directed his attention to the future by replacing senior pitcher CEL DAVILA with her sister, CASSIDY DAVILA. The strategy worked after the freshman allowed just five hits, carrying a shutout into the 6th inning.

The Foothillers registered four consecutive hits to muster three of their runs, then an error allowed a fourth to cross home.

After CARLY PEASON was hit by a pitch with one out, the Grossmont hits wouldn't quit.

DESTINY BACON and CHLOE CAMARERO both singled to left field to load the bases.

Cel Davila singled home Pearson, then MEGAN WALWITZ delivered a 2-run double to center for a 3-0 lead.

Grossmont's Kira Elliott (Photo by Rick Davila)

In addition, Cel Davila batted 3-for-3, while Bacon went 2-for-3 from the leadoff spot.

JOHANNA FRANKLIN knocked in three early runs, helping the Braves to a wire-to-wire victory over the Warriors from Liberty Station.

ECVHS scored three times in the 1st inning, two on a Franklin double. She later singled in a run and scored in the 3rd.

In the 4th, ANNA MARRUFU tripled home BRIANNA ESPINOZA (walk), then she scored on a sharp single by MARIAH GRIPON.

Then in the 5th, Franklin and her sister, DEJSA GOASA, both singled, with consecutive ground balls to the right side by KALANIA LONGONA and Espinoza producing another run.

© East County Sports.com
CHULA VISTA (4-30-14) — The softball gods must be delivering a message to Patrick Henry High first baseman DANIELLE ROMERO.

Following one of her greatest performances after slugging a CIFSDS record-tying three home runs against Morse, nothing seemed to go right against Eastlake in Tuesday's (Apr. 29) non-league game.

Romero committed a 1st-ining error which led to a run, but this was not a typical ballgame. In an outing mnore reminiscent of the game during the 40-foot era before the pitching rubber was pushed back, the unearned run was the lone marker in a 1-0 win for the host Titans.

Romero was center stage in a 7th-inning comeback, but she never got the chance. Pinchitter ERIN SHICK roaped a line drivel. However, the ball landed directly into the glove of the Eastlake first baseman who then tagged the bag for an game-ending double play rather than allowing MADDY BARRAZA (single, to third on an error) to score the equalizer.

The play allowed Eastlake sophomore Samantha Manti (8 K's) to gain the shutout victory, barely out-dueling the Patriots' MADISON "M.J." JAMES, who struck out three Titans in tossing a 5-hitter over her six innings for her own complete game.

The RBI in the 1st was collected by Annemarie Fischer, another sophomore.

© East County Sports.com
SKYLINE HILLS (4-26-14) — For the first (reported) time in Eastern League history, a player hit three home runs in a ballgame.

On Friday (Apr. 24), Patrick Henry High first baseman DANIELLE ROMERO became the 13th player in CIF San Diego Section history to slug three home runs, powering the Patriots past host Morse, 20-1.

After walking in the 1st inning, Romero went deep on all three of her official at-bats before being pulled to allow the reserves to play in the lopsided contest.

The sophomore is the first CIFSDS to slug three homers in a game since SARAH NICKS of Grossmont accomplished the feat against Valhalla last season.

Sophomore first baseman Danielle Romero of Patrick Henry became the 13th player in CIFSDS history to hit three home runs in Friday's 20-1 victory against host Morse. (File photo by Cheryl Cruz)

Meanwhile, three other Patrick Henry players also hit homers, with the team total of six setting a league record and equaling the conference record. The section record is seven, shared by Mountain Empire (in 2006) and Mt. Carmel (2007).

Romero's walk set-up a grand slam by ANYA VANDERSIP for the early lead. Vandersip batted 3-for-4 on the day.

In the 2nd, Romero hit a 2-run homer, then an inning later, hit the second of back-to-back homers with SIERRA ALTMEYER, who went 3-for-4 and scored four times.

Romero's final long-ball was a solo homer in the 4th to cap a 5 RBI performance. MONTANA POTTS also added a 2-run home run.

It should be noted that Patrick Henry utilized an optional rule found in Little League Baseball that a team can not score more than five runs in an inning.

Up, Up and Hath-Away
GRANITE HILLS 9, VALHALLA 6 — Eagles third baseman VICTORIA HATHAWAY equaled the school record with two home runs in a game Friday (Apr. 25), finishing the afternoon with five RBI to lift Granite Hills over archrival Valhalla in Grossmont Hills League action at Leto Field. PHOTOS & MORE PHOTOS

After collecting an RBI on a ground out in the 1st inning, Hathaway hit a 3-run bomb in the 5th inning to cap a huge 6-run rally and turn a 4-2 deficit into an 8-4 advantage. Prior to her blast, two runs scored on an error to knot the ballgame, then HALLA KYLER's single gave Granite Hills the lead.

Granite Hills' Victoria Hathaway (far right) gets welcomed at home plate following home run No. 2. (Photo by Don Wall)

Hathaway, a junior, later added a solo shot in the 7th to provide an extra cushion, which proved important when Valhalla's KATIE SCHMIDT belted a 2-run homer in the home-half of the frame.

The Eagles' victory lifted them into a second-place deadlock with the Norsemen at 3-1, giving West Hills sole possession of the GHL lead. The Wolf Pack will play Valhalla on Wednesday to complete the first round of the league schedule.

In the 1st, a Hathaway ground ball allowed KAILA DeWITT to score, then JESSIE LaPIERRE singled home HALLE KYLER (single) for a quick 2-0.

However, Valhalla quickly tied it then added two more runs in the 4th for a 4-2 lead.

DANIELLE UY stroked a solo homer to halve the deficit, then EMILY HOWARD later singled home CARLEE WALLACE (single, to 2nd on an error).

In the 4th, BRANDI KOHEL walked, then Uy and Wallace (two RBI) drilled consecutive doubles to move in front.

GROSSMONT VALLEY LEAGUE Bronco-bustin' Vaqueros © East County Sports.com LAKESIDE (4-26-14) — El Capitan High noticed the trend in recent high-scoring games, so the Vaqueros added to their own record. On Friday, (Apr. 25), the team busted wide open its own school and Grossmont Conference mark for runs score, taking down vsiting Monte Vista, 34-4, in a Grossmont Valley League contest. Details to come after the Lakeside Rodeo.

EASTERN LEAGUE
Pitching carousel goes to Serra

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
TIERRASANTA (4-26-14) — How quickly things can change in the pitching circle, especially when comparing Eastern League rivals Scripps Ranch and Serra high schools.

Scripps Ranch hoped to start MAKAYLA MARTIN, the former Serra hurler as a freshman, but she injured an arm.

However, Martin (believed to be out for the season) came back and pitched in relief on Wednesday, and was seen warming up prior to Friday's showdown for third place against the Conquistadors. But obviously throwing with less than full velocity, ALISON PETTY instead gained the start.

For the home side, the Q's remain bitter about the transfer by Martin following the 2012 season, then lost current starting pitcher DARBY TIBBETTS to a broken bone n her pitching hand.

Fortunately for the Lady Q-Dawgs, Tibbetts returned just in time and survived an unearned run in the 7th inning to down the defending league champion Falcons, 3-2, in Friday's (Apr. 25) ballgame at Serra.

"It was good to know that our coach had faith in us, so everyone contributed," said Tibbetts, who struck out four without issuing a walk. "We could've worried about Makayla, but instead we took a different view and had everyone work hard and everything came together."

There were some Scripps Ranch worries when Petty allowed three early runs -- was she properly warmed up? -- but she settled in and closed with 4 1/3 innings of shutout ball. However, the Falcons could only get to Tibbetts once with an early run.

Falcons leadoff batter BRYANNA DATKO again proved to be a sparkplug as the lead batter, grounding a hard single to left field for a basehit. It was the first of her three basehits, scoring both Scripps Ranch runs.

LAUREN LIPE sacrificed Datko to second base with a bunt, then SUSANNE MORRIS singled her to third base. Datko finally scored on a double to right field by MICHAELA PRINCE, who went 2-for-4.

However, the Conquistadors answered with two runs to grab the lead for keeps.

BROOKE RUSSELL reached on a one-out error, scoring on a triple to deep left by AMBER WOZNIAK to tie the score. ASHLEY BLAKELY followed with a ground ball to the right side.

In the 2nd, Serra No. 8 batter LILY CANFIELD fouled off several pitches before collecting her first varsity homer on a drive to right field.

"I just kept waiting on the ball, then was finally able to crank one," said Canfield, a junior catcher. "The team has been having trouble facing slow pitching, so it was actually nice to see someone who was fast."

Scripps Ranch had runners on base in every inning except the 5th.

In the 7th, Datko blasted a lead double, reaching third on a throwing error. She quickly scored on an RBI grounder by Lipe, which was booted. However, Tibbetts escaped with a lazy fly ball out, a fielder's choice grounder, then a called strike three to end it.

In the series, Scripps Ranch had won 15 of the last 16 ballgames between the schools, dating back to 2006 (as far back as East County Sports records go for the Eastern League).

Note: Because of approaching rain, Serra's non-league home game against Imperial on Saturday has been postponed.

MIRA MESA 27, CHRISTIAN 2 — Eight runs in both the 3rd and 4th inning produced a 19-0 lead for the visiting Marauders in an easy decision over the host Patriots at Dawson Field.

JORDAN NOWAKOWSKI went a perfect 5-for-5 at the plate to equal a school record, collecting six RBI and scoring four times. Included were three doubles by the catcher, becoming the first City Conference player (as listed in the CIFSDS Record Book) to achieve the feat.

Meanwhile, ALICIA GARCIA registered three hits (including a triple) and four RBI, one seven Marauders to record multiple RBI.

Trailing 25-0, Christian avoided the shutout by scoring twice in the 4th inning after Mira Mesa starting pitcher JIANNA MIQUE set down the first nine Christian batters.

ALYSSA HARRIS accepted a lead walk, then DIANE SUDA sent a drive which hit about two-third up the left-center field fence, settling for a double instead of a home run.

ANNA SHERBURNE followed with a sacrifice fly, then ANNIE ATTEBURY sent a hard grounder through the left side for another run.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-25-14) — Monte Vista High stayed on course to reach the final of its own inaugural Spring Madness tournament by cycling past El Cajon Valley , 20-0, in the first of two pool play games Thursday (Apr. 24) at the Braves field.

Cycling? Indeed, after Monarchs left fielder MARIAH WHITEHEAD hit for the cycle in a 6 RBI performance.

Whitehead, a sophomore, collected two of her hits in the 3rd inning when Monte Vista batted around, registering seven total bases in the inning with a triple and a 3-run homer.

Meanwhile, shortstop SIERRA GOLDHAGEN collected five RBI, three coming on her first career home run. The junior co-captain sent a shot over the barrier in center field in the 2nd.

Monte Vista remains on target to meet El Centro-Central in the championship round. The Spartans returned to town to defeat the Braves, 20-1, in the day's second contest.

For ECVHS, ANNA MARRUFU walked and eventually scored the lone Braves run on a basehit by BRIANNA ESPINOZA.

Pool play concludes on Monday. The final round is slated for Saturday, (May 3) at Monte Vista.

East County Sports' Game of the Week  Presented By...                 ...Celebrating its First Anniversary! El Capitan grabs GVL lead after umnpires change call By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com SANTEE (4-24-14) — A call overturned on appeal allowed the go-ahead run to score in the 7th inning Wednesday (Apr. 23), giving El Capitan High undisputed possession of the Grossmont Valley League lead after nipping host Santana, 2-1. With a pair of Vaqueros baserunners in scoring position, Sultans shortstop SYDNEY VATES made a heads-up play in an attempt to register an out to end the inning. On a two-out ground ball to the left-side hole by El Cap's GRACE BURKETT, JESSICA BAUER easily sprinted home to snap a 1-1 deadlock. Vates, however, ranged deep to her right to field the ball, throwing to third base in order to nail the hard-charging RACHEL ACHENBACH to register the final out. "My third base coach almost came unglued," said El Capitan coach JOE COTA. "He said the tag was high up by Rachel's neck and it wasn't a force play, so she was safe." The umpires discussed the situation and agreed; Achenbach was safe. Bauer scored, and Burkett collected what proved to be the game-winning RBI. Santana, which has captured seven consecutive league titles (including all four GVL crowns since realignment), has one last opportunity by gaining a two-out walk to bring the potential game-winning run to the plate. However, El Capitan pitcher KATIE CARMICHAEL finished the Sultans off with a strikeout. The Vaqueros now hold a 1.5 game lead over three teams -- Santana, Monte Vista and Mount Miguel -- in the GVL standings. "Since coming back from her injury, that was Katie's best game of the season," added Cota. "She actually pitched well at Imperial, but the defense let her down, but they were strong today." The lone Sultans run came unearned in the 6th when Vates reached base on a dropped third strike, then came around on two additional errors to ruin Carmichael 's shutout bid. El Capitan opened the scoring in the 3rd. KACI HOSTETLER singled to center field, Achenbach reached on an error, but Burkett's ground ball saw Cates fire home to nail Hostetler at the plate. However, third baseman CIERRA HAUBER answered with a basehit to score Achenbach. In other GVL action, Mount Miguel defeated host El Cajon Valley in five innings, 20-1. MVHS Spring Madness MONTE VISTA 7, TRI-CITY CHRISTIAN 5 — The visiting Eagles tallied four runs in the 7th before the Monarchs shut the door in a triumph in their own tournament during Wednesday's (Apr. 23) pool play contest. Monte Vista sophomore pitcher EMILY BODTKE tossed shutout ball over the first 5 2/3 innings, but survived down the stretch in her complete-game effort. The Monarchs scored twice over the team's first three trips to the plate to mount a 6-0 cushion, capped by a 2-run triple by YELEECIA BECERRA in the 3rd. Freshman speedster JAYDE GOLDHAGEN posted a pair of bunt singles and stole two bases, while older sister SIERRA GOLDHAGEN, a junior co-captain, posted a double and scored a run.

© East County Sports.comm
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (4-24-14) — The Valhalla Norsemen rode the arm of pitcher MIRANDA THOMAS, who overcame some early wildness to stop host Steele Canyon, 7-3, in Wednesday's (Apr. 23) Grossmont Hills League contest.

It was the sixth straight victory for the Norsemen, their longest winning streak since closing the 2013 regular season with seven consecutive triumphs.

Thomas escaped a pair of jams in the first two innings, coming out even at 2-all. The Norsemen then took a 3-2 lead in the 4th, then added three more runs in the 6th to pull away, two coming on a CARLEE WALLACE homer. All seven runs came on 2-out hits.

DANIELLE UY drove in a pair of runs, extending her club lead to 29 this season. The junior went 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored, raising her average to .468.

Meanwhile, ANNAMARIE IULIANO posted three hits, including a double and an RBI triple to score ABIGAIL METSCH, to improve her season average to .385. She finished with two runs and knocked in a pair of runs.

For Steele Canyon, BRITTANY FITCH batted 2-for-3 plus a walk, scoring twice on hits by KENDRA BUCKLEY (double) and KEARA McCARTHY.

Valhalla remains on a collision course with West Hills to break a tie between the schools at the top of the GHL standings next Wednesday.

You Make The Call

In a contest from Mar. 28, El Capitan left fielder Kaci Hostetler eyes a deep drive by a batter from Grossmont, but did she make the catch or was it a home run?... YOU MAKE THE CALL! CLICK PHOTO for the answer. (Photos provided by EC parent)

WEST HILLS 13, GROSSMONT 3 (5 inn.) — Wolf Pack freshman pitcher RYLEIGH DOBYNS allowed just one earned run in shutting down the visiting Foothillers in Wednesday's (Apr. 23) Grossmont Hills League game. Dobyns finished with a 3-hitter.

The Pack posted six runs in the 1st, then invoked the run rule with five additional marks in the 5th.

Several West Hills freshman in a revamped outfield contributed heavily to the offensive attack.

Left fielder PAIGE BOWLER, in her first action in several weeks following a hand injury, batted 2-for-3 with a run and an RBI. Meanwhile, right fielder MELISSA CASTILLO went 3-for-3 with a triple, a run and a stolen base.

In addition, senior CORTNEY HORNE belted a pair of doubles in a 4-for-4 outing. One of her doubles knocked in a pair of runs.

For Grossmont, sophomore MEGAN MALWITZ slugged a solo homer in the 4th. The other runs for the Hillers came unearned in the 5th.
 

The shortstop from Granite Hills gains the force out at second base, then fires to first base in an attempt to turn the double play against Helix. (Photos by Don Wall) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

And did they.

By the time things subsided, Granite Hills batted through the batting order twice by scoring 14 times, making the reminder of this Grossmont Hills League contest moot.

The explosion included a 3-run homer by right fielder BROOKLYN SCHWEN in her second at-bat of the inning. The senior later added a 2-run double in the 3rd, finishing the ballgame with five RBI.

"Everything we hit seemed to drop in for a hit," noted Eagles coach ERIN COYNE, a former standout out of Helix "back in the day."

Added Scotties coach EMILY KOWALSKI, "We changed pitchers, we didn't make any mistakes except for one error, but everything they hit seemed to find a hole."

CASSIDY SHEW added a pair of doubles, one which drove in a run, while VICTORIA HATHAWAY went 3-for-3, good for a pair of RBI.

In addition, HALLE KYLER batted 2-for-4 and drove in two, while KAILA DeWTT was 2-for-2 wth an RBI.

For Helix (7-9-1), SIERRA SALAZAR went 2-3 with a pair of doubles.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (4-23-14) — For six innings, the pitching staff of Monte Vista High held a vastly improved ballclub from El Centro-Central in check, keeping Tuesday's (Apr. 21) MVHS' Spring Madness tournament contest close.

"It took us awhile, but we finally started to wait on the ball," said Central freshman Ahtyanna Glass, who slugged an RBI double off the left-field fence to finish a 3-for-4 outing at the plate. "And when we wait, the ball travels farther."

Moments later, Glass scored when Kassie Orozco slugged a 2-run homer. The ball hit the rail on top of the fence and bounced over to further frustrate Monte Vista as the ballgame slipped away.

"Things like that have been happening to us all season," added Glass. "It's one reason we're doing so well in (the Imperial Valley) league."

The inning started on a leadoff double to right field by Jere Silva, then left-hander Ashley Lillegard hooked a ball over the Monte Vista first baseman into the right-field corner for an RBI triple.

The Monarchs (6-5) lone run came in the 3rd to tie the contest.

CYANNA MOODY led off with a single, advancing to third on consecutive walks to GEENA HENDERSON and ASHLEY MORAN. A passed ball then allowed Moody to score, ruining the shutout bid by Spartans pitcher Jalyn McClain.

In Game One of the tournament, Central romped past The Rock Academy of Liberty Station, 20-2.

RAMONA 13, STEELE CANYON 2 — Following a pair of 1-run setbacks to top-ranked Westview and No. 8 Mission Hills, the Bulldogs (10-8) ran their winning streak to three after handling the visiting Cougars easily in Tuesday's (Apr. 22) non-league affair.

Steele Canyon (5-11) only reached the scoreboard in the 2nd inning.

KENDRA BUCKLEY and MAKAYLA McCARTHY opened the inning with singles, then a double steal placed both runners into scoring position. A passed ball allowed Buckley to score, then a ground ball by KORI TAPIA resulted in an RBI to bring home "M'Mac."

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (4-22-14) — Cal State Stanislaus bound pitcher MARISSA HAMPTON tossed her first varsity no-hitter Monday (Apr. 21), leading Helix High past visiting El Cajon Valley, 16-0 in five innings, in a non-league contest.

Hampton struck out eight Braves batters, then aided the offense with an RBI double in the 2nd inning, part of her 3-for-4 batting performance.

"I've thrown a no-hitter before, but never in high school," said Hampton . "I just kept hitting the outside corner, but when I heard her (the ECVHS coach) call 'outside,' then I adjusted and went inside."

Hampton faced just one batter above the minimum, as the leadoff batter in the 4th for El Cajon Valley reached on an error.

For Helix, CLARRISA SMITH went 4-for-5 with four RBI, as the Highlanders scored seven times in the 1st to open the romp.

Helix pitcher Marissa Hampton fired a no-hitter against El Cajon Valley. (Photo by Tony Bordine)

Valhalla's Carlee Wallace (left); Miranda Thomas (Photos by Erica Ingrassia)

VALHALLA 11, MADISON 4 – The Norsemen continue to excel by rotating their pitchers. On Monday (Apr. 21), it was MIRANDA THOMAS' turn, striking out four and yielding just two earned runs in a non-league triumph over the Warhawks at Leto Field.

The offense was fueled by five RBI by senior CARLEE WALLACE, who was forced to switch positions yet filled in admirably. Swinging the acacia, the shortstop batted 2-for-2, both good for a pair of runs.

Wallace started early with a 2-run double in the 1st, but did even better on her next plate appearance, roping a 2-run homer to center field in the 2nd.

With Madison holding "Anticipation" of another major hit by Wallace, the Warhawks later walked her with the bases loaded to account for "Simon's" fifth RBI in her top performance of the season.

Wallace also scored three times, directly accounting for seven of Valhalla 's 11 runs.

For Madison, COurtney Black slubbed a 2-run homer to center in the 7th.

SCRIPPS RANCH 3, OTAY RANCH 1 – Leadoff batter BRYANNA DATKO continued to set the table for the Falcons. The senior posted two more basehits then scored each time in Monday's (Apr. 21) wire-to-wire victory over the host Mustangs.

Datko opened the contest with a single in the 1st, later scoring on a booming double to right field by MICHAELA PRINCE. Datko did the same in the 7th with a lead basehit, moving to second base on a passed ball, to third on a Prince sacrifice bunt, later scoring on a double to left-center by SUSANNE MORRIS

In between, the Falcons (8-11-1) scored in the 4th when ALISON PETTY singled, then circled the diamond on a passed ball, a Prince sacrifice bunt, and a basehit to center by CASSIDY DAVIS.

Meanwhile, Petty collected the pitching victory in tossing a 6-hitter, striking out four Mustangs. The lone run by Otay Ranch (14-8) came on an RBI single by freshman Hazell Diaz.

Patrick Henrysenior pitcher Erin Shick. (Photo by Cheryl Cruz)

CRISTIONA "C.C." CACCAMISE batted 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles, three RBI and two runs scored, while DANI ROMERO belted a go-ahead, 2-run double in the bottom of the 4th, when the Pats (17-5) scored three times to move in front for keeps at 7-5.

The decisive inning saw RYLIE RUCKLE opened with a line single, eventually tying the ballgame on a grounder to the right side by HANNAH McEWEN. SIERRA ALTMEYER followed with a sharp basehit, with Romero following with her shot to the gap to secure the lead.

An inning later with Ruckle (single) and MADDY BARRAZA (walk) on base, Caccamise doubled home one run. Later, Altmeyer walked with the bases loaded for an RBI, then Romero drove in her third run of the contest with a basehit.

GRANITE HILLS at LA JOLLA COUNTRY DAY – This non-league game was cancelled because the host Torreys were short-handed due to injuries and players on vacation.

CHRISTIAN at MORSE – The date of this Eastern League ballgame was altered for a second time, now slated for May 12 at Skyline Hills.

Valhalla pitcher Ashley Madera fired a 3-hitter to stop the visiting University City Centurions. (Photo by Erica Ingrassia)

By Nick Pellegrino
East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (4-19-14) — University City High may be depleted in the pitching ranks, but the ballclub continues to pound the ball.. Entering Friday's (Apr. 18) action, the Centurions had amassed 99 runs in their first 13 games this season (7.6 avg.).

The numbers are impressive, yet meant little to Valhalla senior ASHLEY MADARA, who limited UC to just three basehits in backing the Norsemen to an easy 10-1 non-league triumph.

"I was hitting my spots and ou team played with a lot of energy," noted Madara, who is headed for Western New Mexico University in the fall. "It was a lot different than when we played them last year."

In 2013, University City took a 7-0 decision. However, with six runs in the 2nd inning, Valhalla was able to turn the tables to register its fourth consecutive victory.

"I asked the girls to stick it out during the rough games," noted Norsemen coach Mark Obney of a tough, early-season schedule. "Now we're gaining the rewards and coming together at the right time of the season."

Madara collected a steady stream of groundball outs to go along with her three strikeouts.

Meanwhile, the offense found several multi-hit performers.

Designated player MIRANDA THOMAS was the most production, driving in three runs. Included was a 2-run single in the 5th in the senior's 2-for-4 outing.

Second basema ANNAMARIE IULIANO and center fielder DANILLE UY each added three hits, while first baseman ABIGAIL METSCH went 2-for-4.

Valhalla (10-7) faced another import test which will affect the CIF Division II playoffs, hosting Madison at 4 p.m. Monday before the Grossmont Hills co-leaders resume league play.

Eastern League
PATRICK HENRY 14, SERRA 0 (5 inn.) — Backed by four home runs, including a pair by catcher CRISTIONA "C.C." CACCAMISE, Patriots pitcher MADISON "M.J." JAMES tossed a complete-game shutout to conquer the visiting Conquistadors.

The freshman battery should continue to create problem for the next three seasons.

For Caccamise, the blasts were her first two varsity homers, including one moon shot to left field. She finished with five RBI and three runs scored in her top performance of the season.

Meanwhile, James also homered as part of a 4-for-4 batting performance. She also doubled and registered three RBI.

Adding to the home run parade was shortstop ANYA VANDERSIP. The sophomore batted 2-for-3, while shortstop SIERRA ALTMEYER went 4-for-4 with a triple. coming in the 4th inning, when the Patriots scored 10 times to invoke the mun rule.

For Serra, ASHLEY BLAKELY hit a double among the team's three hits.

MIRA MESA 6, SCRIPPS RANCH 2 — The visiting Marauders broke open this Eastern League ballgame with four runs in the 6th inning, the difference in a 6-2 victory over their neighbors to the east.

TAYLOR TOMPKINS and KENDRA HALL each drove in two runs, helping Mira Mesa win for the eight time in nine outings (the lone loss was to No. 1 Westview). The Marauders, however, continue to remain unranked (including among the honorable mention) by The San Diego Union Tribune in its section rankings.

Scripps Ranch averted the shutout big by Mira Mesa's ALICIA GARCIA in the 7th.

Following a leadoff single by freshman MacKENZIE KELLY, shortstop BRYANNA DATKO slammed a 2-run homer to left field. For Datko, it was the senior's first career home run.

Datko and MICHAELA PRINCE each collected two of the Falcons' four hits. Prince also stole a base.

CHRISTIAN at MORSE — The Patriots (and the media) arrived at Morse's Skyline Hills campus, but no Tigers could not be found. Officials in the school's administrative offices noted they had the contest slated for Monday -- did the previous Christian coaching staff re-schedule because of Good Friday, but not tell anyone?

Meanwhile, Morse's school webpage lists the ballgame as Monday, but at Christian. MaxPreps doesn''t even list the Tigers playing Christian, a longtime league opponent. Stay tuned.

Mira Mesa's Quirisa Mauga (left) scores the tie-breaking run in the 5th inning, helping the Marauders secure first place in the Eastern League after nipping Patrick Henry, 4-3. Waiting for the ball in vain is Patriots freshman catcher Cristiona Caccamise (11). (Photo by George Garcia)

East County Sports' Game of the Week  Presented By...                 ...Celebrating its First Anniversary! Marauders overcome glitches, grab first placs in Eastern League By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com MIRA MESA (4-17-14) — Every time Mira Mesa High catcher KORDYN NOWAKOWSKI turned, something absurd seemed to occur. Despite the glitches, the Marauders rallied from a 3-0 deficit to assume first place in the Eastern League after racing past 6th-ranked Patrick Henry, 4-3. A bases-loaded, infield single by TAYLOR TOMPKINS allowed QUIRISA MAUGA to score for a "second time" in the 5th inning for the go-ahead run. Jordyn Nowakowski   Nowakowski, the Mira Mesa catcher, had a front row seat on the first glitch by the Marauders. In the 1st, Patrick Henry batter SIERRA ALTMEYER popped out to shortstop, until the umpire raised his hands. "The umpire called our pitcher for an illegal pitch," said Nowakowski. "She didn't have her hands in her glove to start the pitch and they called it." Two pitches later, Altmeyer sent a rocket over the left-field fence for a 2-run homer just three batters into the battle of league co-favorites. Mauga slugged her own 2-run homer in the 3rd, then stood at third base in the 5th when a ground ball was directed toward shortstop. "I thought I stopped, then went around the shortstop," said Nowakowski, the runner heading from second base to third. Instead, obstruction was called. Nowkowski was out and all other runners were sent back onto the bases. However. Tompkins sent a 4-hopper up the middle which was fielded by Altmeyer, but she had no play at the plate as Mira Mesa assumed its first lead of the ballgame. "I just tried to erase my mind and hit the ball," noted Tompkins, who later ended the game with her throwing arm. Patrick Henry placed the potential tying run on base when CRISTIONA "C.C." CACCAMISE walked, then was bunted into scoring position by HANNAH McEWEN. Altmeyer followed with a sharp grounder to Mauga at shortstop, who checked the runner and fired to Tompkins at first. But on the throw, the Patriots runner headed for third base. "I knew TEIYA (MAUGA, the third baseman) would be there, so I just fired the ball," said Tompkins. "And she was and made the tag for the (victory clinching) double play." Quirisa Mauga finished with a 3-for-4 outing at the plate, while ALICIA GARCIA went 2-for-3, then gained the pitching victory by closing with 5 2/3 inning of shutout ball. With at Patriots up 2-0, they expanded their lead in the 2nd when No.9 batter CASSIE VAN TIL rocketed a triple over the center fielder's head in the 2nd. But Mira Mesa answered in the inning's home half when Garcia also tripled, coming home on a passed ball. The ballclubs meet again on Fri., May 2, at Patrick Henry to decide the league titlist. Mira Mesa, winners in 8 of 9, remain ignored by the county's major newspaper's rankings.

Grossmont High senior pitcher Cel Davila signed her National Letter of Intent with the new NCAA Division II program at the University of Montevallo in Alabama. (Family courtesy photo) CLICK PHOTO FOR MORE

Mira Mesa senior shortstop Quirisa Mauga inks her NLI with Mercer University in a postgame ceremony after nipping Patrick Henry, 4-3. (Photo by George Garcia)

© East County Sports.com
TIERRASANTA (4-17-14) — Serra High gained its initial Eastern League victory of the season Wednesday (Apr. 16), posting 11 unanswered runs to run-rule visiting Morse, 11-1.

Conquistadors first baseman ASHLEY BLAKELY drove in three runs, while shortstop AMBER WOZNIAK knocked in two more, including home runs by each, as the Q's scored six times in the 2nd inning to mount an 8-1 cushion.

Morse posted an unearned run on its first trip to the plate, but Serra Immediately took the lead on run-scoring singles by Blakeley and CAITLIN LAWLER.

An inning later, Wozniak singled home BROOKE RUSSELL and KYLIE BARTOLOME for a 4-1 cushion. Then Wozniak scored on a Blakely double off the center field fence.

The homers came back-to-back in the 3rd, when Wozniak went off the porch in center. The very next pitch was deposited over the right-field fence by Blakeley, who went 3-for-3 with three runs scored.

Meanwhile, MEGAN POOLE and Bartolome combined to pitch a 3-hitter.

SCRIPPS RANCH 14, CHRISTIAN 0 (5 inn.) – ALISON PETTY and CASSIDY DAVIS allowed just one basehit, pitching the Falcons past the visiting Patriots in Wednesday's (Apr. 16) Eastern League contest.

BRYANNA DATKO fueled the offense by going 4-for-5, including her first home run of the season. The solo shot went to left-center field in the 2nd inning.

Meanwhile, freshman third baeman MacKENZIE KELLY added three basehits, including a double, while MICHAELA PRINCE also slugged a 2-base hit.

DIANA SUDA collected the lone hit for the Patriots.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
IMPERIAL (4-16-14) — Imperial High is closely matching the footsteps taken by El Capitan two years ago, when the Vaqueros captured the CIF Division II title.

"We've won league the last two years, but we basically choked in the playoffs," said Tigers left fielder Daniela Garzon. "But this is the closest team I've ever been on, so those games which we once lost we're now winning."

Including Tuesday's (Apr. 15) non-league game in southeastern California , Garzon stroked an RBI single in the bottom of the 7th inning, with an accompanying error allowing the winning run to score, lifting the Tigers to a dramatic 5-4 conquest of the Vaqueros.

"This game was just like the ones we lost in the playoffs," added Garzon, a junior. "But the atmosphere on this team is so much different."

El Capitan was on the verge of escaping the Imperial Valley with a victory when KACI HOSTETLER snapped a 3-3 tie by slugging the first pitch of the 6th inning over the 6-foot fence in center field.

Oddly, it was the only run of the contest since the sun set just after 7 p.m.

Vaqueros pitcher KATIE CARMICHAEL was rolling along, registering four strikeouts in the 5th and 6th innings, half of the eight the senior registered in the ballgame.

But in the 7th, the roof fell in.

Imperial catcher Andrea Sotelo opened with a hard grounder to the hole, leaving the El Cap shortstop without a play on an infield single. Karissa Pena followed with a double.

A safety squeeze failed to bring home the tying run, but Garzon followed with a low liner which fell in the outfield for an RBI basehit. But when the ball skipped past the defender, third base coach Andra Horton (the former All-East County standout at Helix High in 1997), sent Pena home for the winning run.

Imperial (14-3) opened the scoring when Maritza Rojas accepted a bases-loaded walk in the 1st.

El Capitan (4-9) answered with three unearned runs in the 2nd. Catcher KAYLA KRUEL stroked a lead single, moved to second on a Hostetler sacrifice, then MARISSA CUEVAS hit into a fielder's choice, but an error allowed both runners to move into scoring position.

Moving to the top of the batting order, first baseman GRACE BYRKETT doubled to deep left to give the Vaqueros a 2-1 lead. Burkett then scored on a line single by ERIN HUMPHREY.

LA JOLLA COUNTRY DAY 7, CHRISTIAN 3 — Freshman Samantha Moorthart batted 2-for-3, featuring a 2-run double, allowing the host Torreys to rally past the Patriots in Tuesday's (Apr. 15) non-league ballgame.

Christian claimed an early 1-0 lead in the 3rd, but LJCD answered with three runs in the 3rd and 5th innings in snapping a 4-game losing skid.

For the Patriots, ALYSSA HARRIS collected a pair of RBI, while DIANA SUDA posted two of Christian's four basehits.

Granite Hills third baseman Victoria Hathaway registered three RBI against Patrick Henry. (Photo by Don Wall)

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SAN CARLOS (4-15-14) — How much damage was Patrick Henry High going to allow Granite Hills slugger VICTORIA HATHAWAY to commit.

In a perilous situation, the Patriots allowed a 2-out, 7th-inning rally, bringing Hathaway to the plate as the potential tying run with the bases loaded. The junior had already ripped a low liner off the leg of the Patriots pitcher for another run, then homered on her next trip to the plate.

"We were going to intentionally walk her," said catcher CRISTIONA "C.C." CACCAMISE about the discussion in the circle when the coach came calling. "Then we were going to go after the next batter."

The walk wasn't that easy as the first pitch was a called strike. But after Hathaway was issued her free pass (good for her third RBI on the day), Patriots pitcher MADISON JAMES coaxed a comebacker to the circle to give her the victory -- and a bruised shin -- in Monday's (Apr. 15) 6-3 decision over the visiting Eagles.

"We have confidence when M.J. is pitching," added Caccamise, a freshman. "So when she got hit, we were worried."

Top: Patrick Henry second baseman Sierra Altmeyer (44) turns a double play. Bottom: Danielle Romero gets tagged out at second base. (Photo by Don Wall) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Hathaway tattooed the freshman pitcher in the leg, allowing KAILA DeWITT to race home to open the scoring in the 3rd inning. However, the Patriots immediately moved even on a sacrifice fly from MADDY BARRAZA, allowing SIERRA ALTMEYER (double) to tag up and score from third base,

An inning later, Patrick Henry opened up a big lead with four unearned runs in the 4th after the first three batters all reached on errors. The big hit included a 2-run single by DANIELLE ROMERO, while a grounder to the right side by ANYA VANDERSIP capped the outburst.

In the 5th, the Patriots turned a baseball-style double play. Vandersip, the shortstop, tossed the ball to Altmeyer at second, who made the pivot and fired to Romero at first base.

The sides traded runs in the 6th. Hathaway took an outside strike over the right-center field fence to make it 5-2. However, older sister SYDNEY JAMES countered with a run-scoring single to bring in Vandersip.

Madison James retired the first two batters in the 7th, but an error, single and walk loaded the bases for Hathaway before she escaped.

The Patriots (15-4) next play at Mira Mesa on Wednesday in a battle of Eastern League co-leaders. Granite Hills (6-11) return to action next Monday at La Jolla Country Day.

© East County Sports.com
CYPRESS CANYON (4-13-14) — Mt. Carmel High proved to be party poopers by scoring three unearned runs Saturday (Apr. 12), just enough to defeat host Scripps Ranch, 3-2, in the Falcons' annual barbeque-fundraiser game held at Cypress Canyon Park.

The Sundevils gained two of the freebies in the 5h inning -- with Marisa Moore and courtesy runner Alexis Cole scoring -- to take a 3-0 lead.

But the win did not come without a fight from Scripps Ranch, which nearly pulled it out in the bottom of the 7th.

SUSANNE MORRIS and EMMA RUCKER both reached base on Mt. Carmel errors, with Morris scoring on a double by MICHAELA PRINCE.

An ALLISON PETTY ground ball scored a second run, but the Sundevils escaped with two additional ground balls to strand the potential tying runner at third base.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
MIRA MESA (4-12-14) — The new-look Mira Mesa Marauders may be the second-hottest team in the San Diego Section, behind only top-rated Westview.

Junior pitcher ALICIA GARCIA fired a 2-hitter at the Conquistadors, then combined with freshman third baseman TEIYA MAUGA for consecutive home runs to mount an early 5-0 cushion.

In her last full high school season, Garcia was considered a rising star as a freshman. With her return to the roster, along with two other starters, Mira Mesa is set to battle Patrick Henry for supremacy of the Eastern League.

"We shouldn't be surprising that many people because we already beat (then 3rd-ranked) Bonita Vista," said Garcia. "We're still trying to be consistent, but when we start to hit, everyone starts to hit."

Mauga is a good example. The youngest of several standout sisters, she hopes to surpass the CIF section mark for career homers set by her older sister, KATIYANA, who now plays for the University of Arizona .

"My goal is to get more than 41 to take Kati's home run record," said the freshman, who is already taller than by an inch although four years younger.

The homer came on consecutive line drives to left field in the 3rd for a 5-0 lead.

Forced to utilize a junior varsity pitcher due to injuries, the Conquistadors are attempting to stay within range in their preparations for the playoffs.

"Against a good team like Mira Mesa, you just want to stay close and avoid the big inning," said Q's coach MARK BICKERSTAFF. "But Mira Mesa found the narrowest of openings, took advantage and went on a roll."

The break was a foul pop down the right-field line, which barely eluded the glove of the Serra first baseman (it wouldn't have been an extremely difficult, backhand catch). On the very next pitch, Garcia lined a shot over the third baseman for a basehit.

"She (the pitcher) caught a little too much of the plate," added Bicketstaff. "That's why Mira Mesa has become so good after they got their three girls back. Once they got a hit, everyone started hitting."

The hit parade continued with four straight singles, an error, then a 2-run basehit by NADEAH JIMENEZ to invoke the run rule.

Garcia carried a one-hitter into the 5th, when Serra garnered its other hit.

Catcher LILY CANFIELD accepted a two-out walk. Courtesy runner STEPHANIE MACE moved to second on a passed ball, then scored on a line single to left-center field by BRITTANY WALK for the RBI.

Mira Mesa, which isn't even listed among the honorable mention in the poll by the county's largest newspaper, has won six of seven. The lone loss was to No. 1 Westview in the final of the Falcon Fiesta.

The Marauders also received a pair of hits from Jimenez and TAYLOR TOMPKINS.

SCRIPPS RANCH 8, MORSE 1 — Falcons sophomore ALISON PETTY, now the main arm on the roster after MAKAYLA MARTIN was shut down for the season, gained the pitching victory to defeat Morse in the teams' Eastern League opener.

Petty also batted 2-for-4 with a run and three RBI, coming on a 3-run homer in the 1st to help end the 7-game losing skid by Scripps Ranch (6-9-1 overall).

BRYANNA DATKO started the rally with a walk, moving to second base on a LAUREN LIPE bunt. Senior shortstop SUSANNE MORRIS followed with a sharp, run-scoring single.

Later, MICHAELA PRINCE walked, then Petty went deep with an outside pitch, sending the ball over the right-center field fence.

Freshman first baseman CASSIDY DAVIS batted 2-for-4 and Morris went 2-for-5, as eight of the nine starters from Scripps Ranch collected basehits. The exception was Lipe, who walked twice along with her key sacrifice in the 1st.

PATRICK HENRY 13, CHRISTIAN 0 (5 inn.) — The Patrick Henry Patriots posted nine runs in the 1st inning to skate to an Eastern League opening victory.

For the Christian Patriots, center fielder ALYSSA HARRIS batted 3-for-3 -- all singles.

© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (4-11-14) — In a battle of league leaders, Valhalla capitalized on four runs in the 3rd inning, sending the current Grossmont Hills League front runners past host El Capitan, 5-3, in Thursday's (Apr. 10) Grossmont Conference Tournament make-up game.

Valhalla pitcher Miranda Thomas (Photo by Erica Ingrassia)

Immediately after El Capitan tied the game at 1-all, they walked a pair of Norsemen batters. DANIELE UY and MIRANDA THOMAS followed with RBI singles, then Federico followed with a double to make it 5-1. Uy also gained an RBI in the 1st.

The Vaqueros crawled back with single runs in the 5th and 7th frames, but Thomas, the Norsemen pitcher was able to strikeout the final batter, who represented the game-tying run.

KAYLA KRUEL belted a two-out double, scoring COURTNEY WILLIAMS (lead single, stolen base). Then KATIE CARMICHAEL registered an RBI single to bring in ERIN HUMPHRIES (two-out double).

Humphries went 2-for-3 and scored twice, while Kruel recorded a pair of hits.

EASTLAKE 15, CHRISTIAN 0 (5 inn.) — Titans senior Kate Jackson tossed a complete game in blanking the road-weary Patriots in Thursday's (Apr. 10) non-league game.

MONTE VISTA 22, THE ROCK 2 (5 inn.) — ASHLEY MORAN batted 4-for-4 while CENNYA MOODY added three basehits, supporting a 10-strikeout performance by freshman pitcher GEENA HENDERSON in the Monarchs' non-league victory over the road Warriors.

Destini Bullock (3) is all smiles after one of her two home runs, as Helix defeated Steele Canyon for the first time since 2005, 12-4, in GHL play. (Photo by Tony Bordine) Nine years later, Helix bends Steele By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com LA MESA (4-10-14) —- When Steele Canyon High opened its doors, most of its sports teams were filled with underclassman. Not surprisingly, success came slowly, especially in softball. The Cougars were swept in their season series with Helix in 2003-04, posting a 1-19 composite record in league play. However, they gained a split in 2005, with the Highlanders taking a 1-0 decision in 9 innings on the final day of the regular season (May 18, 2005). Since then, Steele Canyon has controlled Helix, winning 18 consecutive Grossmont Conference ballgames... until Wednesday (Apr. 9). The Scotties finally ended the ugly stretch after sophomore third baseman DESTINI BULLOCK slammed a pair of home runs, gaining the long-awaited conquest of the Cougars, 12-4. "We were wondering how long it's been," said Helix coach Emily Kowalski. "We knew it had been a while." Kowalski is the fifth Helix head coach since the last time the school beat Steele Canyon . But with stability in the coaching ranks and some young talent, the Highlanders hope to have a say in the outcome of this season's Grossmont Hills League race. No one thought ending the streak was possible after the visiting Cougars opened the contest by scoring three times in their first at-bat, aided by two errors, a passed ball and a wild pitch. "You can't help but think, 'Here we go again,'" added Kowalski. "But we played hard and KAITLIN (JACOBS) pitched really well." Jacobs allowed just one run over the final six innings, a 4th-inning marker that tied the score at 4-all. But when Helix answered with an 8-run explosion in the bottom of the 4th, the streak was promptly snapped. Shortstop SIERRA SALAZAR started the outburst with a bunt single, moving to second on a throwing error. Salazar then scored the go-ahead run when second baseman CLARISSA SMITH doubled. Bullock, the third baseman, followed with a basehit to drive in her fifth run of the contest. She earlier hit the scoreboard in left-center field with a solo home in the 1st, then a 3-run hot just left of the board for a 4-3 lead in the 3rd. Steele Canyon moved even with a 2-out rally, when MELISSA PAINE doubled, coming home on a KENDRA BUCKLEY bloop single. The big inning also included an RBI single by DESIRAE BORDINE, then a 2-run single from TEAGAN GARDNER. For the contest, Bullock batted 3-for-4 with five RBI, Salazar went 3-for-4 and scored twice, while Smith was 2-for-4. Top: The Scotties' Clarissa Smith with the big slide is safe at third base. Bottom: Kaitlyn Jacobs earned the pitching win. (Photos by Tony Bordine)

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE(4-10-14) — Twenty-four hours after capturing the Grossmont Conference Tournament crown, West Hills was struggling against visiting Granite Hills. But first baseman ALEX GUAY saved the day.

Guay, a freshman, rocked a 2-run homer in the bottom of the 6th inning, sending the Wolf Pack past the Eagles, 3-2, in Wednesday's (Apr. 9) Grossmont Hills League contest.

Guay fouled off several pitches before she cracked a blast to left-center field, also scoring BRANDY McCRYSTAL (single).

West Hills grabbed the early lead in the 2nd on McCrystal's first hit, a double to left-center, to bring home KAYCEE AQUININGOC (walk, stolen bases).

However, Granite Hills scored twice in the 5th to assume the lead.

The two-out rally saw KAILA DeWITT and BRIENNA TYSELING both single, both coming on freshman HALLE KYLER's double.

Although the Eagles later had two runners on base in the 5th and 7th innings, Wolf Pack reliever RYLEIGH DOBYNS tossed two shutout innings for the victory.

West Hiills catcher Cortney Horns gets upended, yet registered the out at the plate in a 3-2 triumph over Granite Hills. (Photo by Shuree Horne)

VALHALLA 7, GROSSMONT 1 — The Norsemen moved to 2-0 in the Grossmont Hills League by swamping the host Foothillers behind a 4-hitter from pitcher ASHLEY MADARA. The senior registered four strikeouts, firing five shutout innings after Grossmont took a quick 1-0 lead in the 2nd inning.

However, Valhalla scored in each of the final five innings to comfortably pull away.

The Norsemen, who are on pace to eclipse the school record for home runs in a season, received a 2-run shot to center field by CARLEE WALLACE to take the lead in the 3rd. It was her third homer of the season.

Later, MIRANDA THOMAS belted her East County leading sixth home run, a solo shot to center.

Other offensive highlights included junior rightfielder KATIE SCHMIDT, who went 2 for 4 with a 2 RBI single in the 5th and a triple to right-center in the 7th, a towering flyball that kicked off the yellow fence topper.

In addition to the team's power numbers, ABIGAIL METSCH and LadySARAH FEDERICO — a pair of juniors — each posted a sacrifice fly.

For Grossmont, MEGAN MALWITZ drove in yet another run from the No. 7 slot in the Hillers batting order. In the 2nd, CHLOE CAMARERO singled to right, KATLA BAEZ bunted her to second, then Malwitz sent a shot to left-center field.

Grossmont Valley League
EL CAPITAN 13, EL CAJON VALLEY 0 (5 inn.) — The Vaqueros may have found a pitcher in freshman AMANDA VASQUEZ. In just her second varsity start, Vasquez topped her debut 1-hitter against Mount Miguel by tossing a no-hitter at the visiting Braves.

Vasquez, after facing just two batters above the minimum against the Matadors, also did one better in allowing just one base runner when she hit a batter with a pitch. She struck out five.

The Vaqueros scored seven times in the 1st, including a 3-run homer by KAYLA KRUEL.

"I know what it's like to be on El Cajon 's side," said El Capitan coach Joe Cota about the winless Braves. "But they're still hustling and playing with enthusiasm, so when an outfielder makes a catch, they react like they won a championship."

Sydney Stelse delivers one of her two homers for Santana to beat Monte Vista. (Photo by Steve Brase)

SANTANA 9, MONTE VISTA 1 — Don't allow the final score to fool you, as this ballgame was even heading into the 6th inning before the visiting Sultans busted loose for six runs to stop the Monarchs.

The rally started when senior SYDNEY STELSE belted the first of her two leadoff homers on the afternoon. She opened the 4th with a shot to left in the 4th to tie the game, then opened the 6th with a shot to left-center for what proved to be the game-winning run.

It was the third homer in two games for Stelse.

The 6th-inning rally continued with consecutive basehits by ASHLEE GROOVER, JORDAN TEEGARDIN and SAVANAH FENN to load the bases.

Center fielder MARRISSA LAWRENCE followed with a 2-run single, two more runs scored on an error on a ball hits by SYDNEY VATES, then MacKENZIE REYNOLDS singled for another run.

In the 7th, following Stelse's second homer, Groover garnered another single, coming home when SYNDEY BENJAMIN followed with an RBI hit.

Monte Vista's run came in the 2nd, when JAYDE WHITEHEAD singled, stole second base, then came home on an RBI single to right by CYANNA MOODY.

The Monarchs had another chance to score, but Teegardin, the Santana right fielder, fired a strike to Fenn, the catcher, for an out at the plate to end the inning.

Non-League
PATRICK HENRY 3, OTAY RANCH 0 — Freshman pitcher MADISON "M.J." JAMES fired a 5-hit shutout, lifting the Patriots to Wednesday's (Apr. 9) non-league triumph over the visiting Mustangs.

For James, it was her second complete-game shutout of her career, while Otay Ranch (12-6) was blanked for the first time this season. The Mustangs were last shutout 22 games ago, falling in last season's playoffs to Poway .

"It's easy to call pitches for M.J. when she's hitting her spots as well as she has been lately," said Pats coach Don Shaffer.

The only supports James would need was provided by SIERRA ALTMEYER in the 3rd inning.

CASSIE VAN TIL, who went 2-for-2 in the contest, opened the inning with a basehit. She was replaced on the bases on a fielder's choice by CRISTIONA "C.C." CACCAMISE, who scored on consecutive basehits from HANNAH McEWEN (to center field) and Altmeyer (to right).

An inning later, two additional runs came home, one on a throwing error and another when Altmeyer again delivered a two-out, run-scoring basehit.

MIRA MESA 9, HITTLOP 1 — TEIYA MAUGA batted 3-for-3 with a double and two RBI, as the host Marauders scored in five of their six trips to the plate to handle Hilltop in Wednesday's (Apr. 9) non-league game.

JORDYN NOWAKOWSKI also added three hits and scored a run, coming home on Mauga's double in the 3rd inning for a 4-0 cushion.

TAYLOR TOMPKINS also added three hits, including a pair of doubles, while winning pitcher ALICIA GARCIA allowed just three hits in five solid innings. JIANNA MIQUE pitched no-hit ball over the final two frames to close out the win.

East County Sports' Game of the Week

Tue., Apr. 8 Grossmont Confernece Tournament Championship West Hills 3, Patrick Henry 2

Presented By...                 ...Celebrating its First Anniversary!

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-9-14) — Every once in a while, a top team puts out a clunker on the field.

The Denver Broncos lost the Super Bowl by five touchdowns. UConn dropped its Big East Conference Tournament final by 33 points to Cincinnati before reeling off six straight NCAA wins to claim the national men's basketball championship.

And the West Hills Wolf Pack were swamped via run rule by Patrick Henry, 13-3, in a Grossmont Conference Tournament pool play contest.

"It wasn't good," deadpanned Wolf Pack coach Mike Applebaum.

West Hills pitchers Tess Eaton (left) and Kelci Ellis-Alvarez combined to defeat Patrick Henry, 3-2, to capture the Grossmont Conference Tournament championship. (Photos by Shuree Horne)

Despite the setback, West Hills still managed to gain a rematch by claiming its pool. And the ballclub took advantage.

Three different players knocked in runs, then a pair of pitchers withstood a late Patriots rally, allowing the Pack to capture Tuesday's (Apr. 8) GCT title game, 3-2. The crown was the school's third over the past seven seasons.

"I don't think we came prepared to play (in the first meeting), said lead-off batter BRANDY McCRYSTAL. "So everyone came out pumped up and were ready."

As she has all season long, McCrystal set the stage for the heart of the batting order to drive in runs by getting on base. The senior twice singled as the Wolf Pack rallied to race to a 3-1 advantage.

After Patrick Henry scored once in the 1st, McCrystal answered back with a lead single to ignite a 2-run rally.

"After they scored, it was important for us to score quickly, too," she added.

KENDALL MARINESA then reached on an error, setting the stage for consecutive RBI by KELCI ELLIS-ALVAREZ and ALEX GUAY.

In the 4th, basehits by SIERRA SCHLICTING, McCrystal and CORTNEY HORNE (RBI) produced another run for West Hills (6-3-1).

Patrick Henry (12-4) fought back when DANIELLE ROMERO slugged a one-out, solo homer to left field in the 6th. However, Ellis-Alvarez entered the pitching circle to save the victory over TESS EATON, registering the final four outs.

The Pats' first game came on a series of consecutive one-out basehits by HANNAH McEWEN, CRISTIONA "C.C." CACCAMISE and MADDIE BARRAZA (RBI).

Garcia was tagged for a pair of unearned runs in the 3rd inning to give Eastlake a 2-1 lead. However, Mira Mesa answered with four runs in both the 3rd and 6th innings to reclaim control.

Included was a bases-loaded double by Garcia to grab a 4-2 lead, clearing the bases to score KRISTEN PARKER (safe on error), QUIRISA MAUGA (hit by pitch). and JORDYN NOWAKOWSKI (walk).

TAYLOR TOMPKINS later grounded out to the right side, allowing courtesy runner ALEXIS MARHSALL to come home for a 5-2 advantage.

In the 6th, Mauga belted an RBI double and Garcia added another run-scoring single to push the margin to six runs. Nowakowski finished with two hits.

Eastlake, which came off a 1-0 victory over Rancho Bernardo, fell to 9-5.

MOUNTAIN EMPIRE 11, CHRISTIAN 1 (5 inn.) — Senior shortstop Grayce Majam batted 3-for-3, lifting the visiting Redhawks in Tuesday's (Apr. 8) non-league make-up game against the Patriots at Dawson Field. Included was a 3-run homer by the Ole Miss recruit.

Christian registered its lone run in the 2nd inning.

MacKENZIE NEWQUIST accepted a leadoff walk. She moved to second base on a SAGE SALAPUP basehit, then scored when ALEX MEZA singled.

Granite Hills' Jessie LaPierre slides into second base against Grossmont. The Hillers defender is Carly Pearson. (Photo by Don Wall) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-8-14) — Could a league opener already be considered an elimination game?

Although the point may be extreme, there's no doubt the Granite Hills Eagles firmly believe they can contend in the evenly-matched Grossmont Hills League race following Monday's (Apr. 7) 3-2 triumph over visiting Grossmont.

Eagles pitcher KAILA DeWITT allowed just six hits, surviving a Foothillers rally in the 5th inning by registering an inning-ending strikeout — or was it?

After Grossmont moved to within a run on when two baserunners scored on a DESTINY BACON basehit to center field, the next batter took a check-swing on a 2-2 pitch. By the time any appeal was made — some 25 seconds — the base umpire ruled a swing to conclude the rally.

The call proved decisive as Grossmont would not get another runner into scoring position the rest of the way.

"Because of our defense and pitcher, I can definitely see us winning league," said senior BROOKLYN SCHWEN, who drove in a 4th-inning run. "After a slow start, we're pulling everything together."

Schwen noted a difficult schedule, which included perhaps the toughest of the eight pools at the Cougar Classic, contributing to an 0-6 start. Now Granite Hills has won six of eight, gaining the eye of GHL rivals.

DeWiit also used her bat to grab the early lead. After KATIE WALL blasted a double to the fence, DeWitt eventually drove Wall home on a basehit to right-center field.

In the 4th, a one-out double by JESSIE LaPIERRE was followed by a pair of two-out hits. Schwen lifted the ball over the shortstop to score LaPierre, then Schwen came around when Wall found the left-field corner for a triple.

Grossmont rallied from a 3-0 deficit on Bacon's basehit to the outfield. MADISON LINDSAY (lead single) scored, but CHLOE CAMARERO (hit by pitch) also came home when the ball rolled up the arm of the defender and rolled behind her.

The Hillers then received three outs by Bacon, the center fielder, in the 6th, including a running grab of a liner to end the inning. She also garnered an outfield assist by throwing a runner out on the bases..

EDITOR'S NOTE: The record book failed to list current Valhalla junior LadySarah Federico, who had 8 RBI in an away game vs. San Diego High, on Apr. 16, 2012, when she hit two grand slams. VW drives to school record Valhalla's Wallace collects 7 RBi vs. Helix By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com RANCHO SAN DIEGO (4-8-14) — Valhalla High senior CARLEE WALLACE eclipsed the school record for runs batted in by driving in seven runs Monday (Apr. 7), powering the Norsemen past visiting Helix, 11-1 in 5 innings, in the ballclubs' Grossmont Hills League opener. Wallace broke the mark of six RBI, set by future National Pro Fastpitch professional player SAVANNAH BROWN, who later played for Georgia Tech and the NPF Philadelphia Force. Batting third in the batting order, Wallace accounted for 10 total bases with a pair of home runs and a double to collect her septet. Wallace gave the Norsemen a quick 2-0 lead with a deep drive to left field in the 1st inning. She added her second homer on a drive to left-center field — a 3-run homer which also plated BRANDI KOHEL and DANIELLE UY — in a six-run explosion in the 6th to make it 9-1. The Norsemen slugged three homers on the afternoon, including an 8-ball by EMILY HOWARD for her first career varsity homer. Kohel and Uy also posted multiple-hit outings. The support was more than enough for pitcher ASHLEY MADARA, who scattered four hits without issuing a walk, helping Valhalla end a mild, 2-game skid. The Grossmont Conference record for RBI is nine, set by current San Diego State standout LORENA KLOPP (now BAUER) in 2007 while at Steele Canyon.   Another top performance in recent years were 8 RBI, by SHAE BASS of Santana as a freshman against El Capitan in 2004. The East County and CIF San Diego Section mark is 12, set by Christian's JENNY RAY against Hoover during a Central League contest in 2000, while a pair of players from Mountain Empire each recorded 10 RBI in a single ballgame. FALLBROOK 11, CHRISTIAN 1 (5 inn.) — Warriors pitcher Brooke Koran tossed a no-hitter in downing the visiting Patriots in Monday's (Apr. 7) non-league, make-up game played at the self-proclaimed Avocado Capital of the World. It was "Dark Water" from the start after Falbrook scored six quick runs. Christian's lone run came in the 3rd without, obviously, the aid of a basehit. Patriots senior ALYSSA HARRIS, East County's top returning hitter from a year ago, accepted a leadoff walk. She was replaced on a fielder's choice by ANNIE ATTEBURY, who moved to second base on a wild pitch. ANNA SHERBURNE also walked, with another wild pitch advancing the runners. But when the throw to third by the Fallbrook catcher sailed down the left-field line, Attebury scored to ruin the shutout bid. Christian goes for its first win in Tuesday's make-up home game against Mountain Empire. MISSION BAY 13, SERRA 5 — Conquistadors outfield Jordynn Bartolome recorded three hits and three RBI, but seven team errors resulted in an ugly, non-league setback in Pacific Beach . OTAY RANCH 11, SANTANA 4 — Senior SYDNEY STELSE homered, otherwise the host Sultans had a long day against the Mustangs in non-league action.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
CARMEL VALLEY (4-6-14) — Many of the ballcubs which placed among the medalists at the Cougar Classic were nowhere to be found in Saturday's (Apr. 5) championship of the Cougar Classic.

The title for the 24-team competition went to Westview, which defeated Fallbrook (4-2) and Mira Mesa (3-1) to capture the 16th annual event.

Katie Schultz drove in the go-ahead run when the Wolverines tallied twice in the bottom of the 6th inning to snap a 1-all tie. For her tournament-long effort, Schultz, a senior outfielder, was named the most valuable player.

Westview pitcher Megan Krause tossed a 1-hitter, but the Most Valuable Pitcher award went to Mira Mesa's Alicia Garcia, who just rejoined the team following a 13-month hiatus. Garcia posted a 4-0 record in the event.

Marauders senior shortstop QUIRISA MAUGA registered the lone hit for Mira Mesa (7-7).

Earlier on the day, Garcia spun a 5-hit shutout at tournament host Torrey Pines, 6-0, in the morning semifinals.

The lone setback for Westview (14-1-1) this season was a 4-2 decision to Cathedral Classic in the Cougar Classic championship semifinals. The Lady Dons then defeated Patrick Henry for the crown.

UPDATE: The Grossmont Conference Tournament final is set for this Tuesday (Apr.8), with Patrick Henry playing at West Hills, starting at 4 p.m.

The perpetual award for the City of Santee championship goes to West Hills after downing Santana, 4-2. Holding the trophy is catcher Cortney Horne next to pitcher Ryleigh Dobyns. (Photo by Shuree Horne)

East County Sports' Game of the Week  Presented By...                 ...Celebrating its First Anniversary! Wolf Pack freshman Ryleigh Dobyns stops Santana on a 6-hitter to take the Santee city championship. (Photo by Shuree Horne) Wolf Pack claims Santee city crown, berth in Grossmont Conference Tournament final By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com SANTEE (4-5-14) — In her four-year career as starting catcher for West Hills High, CORTNEY HORNE has been the backstop for several fine pitchers, including one who led the Wolf Pack to a CIF championship. However, above all the previous pitchers, Horne seems most excited about catching for the ballclub's current starter, freshman RYLEIGH DOBYNS. "Did you see what she did today? And Ryleigh's only a freshman," Horne declared. "She's already that good." Good enough to give the Wolf Pack a 4-2 triumph over city-rival Santana in the schools' annual battle at Sportsplex USA . The win also gave West Hills the lead in its pool in the Grossmont Conference Tournament. Dobyns tossed a 6-hitter on Friday (Apr. 4), then was aided by a 7th-inning double play by shortstop SIERRA SCHLICTING. The freshman snagged a line drive, then fired to second base. Fortunately for Santana, the runner at first base returned to the bag, preventing a potential game-ending triple play. "My entire infield are underclassmen," noted West Hills coach Mike Applebaum, of three frosh and a sophomore. "And with a freshman pitcher, who can be good for a long time." Horne just added to the accolatdes about Dobyns. "She was really spinning the ball all game," added Horne, who is headed for Cal State Northridge. "All of her pitches were really moving." West Hills will meet Patrick Henry for the GCT title. However, Dobynes hopes for much more. "I really think we can win CIF," said Dobyns. "Our team works really hard, so anything's possible." A throwing error allowed Santana to tie the game at 2-all in the 5th, but West Hills immediately answered with two runs in the home-half of the inning. With one out, four consecutive batters reached base to spell the difference KENDALL MARINESI lined a basehit to left, then Horne was walked. ALEX GUAY followed with a line single to center for the go-ahead run. Dobyns hit an RBI single to right-center for the insurance run. Santana opened the scoring in the 2nd, when courtesy runner JORDAN TEAGARDIN eventually scored on a basehit to left by MONIQUE MENARD. West Hills answered with two in the 2nd on RBI hits by BRANDY McCRYSTAL and Marinesi. The Sultans got even when KYLE BRASE singled and SAVANAH FENN, with MARRISSA LAWRENCE and Fenn advancing on a double steal. However, on a throw behind Fenn at second base, the ball skipped into the outfield to allow Lawrence to tie it.

© East County Sports.com
SAN CARLOS (4-5-14) — The top hitting ballclubs in the CIF San Diego Section include the "usual suspects" in Bonita Vista, Poway and Torrey Pines, among others. Very soon, the conversation will include Patrick Henry following another demolition of an opponent's pitching staff.

On Friday (Apr. 4), the Patriots pasted a pair of pitchers from Valhalla, taking an easy 14-2 triumph to gain a berth in the Grossmont Conference Tournament championship. They seek to become just the second non-district school to capture the crown,

However, the final will not be played Saturday as scheduled with so many schools previously slated for the final round of the Falcon Fiesta at Torrey Pines.

Junior second baseman SIERRA ALTMEYER, the Patriots' top hitter, actually had an off day after going 1 for-4. But she had plenty of backers. Included were home runs by MADISON JAMES and DANIELLE ROMERO.

"M.J. (James) really made a bad swing, but she doesn't realize how strong she is," said head coach DON SHAFFER. "She didn't even finish her swing, but the ball went high over the center-field fence by at least 30 feet."

James' homer to lead off the 5th capped a 3-for-4 outing, which included a double (and a line out), good for three RBI and a pair of runs scored. She also pitched the first four innings to gain the win, coming out early to save her for Saturday's Fiesta game with hard-hitting Rancho Buena Vista (to be played at La Costa Canyon).

Meanwhile, Romero started a 3-3, four RBI performance with a 2-run shot to left in the 1st. SHe also walked and scored twice.

Senior ERIN SHICK batted 2-for-2 with an RBI then finished the game in the circle for James.

Meanwhile, freshmen HANNAH McEWEN and CRISTIONA CACCAMISE also added two hits each. McEwen, the center fielder, collected three RBI. Caccamise, who gained a start at third base, had an RBI double and scored twice.

Grosmsont's Kat Trego (right) arrvies at home place following her home run. (Photo by Rick Davila)

SERRA 12, GROSSMONT 8 — Moments after the visiting Foothillers scored four times in the 6th to assume an 8-7 lead, the Conquistadors answered back with a 5-spot to take Friday's (Apr. 4) Grossmont Conference Tournament pool play contest in Tierrasanta.

First baseman ASHLEY BLAKELY knocked in three runs for the Q's, while shortstop AMBER WOZNIAK had two hits and a pair of RBI.

For Grossmont, KAT TREGO registered three hits for two RBI, including a 2-run homer to cap the 6th-inning rally to grab the lead, but four Hillers errors doomed them.

Trego went 3-for-4 with a triple, scoring all three times, including once on an RBI single to center by CHLOE CAMARERO in the 5th.

In the 6th, CARLY PEARSON tripled home MADISON LINDSAY (lead single), then Pearson scored on a CEL DAVILA basehit before Trego went deep.

The Hillers also had an early 3-0 lead. Trego started the rally with a lead single, later scoring on a sacrifice fly by KAYLA BAEZ. An error allowed ALEXIS COLLINS to reach base, scoring when MEGAN MALWITZ pounded a 2-run homer to right-center field.

EL CAPITAN 6, HELIX 5 (8 inn.) — The Vaqueros' COURTNEY WILLIAMS scored the go-ahead run in the 8th, then entered the pitching circle to save the game for starting pitcher KATIE CARMICHAEL to nip the host Highlanders in a Grossmont Conference Tournament game.

Santana's Savanah Fenn (center with helmet) is congratulated following her 2-run home in the Sultans' 8-5 win over Helix. (Photo by Tony Bordine)

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-3-14) — Owning 11 consecutive seasons with 20 more victories, Santana High holds expectation to extend the remarkable streak despite the graduation of the majority of starters from last season’s CIF San Diego Section Division 3 champions.

On Wednesday (Apr. 2), Fenn slugged a 2-run homer helping the Sultans mount an 8-1 lead, hanging on to down visiting Helix, 8-5-, in a Grossmont Conference Tournament pool play affair. The victory allowed Santana (5-6 overall) to tie Patrick Henry for the pool title, however the Patriots will advance to the title game on a tie-breaker.

The new blood infused into the Sultans line-up includes pitcher SOPHIA MARTORANA, who pitched five solid innings before Helix made a late move.

"Her curveball was really moving," noted Fenn. “And Sophia did a great job placing her pitches."

Meanwhile, Fenn really tagged her home run.

"It was a cookie and I turned on it," she noted.

Martorana allowed just three hits through five innings, but the experience of surviving a pair of difficult innings should also aid her confidence.

"It will help me with my concentration to finish games," said Martorana. "Right now, I want to help this team get back into the playoffs, just like they always seem to do."

Shortstop SYDNEY VATES led the offense with two hits, including a double and scoring twice. First baseman SYDNEY STELSE also added a pair of basehits.

For Helix, DESIRAE BORDINE also went 2-for-3.

PATRICK HENRY 11, GROSSMONT 2 — Patriots pitcher ERIN SHICK allowed just five hits, clinching their pool of the Grossmont Conference Tournament to gain a championship game berth.

However, with the Patriots already slated for Saturday's final round of the Falcon Fiesta, the GCT finale will be played later in the season, as Patrick Henry seeks to become only the second school from outside the GUHSD to capture one of the county's oldest events (Mira Mesa, 2010).

SIERRA ALTMEYER continued her hot-hitting prowess. The junior lead-off batter went 5-for-5 and scored four times. Included was a lead homer in the 6th, giving her three RBI for the contest.

In addition, CRISTIONA "C.C." CACCAMISE went 4-for-5 with two runs and three RBI. Grossmont also noted the defensive play of the temporary third baseman, making several fine stops on sharp grounders to prevent basehits. Caccamise is usually the catcher, but the Patriots needed to alter their defense due to the absence of two starters,

Grossmont center fielder DESTINI BACON posted a big day on defense with a pair of assists, plus another running catch in the gap to rob a batter of an extra-base hit.

Bacon fielded a basehit and fired home to nail a runner at the plate in the 3rd. Two frames later, she made a catch, then nailed a runner tagging in an attempt to reach third base for a double play.

WEST HILLS 4, SERRA 0 — Sophomore KELCI ELLIS-ALVAREZ pitched her best game of the season, firing a 1-hit shutout at the Conquistadors in Wednesday's (Apr. 2) Grossmont Conference Tournament contest.

Ellis-Alvarez registered 14 strikeouts without a walk, facing just two batters above the minimum; the other runner reached on an error.

She also registered the game-winning RBI by driving in the game's first run on a bases-loaded ground ball to the right side, bringing home freshman CAELII GIBBS (single in the 4th inning.

In the 6th, BRANDI McCRYSTAL circled the diamond after getting hit by a pitch, stealing second base, moved to third on a Gibbs single, then home on an RBI double by CORTNEY HORNE.

The Wolf Pack doubled their advantage on just two pitches in the 7th.

Second baseman RYLEIGH DOBYNS swung at the first pitch for a basehit. SYDNEY CRAVEN followed by also swinging at the first offering from the Serra pitching, clouting a 2-run homer to center field.

The lone hit for the Conquistadors was a one-out single by left fielder STEPHANIE MACE in the 6th.

Granite Hills second baseman Brielle Tyseling. (Photo by Don Wall) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

EASTLAKE 3, GRANITE HILLS 2 — The Titans received a walk-off RBI single to take Wednesday's (Apr. 2) non-league game in the South Bay, when three unearned runs ended the Eagles' 4-game winning streak.

Eagles pitcher KAILA DeWITT tossed five shutout innings, allowing just three hits. But when she came out of the game, the defense seemingly went with her as Eastlake scored a pair of unearned runs in the 6th.

DeWitt fired back with her bat, stroking a 2-run single up the middle to tie it in the 7th. The rally started when CASSIDY COKER walked, then HALLA KYLER doubled. DeWitt went 2-for-4 at the plate.

But the Titans won when a baserunner reached on an error. A basehit by sophomore Samantha Manti send the runner home, but the throw to the plate was dropped to prevent extra innings,

VALHALLA at EL CAPITAN — This pool play contest in the Grossmont Conference Tournament was postponed due to wet grounds. A make-up date has yet to be announced.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SAN CARLOS (4-2-14) — Rancho Bernardo High senior Sara White is rated among the top pitchers in the San Diego Section, but her occasional wildness has prevented many from declaring her to be the best.

Patrick Henry freshman MADISON JAMES, a physical equivalent with a lanky, 6-foot frame, also fires a stellar riseball. She also demonstrated more control, the difference in Tuesday's (Apr. 1) 2-1 victory for the host Patriots in Falcon Fiesta tournament play.

For White, it was the cruelest of April's Fool jokes. The Notre Dame bound right-hander fired a no-hitter, only to lose when she suddenly couldn't find the strike zone immediately after her Broncos gave her the lead on a solo homer by junior second baseman Brianna Burchianti.

"I think she just froze up for a moment," said James, who acknowledged knowing the feeling. "Sara got a little tight, then we were able to take advantage of it."

Burchianti sent a 2-out drive to center field for a 1-0 lead. But with Patrick Henry batters facing White for a second time through the batting order, their patience proved valuable after knowing what her riseball looked like.

MONTANA POTTS opened the bottom of the 3rd with a walk. One out later, James and HANNAH McEwen also accepted free passes to load the bases.

Cleanup hitter DANIELLE ROMERO followed. Anticipating a strike, the sophomore went with an outside pitch and sent a hard roller to second base. But when the ball kicked off the defender's glove, climbed over her shoulder and bounded into right field, two runs scored (Romero was awarded one RBI since Potts was headed for home on contact on the hard grounder).

"Sara pitched a very good game, but those things happen," added James, who walked just one, then retired Rancho Bernardo in order on three soft grounders in the 7th

White struck out four, but was doomed by five walks.

With the victory, Patrick Henry (10-2 overall) is now a perfect 4-0 against CIF Open Division ballclubs. They earlier downed Bonita Vista, Poway and West Hills.

In the tournament, the Patriots complete Fiesta pool play with a 3-1 record. However, should Ramona win its final two pool games, the Bulldogs could take the pool via two tiebreakers (head-to-head and fewest runs allowed).

Granite Hills pitcher Kaila DeWitt fired a 1-hit shutout against Orange Glen. (Photo by Don Wall) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

After the Cougars scored to tie the contest at 1-all, Lady Dons slugger Sarai Niu, a junior third baseman, smacked a 3-run homer, lifting the Cougar Classic champions to another victory.

It was a bounce-back win for Cathedral Catholic (11-1) after its 10-game win streak was snapped by Poway, 2-0, on Saturday (Mar. 29).

For Steele Canyon (4-8), BRITTANY FITCH batted 2 for 3 with an RBI and a stand-up double.

GRANITE HILLS 10, ORANGE GLEN 0 (6 inn.) — Eagles third baseman VICTORIA HATHAAY capped the run rule victory with a 3-run homer in the bottom of the 6th, giving pitcher KAILA DeWITT the victory in a non-league pasting of the Patriots.

DeWitt finished with a 1-hit shutout in her best effort of the season. The junior right-hander struck out seven without issuing a walk, facing just two batters over the minimum (the other OG baserunner was safe on an error).

The lone basehit for Orange Glen came in the 6th.

Right fielder BROOKLYN SCHWEN batted 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI. Catcher JESSIE LaPIERRE also went 2-for-3 and drove in a run.