EAST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOFTBALL — 2015

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Wolf Pack dominates Santee and Sports Plex

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-29-15) — Only separated by a couple of miles in Santee, both West Hills and Santana have over the years clashed in some great softball battles but this year in the 2015 version of the Mayor’s Cup Trophy rivalry game the Wolf Pack dominated in all facets with the 10-0 victory in five innings.

Melissa Castillo with a lead off single for the Pack. Photo courtesy of SHUREE HORNE. Thanks for the photo Shuree

Played out at the Santee Sports Plex in front of a fantastic crowd for both teams with both sides of the stands full, the contest started out looking like a pretty darn good one as both teams matched each other with scoreless innings through the first two.

However that would end as the Wolf Pack took advantage of the Sultans in the top of the third inning as they put five runs on the board.

Leading off for West Hills, BROOKE ROBERTS was able to lace a single, she than stole second base, KENDALL MARINESI 1-3 (2 RBI, 2 R) drew the base on balls, ALEX GUAY was hit by a pitch loading the bases for the Wolf Pack. Next up was the always dangerous RYLEIGH DOBYNS 1-2 (3 RBI, R) looking to continue her offensive ways, she was able to as she connected for a single that scored both Roberts and Marinesi.

So with only one down, up stepped SYDNEY CRAVEN 1-3(3 RBI, R) who took the offering and absolutely crushed a towering shot over the left field fence for a 3-run bomb to put the Wolf Pack up 5-0.

The Wolf Pack, looking to open things further, were able to do so in the fourth inning as MELISSA CASTILLO led off with a single, she would move up on an error by the first baseman, Brooke Roberts drew the walk and Kendall Marinesi would do the damage as she drove both of them in with a single.

West Hills would tack on a couple more runs in the top of the fifth thanks to singles by KELCI ELLIS-ALVAREZ and CAELI GIBBS. They would eventually both come in to score thanks to a single by PAIGE BOWLER 1-2 (2 RBI) thus finalizing the scoring.

In the bottom half of the fifth inning, the Sultans looked to keep things alive but unfortunately Wolf Pack starter Kelci Ellis Alvarez was able to sit down the Sultans in order to end the game.

Gaining the pitching victory, Alvarez went the distance while only giving up 1 hit and striking out 3 while walking none. Also with the victory, the Wolf Pack now have won two in a row in the Mayor’s Cup Trophy rivalry series and will be presented with the trophy presumably at the next Santee City Council meeting as someone forgot to let the Mayor’s office know that the game was even being played.

GRANITE HILLS 4, GROSSMONT 2 — Looking to stay atop the Grossmont Valley League the Grossmont Foothillers looked to extend their five game winning streak against the visiting Granite Hills Eagles, Tuesday (Apr. 28) but unfortunately the Eagles were able to keep the Foothillers at bay with the 4-2 victory and pull into a three way tie with Helix for first place.

Katie Wall with contact. Photo courtesy of Don Wall

The Eagles got on the board right out of the gate as KAREN CREECH led off with a smash triple and scored on a passed ball to lead 1-0. In the third inning, Creech did it again as she led off with single, moved to second on the sacrifice by KAILA DeWITT and came around to score on the RBI single by VICTORIA HATHAWAY to give the Eagles a 2-0 lead.

Granite Hills tacked on another run in the fourth inning as CASSIDY SHEW led off with a single and moved over on the sacrifice by KATIE WALL. The next batter KAYLA MACK grounded out giving the Eagles two outs. So with two down and Shew at second, up stepped BRIELLE TYSELING who took the 1-2 pitch and smashed a two-out clutch double that scored Shew to bring the score to 3-0.

In the sixth inning the Eagles again would score with two down as Katie Wall doubled and scored on the single by Kayla Mack.

Trailing 4-0 in the bottom of the sixth, the Foothillers looked to get something going and did their best as they were able to cut the lead as they scored two runs to make it 4-2. Leadoff hitter CARLY PEARSON would single and eventually score, LILI FLORES would reach on an error and eventually score. Both KIRA ELLIOT and DESTINY BACON had an RBI in the inning.

Unfortunately this was the closest they could manage to get as Dewitt was able to get out of the inning. They threatened in the bottom of the seventh as they had runners at the corners but couldn’t convert.

For the Eagles, Kaila Dewitt gets the pitching victory as she went the distance only giving up the two runs of which only one was earned while fanning three on the day.

STEELE CANYON 6, VALHALLA 1 — In Grossmont Hills League play, Tuesday (Apr. 28) the Steele Canyon Cougars hosted the Valhalla Norsemen and were able to pull into a three way tie with Santana for second place with the 6-1 victory.

After retiring the Norsemen in the top of the first inning, the Cougars looked to take advantage of their opportunities. They were able to do so as they jumped out quickly to a 1-0 lead thanks to ELIZABETH SOLIS getting hit by a pitch and coming around to score on the RBI double by KENDRA BUCKLEY.

The second inning saw the Cougars push another run across, this time with two outs as HANNAH DUDLEY singled and would score on the RBI triple by GENTRY HOFFMAN to take a 2-0 lead after two innings of play.

The Cougars were able to extend their lead in the third with two more runs as Kendra Buckley and JENNA RITTER scored. PAIGE BARNES knocked in a run in the inning.

Now leading by a score of 4-0, the Cougars were in charge and were able to score another run in the fourth inning thanks to an RBI single by KYLIE MINSHEW to lead 5-0.

The Norsemen finally got out of the inning. Trailing, they looked to get something going and finally were able to get on the board as RACHEL SHELLSTROM knocked in EMILY HOWARD to make the score 5-1. Unfortunately that was all they would put up as the Cougars got out of the inning and they would actually score another run in the bottom of the sixth to finalize the scoring.

With the victory, the Cougars finish the first round of play in a three way tie with Valhalla and Santana with a record of 2-2.

PATRICK HENRY 12, SERRA 2 — Coming off a grueling loss to Mira Mesa, the Patrick Henry Patriots looked to get back on the right track in Eastern League play and were able to accomplish the task with a 12-2 victory over the Serra Conquistadors, Tuesday (Apr. 28).

As usual the Patriots offense went as their leadoff hitter HANNAH McEWEN went and she started off things with a double. The next two batters were retired and it looked like the lead double would go to waste but Patriot cleanup hitter CRISTIONA CACCAMISE made sure that it wouldn’t as she belted the full count offering over the wall for the two run blast, to give the Patriots a 2-0 lead.

The lead wouldn’t be wasted as the Patriots broke things open in the third inning as they scored six runs to lead 8-0. Again it was McEwen leading off with a single, she would move to second on the hit by SYDNEY JAMES, and both of them would double steal, SIERRA ALTMEYER would knock in McEwen, Altmeyer would score along with ANYA VANDERSIP, MADDIE BARRAZA and DANIELLE ROMERO in the inning.

The top of the sixth inning saw the Patriots score four more runs to lead 12-0. In the bottom half of the inning the Conquistadors finally scored a couple of runs thanks to a two run scoring double by ASHLEY BLAKELY that scored both MEGAN POOLE and JORDYNN BARTOLOME.

HELIX 15, MONTE VISTA 5 — The Helix Highlanders looked to stay in the Grossmont Valley League race as they visited the host the Monte Vista Monarchs, Tuesday (Apr. 28) and were able to keep in the hunt thanks to a 15-5 victory.

The Highlanders were able to jump out early as they scored three runs in the first inning thanks to multitude of base hits. A single by CLARISSA SMITH 3-5 (3 R), KENDI SWINTON reached on an error and McKENZIE FLORES 3-4 (3 RBI, 3 R, 2B) doubled in a run, VICTORIA CYMAN smashed an RBI single and on a sacrifice fly, SILVANA DORNFELD hit a sacrifice fly to score another run.

In the bottom of the first inning the Monarchs were able to pull within a run as they scored two of their own. But Helix was able to put away things for good as they scored multiple times over the three innings including an eight run fourth. In the bottom of the fourth inning the Monarchs were able to push across three more runs to finalize their scoring.

Pitching for the Highlanders was SHAREENA LaCHANCE who gained the victory and she would be relieved by BRIANA REED who garnered the save. Also contributing to the victory was JAYCIE MATTHEWS 3-4 (2 RBI, 2 R) and besides the save, Reed would also finish 3-5 (RBI, R, 2B).

MOUNT MIGUEL 29, EL CAJON VALLEY 5 — In Grossmont Valley League play the host Mount Miguel Matadors scored early and often and never looked back in the 29-5 victory.

For the Matadors, GIO MONRREAL 3-4 (5 RBI, 2 R) and CIERRA CONWRIGHT 3-4 (3 RBI, 5 R) were among the offensive bats guiding the Matadors to their first win in league play.

STEPHANIE HERRERA would garner the victory for the Matadors, as she came in to relieve DEANNA HERNANDEZ going two innings, giving up a hit and striking out three.

SCRIPPS RANCH 13, CHRISTIAN 0 (5 inn.) — The Scripps Ranch Falcons took on the visiting Christian Patriots in Eastern League play, Tuesday (Apr. 28) and easily won a shortened 13-0 contest in 5 innings.

Wolf Pack drops one to Bonita Vista, but still looks good for playoffs

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
NATIONAL CITY (4-28-15) — Looking at the schedule of the West Hills Wolf Pack one can’t say they duck a challenge as they have played multiple top programs in the county all throughout the season.

This was the case again as they traveled to the South Bay to take on the No. 3 Bonita Vista Barons, Monday (Apr. 27). Unfortunately they were on the wrong end of the scoreboard, 9-2, despite playing a heck of a contest.

The Wolf Pack in the top of the first inning went down in order. In the bottom half of the inning the Barons were able to score a run thanks to a walk and a passed ball which led to a poor throw from the West Hills catcher that went into centerfield in an attempt to throw out the runner. Unfortunately the ball got by the centerfielder which allowed the runner to score. So after the defensive miscues the Barons led 1-0 early on.

The one run ballgame looked like it was going to hold as neither team could generate any type of offense thanks to the pitching and defense. That would all change in the bottom half of the fifth inning as the Barons pushed across seven runs to lead 8-0 thanks in part to a multitude of base hits as well as some interesting strike zone calls from the home plate umpire, thus changing the way the game was played. Also throw in a defensive miscue into the mix and it was just an all-around cluster of an inning. The Wolf Pack finally got out of the inning without any further damage done.

Despite trailing by a wider margin heading into the sixth inning, the Wolf Pack looked to get something going and finally were able to as they got on the board. Lead-off hitter NIKKI LEGGATE boomed a double, the next batter MELISSA CASTILLO laced a single, putting runners at first and second with no outs. Next up for the Wolf Pack, BROOKE ROBERTS unfortunately couldn’t move the runners as she flied out for the first out of the inning.

So getting creative, both runners Leggate and Castillo took off and were able to successfully pull off the double steal. At the plate stood MEGHAN FISHER who took the 2-2 offering and laced a single that easily scored Leggate. Castillo rounded third but hesitated and then ran and was able to somehow avoid the tag as she was called safe by the umpire. With the RBI single by Fisher, West Hills now only trailed 8-2. However, that was all the Wolf Pack could muster as the next two batters were retired.

The Barons in their half of the sixth inning would tack on their final run to round out the scoring for the game.

Despite the loss, the score was in no indication of how close the contest really was. Looking forward the Wolf Pack will look to use this as a springboard for the rest of the season as they surely will be in the top three of the Division I playoffs.

Foothillers point to victory

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-25-15) — Even though it was a gloomy day with dark clouds and it had rained earlier in the day, none of these obstacles were able to keep the Grossmont Foothillers from beating the visiting Point Loma Pointers 5-0 in non-league action, Friday (Apr. 24).

It was all a matter of time before the bats of the Foothillers would come alive and do their thing as they had the previous two games. In the bottom of the fourth inning, leadoff hitter DESTINY BACON 2-3 (RBI, 2 R) led the charge with a single to right and was sacrificed over to second by KATIE APPENZELLER 1-1 (RBI). With one out and Bacon on second, MEGAN MALWITZ hit a grounder to the third baseman who sailed it over the first baseman’s head, allowing Bacon to score. CHLOE CAMARERO knocked in Malwitz with a single to give the Foothillers the 2-0 lead after four innings.

The Foothillers holding onto the slim lead looked to extend it as they were able to retire the Pointers in the top half of the fifth inning. As usual the leadoff hitter CARLY PEARSON 2-4 (RBI) was able to get on base as she slashed a single, the next hitter TAYLOR BAEZ 2-4 (one run) ripped another single to left field, next batter ALEXIS COLLINS popped up. So with one down and runners on first and second Destiny Bacon looked to do some damage. Facing an 0-2 count she took the next offering and banged an RBI single that scored Pearson, Appenzeller would match that with an RBI single as well, scoring Baez. Looking for more, Megan Malwitz struck out, so now two down and Bacon in scoring position, up stepped KIRA ELLIOTT 2-3 (RBI) who was able to smash the offering for an RBI single that scored Bacon to give Grossmont a 5-0 lead.

The five runs would be all the Foothillers would need as the pitching and defense did the rest in shutting down the Pointers. Grossmont pitcher CASSIDY DAVILA was able to pretty much retire the Pointers one by one either by groundout or fly ball.

In the victory, Davila was able to get the complete game shutout while giving up four hits and fanning two. With the victory, the Foothillers look to use this momentum as they face Granite Hills to finish out the first round of Grossmont Valley League play on Tuesday (Apr. 28) and start the second round of league play with Helix on Thursday (Apr. 30) both of which are key league games and have playoff implications.

Eagles soar to victory

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-24-15) — The Granite Hills Eagles hosted the Monte Vista Monarchs, Thursday (Apr.23) in Grossmont Valley League action and came away with a 15-0 victory in 5 innings.

Photo courtesy of Don Wall. More pictures from this game available on the Photo page.

The Eagles in their half of the first inning scored four runs and never looked back thanks in part to a multitude of base hits. VICTORIA HATHAWAY 2-2 (2 RBI, 2B, 1B) doubled in KAREN CREECH 4-4 (4 R, 3B, 2B, 2 1B) who led off with a triple. JESSIE LAPIERRE 2-3 (HR, 2 RBI) bombed a two run dinger and KATIE WALL doubled in CASSIDY SHEW.

Granite Hills would put up two more runs in the second inning to lead 6-0 and in the third inning thanks to a three run shot by KAILA DeWITT 3-4 (HR, 3 RBI, 2B, 1B) and a two run blast by HALLE KYLER 3-4 (HR, 4 RBI, 2 2B) they were able to score seven more runs to lead 13-0. They rounded out their scoring in the fourth with a couple more runs.

The Monarchs were limited to three hits. GENNA HENDERSON 1-2, JAYDE GOLDHAGEN 1-2.

Taking the circle for the Eagles and tossing the complete game shutout was Kaila Dewitt who gave up three hits while striking out three.

MIRA MESA 10, PATRICK HENRY 6 — What is going on in the Eastern League?? Break up the Mira Mesa Marauders because they have pulled off back to back upsets. A couple of days after smashing Serra 17-0, they pulled off another upset with a major statement by beating the host No. 3 Patrick Henry Patriots 10-6 in Eastern League Play, Thursday (Apr. 23).

In the top of the first inning the Marauders struck first scoring a run on a couple of base hits to lead 1-0. However the Patriots scored five of their own in the bottom of the first. Leadoff hitter HANNAH McEWEN solo homerun, SIERRA ALTMEYER, CRISTIONA CACCAMISE and ANYA VANDERSIP along with MADDIE BARRAZA all would score in the inning.

Both teams would go scoreless in the second inning. However in the third inning Mira Mesa would score a run to cut the lead to 5-2. They would end up taking the lead in the fifth inning thanks to four runs via multiple base hits. They tacked on three more in the top of the sixth inning to lead 9-5. The Patriots answered with a run of their own in the bottom of the sixth to pull within 9-6 but that was the closest they would come as Mira Mesa scored another run in the seventh to finalize the scoring.

RANCHO BUENA VISTA 5, STEELE CANYON 1 — In non-league action the No. 2 Longhorns of RBV traveled to the East County to take on the host Steele Canyon Cougars, Thursday (Apr. 23) and were able to corral a 5-1 victory.

The Longhorns struck first, scoring three runs in the first to lead 3-0 early on. In the bottom of the third inning thanks to an RBI single by MAKAYLA STROMENGER that scored PAIGE BARNES, the Cougars were able to pull within 3-1. However that was the closest they would get within as the Longhorns scored two more runs in the top of the fourth inning. From there on out the pitching of the Longhorns pretty much shut down the Cougar offense to gain the victory.

VALHALLA 8, SANTANA 2 — In Grossmont Hills League action, Thursday (Apr. 23) the Valhalla Norsemen hosted the Santana Sultans and were able to gain the victory 8-2.

The Norsemen struck offensively first with four runs in the bottom of the first inning to lead 4-0 early on. In the second inning the Sultans would cut the lead in half 4-2. MACKENZIE REYNOLDS would get hit by a pitch and come around to score on a throwing error by the Valhalla shortstop. HANNAH COSTELLO boomed a double that hit off the right field fence that scored CELINE MENARD who had singled.

After their lead was cut in half the Norsemen would score again in the third and then score three more in the bottom of the sixth inning.

It was the second consecutive time the Norsemen had beaten the Sultans as they beat them earlier in the semifinals of the Bucs Classic.

Offensively for the Sultans, Hannah Costello had two hits, Celine Menard had one as well as MACKENZIE BENNETT and Mackenzie Reynolds.

Valhalla was led by DANIELLE UY 4-4 with two doubles, two runs scored and an RBI, ANNAMARIE IULIANO also banged a pair of doubles.

Pitching wise LILY METSCH went the full seven innings giving up two runs of which both were unearned.

WEST HILLS 22, EL CAPITAN 0 — The Wolf Pack hosted the El Capitan Vaqueros in Grossmont Hills League play, Thursday (Apr. 23) and cruised to the 22-0 victory.

West Hills in the first inning scored four runs thanks to a three run smash homerun by RYLEIGH DOBYNS 3-4 (2 HR, 6 RBI, 3 R, 2B). They would open the floodgates in the second inning pouring in fourteen runs to lead 18-0. Again it was Ryleigh Dobyns for the second consecutive inning, bombing a three run blast. Fellow teammate ALEX GUAY 1-2(HR, 2 RBI, 3 R, SB) got in the action with a two run blast of her own as well in the inning.

In the third inning, it was SAVANNAH HENDERSON 1-1 (HR, 3 RBI) this time belting a three run dinger and the scoring would be finalized with a solo blast by NIKKI LEGGATE 3-4 (HR, 2 RBI, 2 R).

Other Wolf Pack contributors included KENDALL MARINESI 3-3 (4 RBI, 3 R), BROOKE ROBERTS 3-3 (2 RBI, 3 R, 3B, SB).

SCRIPPS RANCH 8, SERRA 1 — The Serra Conquistadors looked to rebound against the No. 7 Scripps Ranch Falcons in Eastern League action, Thursday (Apr. 23) but unfortunately couldn’t muster much offense in the 8-1 loss.

The Conquistadors were limited to only three hits on the day and unfortunately didn’t score until the bottom of the seventh inning on a solo homerun by ASHLEY BLAKELY 1-3 (RBI, R).

CHRISTIAN 7, MORSE 6 — In a highly contested Eastern League contest, the Christian Patriots hosted the Morse Tigers on Thursday (Apr. 23) and won in dramatic fashion 7-6.

Offensively for the Patriots, COURTNEY SKJERVE was the hero as she went 3-5 with a double and had the game winning single which was a single to center to score the winning run to go along with her other single on the day.

In the circle it was ASHLEY CARTER who gained the victory for the Patriots.

GROSSMONT 30, EL CAJON VALLEY 0 — The Grossmont Foothillers traveled to El Cajon Valley to take on the Braves in Grossmont Valley League play, Thursday (Apr. 23) and gained the easy victory 30-0.

Offensively for the Foothillers, a multitude of players contributed including CHLOE CAMARERO 6-7 and blasted another homer run, TAYLOR BAEZ 6-7, DESTINY BACON 6-6.

In the circle, KAILEY DANIELS tossed a complete one hit shutout for the victory.

MOUNT MIGUEL 12, HELIX 2 — The Helix Highlanders hosted the Mount Miguel Matadors, Thursday (Apr.23) in Grossmont Valley League play and came away with the victory by a score of 12-2.

Highlanders chop the Torreys

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
LA JOLLA (4-23-15) — In non-league action, Wednesday (Apr. 22) the Helix Highlanders traveled to La Jolla Country Day and came away with the 7-4 victory.

Things didn’t go well for the Highlanders as they trailed early on as the Torreys jumped out 4-0 in the bottom of the second inning. However despite trailing, the Highlanders still had ample time to get back into the game. In the top of the fourth inning, Helix was able to finally get on the board with a run to chip at the lead 4-1.

Helix, a couple of innings later would put up a five spot to finally take the lead which would be for good as they led 6-4 and they would tack on another run in the seventh to round out their scoring.

The Torreys wouldn’t do anymore scoring after the second inning as the pitching and defense for Helix stepped up its game in shutting down La Jolla Country Day.

On the day the Highlanders were able to tally 10 hits in the victory.

West Hills takes a nailbitter over Valhalla

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-22-15) — Anyone attending a West Hills softball game should be warned that great excitement and too much drama might cause one to have a heart attack. All kidding aside it was the case again as for the second time in as many days the host West Hills Wolf Pack were able to pull out another victory from their magic hats as they were able to defeat the visiting No.10 Valhalla Norsemen 3-2 in the bottom of the seventh inning in Grossmont Hills League action, Tuesday (Apr. 21).

Everyone in attendance knew runs would be at a premium as the top two teams faced each other. The Wolf Pack after retiring the Norsemen in the top of the first threatened to score in the bottom half as KENDALL MARINESI ripped a two out double and ALEX GUAY followed with a walk. So with runners on first and second with two down, PAIGE BOWLER stepped to the plate but flied out to end the inning.

In the bottom of the third the Wolf Pack was finally able to score the first runs of the ballgame and lead 2-0 early on. Leadoff hitter BROOKE ROBERTS laced a single, RYLEIGH DOBYNS followed with another single, Kendall Marinesi flied out moving the runners up. So with runners now on second and third and one down, Alex Guay ripped a single that scored Roberts and then stole second base. Paige Bowler flew out to center but Ryleigh Dobyns tagged and scored.

So leading 2-0, TESS EATON went to work and was able to mow down the Norsemen batters one by one. Valhalla pitcher LILY LETSCH matched Eaton pitch for pitch despite giving up the two runs. All was looking well for the Wolf Pack heading into the final inning.

However the Norsemen wouldn’t go down without one last stand. Valhalla leadoff hitter KENNEDY LABSHERE laced a single, DANIELLE UY reached on an error and KATIE SCHMIDT drew a walk. Now with the bases full the Norsemen were in business and had life. West Hills’ Eaton calmly struck out LADY SARA FEDERICO for the first out, EMILY HOWARD then committed the second out.

The saying in baseball is that the third and last out is always the hardest to get. Well this can be said for softball as the Norsemen, down to their last out, sent ABIGAIL METSCH to the plate. She took the Eaton offering and popped it up by second base, both the West Hills shortstop and second baseman went for it and the ball popped off of the shortstop’s glove. This crucial error allowed both Labshere and Uy to score which tied the game at 2-2. Despite the two out let down, Eaton again calm and cool retired ALEXIS INGRASSIA via groundout to end the inning.

Now back in business, the Wolf Pack looked to end the game in their half of the seventh. Leadoff hitter MEGHAN FISHER laced a single and then stole second base, Ryleigh Dobyns, with one down and the infield in and the outfielders playing a shift, ripped the first pitch offering by Metsch high into right field and over the fielders head for the game winning RBI.

“I had confidence in our team that we would get that final out” said Dobyns when it came over the plate, it was very big and I just got ahold of it.” said Dobyns when asked about the pitch on the game winning hit.

For the Norsemen, Lily Metsch took the loss allowing three runs on seven hits while striking out three. Eaton took the circle for the Wolf Pack and in the victory tossed a complete game, allowing two runs on two hits while fanning three.

With the victory, West Hills gains a leg up on Valhalla but barring any setbacks when these two teams meet again it will be for all the marbles when it comes to league and one contest not too miss.

HELIX 7, GRANITE HILLS 5 — In a game and result that will raise some eyebrows, the Helix Highlanders traveled to Granite Hills, Tuesday (Apr.21) and came away with the 7-5 victory in Grossmont Valley league play.

The Highlanders got on the board in the first inning thanks to a BRIANA REED leadoff walk, a single by CLARISA SMITH and an RBI single by DESTINI BULLOCK scoring Reed to take the early 1-0 lead. The Eagles answered with a run of their own as KAREN KREECH singled, HALLE KYLER doubled and VICTORIA HATHAWAY flew out to center scoring Kreech to tie the game at 1-1. Granite in the bottom of the second inning would take the lead 3-1 scoring two runs thanks to an RBI double by BRIELLE TYSELLING and an RBI triple by Kreech.

Helix not one to back down answered with a couple runs in the top of the third inning to tie the score at 3-3. Reed again led off with a walk, moved to second on the Smith grounder, Bullock doubled in Reed and moved to third on a wild pitch, and came in on MCKENZIE FLORES sacrifice fly.

Both teams went down in the fourth inning. With the game all knotted at 3-3 in the top of the fifth, the Highlanders were able to gain the lead for good as they pushed across four runs to lead 7-3. Reed led off again with a walk, Smith walked, Bullock followed with a single, Flores reached on a fielders choice. Coach Kowalski decided to bring in Freshman KENDI SWINTON to pinch hit with two on and only one down. She was able to come up big in the situation as she smashed an RBI single into left field. Helix was able to score what ended up being the two winning runs on a two run double by SILVANA DORNFELD.

The Eagles put up a run in the bottom of the fifth as Kyler scored to shorten the lead 7-4 and they would end up scoring another run in the bottom of the sixth as KATIE WALL scored on an RBI by Creech who reached on an error making the score 7-5. Granite in the bottom of the seventh would go down in order 1-2-3 to end the game.

For the Highlanders, SHAREENA LACHANCE gained the victory as she tossed four innings allowing three runs on six hits. Briana Reed would garner the save as she hurled the final three innings giving up two runs of which one was earned on two hits.

STEELE CANYON 7, EL CAPITAN 5 — Staying in tune with the theme of the day of close and exciting games, it was the Steele Canyon Cougars defeating the host El Capitan Vaqueros 7-5 in Grossmont Hills League action.

The Cougars jumped on the board in the second inning on a KENDRA BUCKLEY double, she would come in and score on a HANNAH DUDLEY RBI single to take the early 1-0 lead. However in the bottom of the second, the Vaqueros answered on RBI singles by GRACE BURKETT, ZANDRA RAGALE, and KELSEY HENZIE to take the lead 3-1.

In the top of the third and trailing, the Cougars looked to chip at the lead. ASHLEY TAVIZON singled and would later score as she stole home to cut the lead, 3-2. The Cougars would add a couple more runs in the fourth inning as Kendra Buckley doubled and would score on a passed ball, MAKAYLA MCCARTHY would single and move a couple of times to third on passed balls. She came into score on an El Capitan error. The Cougars now would lead by a score of 4-3.

El Capitan would shut down the Cougars in the top of the fifth and would actually re-take the lead 5-4 in the bottom of the inning. The Vaqueros would take the lead thanks to a walk by DANI PIMINTAL, single by GRACE BURKETT. Both would score on the double by KAYLA KRULL. Facing a one run deficit, Steele Canyon looked to either tie or re-take the lead in their half of the seventh.

Stepping to the plate was ELIZABETH SOLIS who so far was without a hit, she was able to come through with a single. Next up was MAKAYLA STROMENGER who took the offering and blasted a two run bomb to give the Cougars a 6-5 lead. They would tack on one more in the inning as GENTRY HOFFMAN would score to round out the scoring. Steele Canyon would retire the Vaqueros in the bottom of the seventh inning in order to end the game.

PATRICK HENRY 10, CHRISTIAN 0 — In Eastern League action, Tuesday (Apr.21) it was the battle of the Patriots as Patrick Henry took on host Christian and won a 10-0 (5 inning) shortened game.

In the second inning the Patrick Henry Patriots scored two runs, thanks to an RBI single by CASSIE VAN TIL scoring DANIELLE ROMERO. A single by MONTANA POTTS scored Van Til.

The very next inning saw Patrick Henry do the most damage as they poured in seven runs to lead 9-0. They would tack on their final run thanks to a monster of a solo homerun by Danielle Romero.

Pitching wise the Patriots would limit Christian to three hits as MADISON JAMES tossed two innings, gave up one hit and struck out four. Relieving James in the third inning, RUBY GONZALEZ would gain the victory as she went three innings, giving up two hits while fanning six.

GROSSMONT 14, MT MIGUEL 0 — In Grossmont Valley League action, Tuesday (Apr.21) the Grossmont Foothillers traveled to Mount Miguel and come away with the easy 14-0 victory in five innings.

In the first inning the Foothillers pretty much put the game away as they pushed across five runs. Leadoff hitter CHLOE CAMARERO (3-4, 3 RBI) doubled, DESTINY BACON singled to left, TAYLOR BAEZ (3-4, RBI) singled to left that scored Camarero, KAILEY DANIELS (3 RBI) singled also to left which scored both Bacon and Baez, LILI FLORES singled to left scoring Daniels and finally AMBER ALLMANN singled scoring Daniels.

The Foothillers would extend their lead with two runs in the second inning thanks to a leadoff double by KIRA ELLIOTT (3-4), she came in to score on the smashed triple to left center by Camarero who scored on a passed ball. Grossmont scored three more times in the fourth inning.

The fifth inning saw Grossmont finalize their scoring as Taylor Baez doubled, KATIE APPENZELLER singled, Kailey Daniels singled scoring Baez and finally KLARISSA ARREOLA singled scoring Appenzeller.

MONTE VISTA 19, EL CAJON VALLEY 1 (5 inn.) — In Grossmont Valley League action, the Monte Vista Monarchs traveled to El Cajon Valley to take on the Braves and cruised to the 19-1 (5 inning) victory, Tuesday (Apr.21).

Offensively the Monarchs were led by CYNTHIA VALENCIA who finished her day 4-4, which all were singles and JAYDE GOLDHAGEN 2-4 (3 RBI) of which included a single and a triple.

MIRA MESA 17, SERRA 0 — No information reported.

Bulldogs take down Cougars

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (4-21-15) — In non-league action, Monday (Apr. 20) the Ramona Bulldogs traveled to the East County to take on the host Steele Canyon Cougars and came away with the 10-1 victory.

Both teams started out evenly as neither scored in the first inning but in the top of the second inning the Bulldogs struck first with a run to lead 1-0 early on. Trailing by a run the Cougars looked to get on the board as KENDRA BUCKLEY laced a double but committed the second out as she was thrown out at third. Besides a walk by JENNA RITTER, who ended up at second base, that was as far as she was able to get.

The third inning saw the Bulldogs extend their lead even further as they pushed across five more runs to lead 6-0 and would score four more in the top of the fifth to lead 10-0. The Cougars would finally get on the board thanks to an error that allowed ASHLEY TAVIZON to reach and she would later come around to score. GENTRY HOFFMAN had the lone RBI for the Cougars.

PATRICK HENRY 5, OTAY RANCH 1 – Looking to rebound from their heartbreaking one run loss to Rancho Buena Vista, the No. 3 Patrick Henry Patriots traveled to the South Bay to take on a hungry Otay Ranch squad. The Patriots trailed early on but would put up five to take the contest 5-1.

The Mustangs looked to pull off the upset and actually held the Patriots scoreless in the top of the first inning. In the bottom of the first the Mustangs were able to push across a run thanks to a couple of singles to lead 1-0. However after being held scoreless in the second inning, the Patriots answered to tie the score as leadoff hitter HANNAH McEWEN singled, reached second and moved to third on an error. She then promptly took a gamble and stole home and was called safe, which tied the score 1-1.

The very next inning in the top of the fourth, leadoff hitter MADDIE BARRAZA jacked a solo homerun to give Patrick Henry the 2-1 lead. They would tack on another run in the fifth inning thanks to a single by SIERRA ALTMEYER who came around to score on the ripped RBI double by CHRISTIONA “CC” CACCAMISE to lead 3-1. In the sixth inning CASSIE VAN TIL singled and scored on a single by Hannah McEwen to lead 4-1 and they would tack on their final run in the seventh.

BONITA VISTA 12, GRANITE HILLS 2 – The Eagles of Granite hills traveled down to the South Bay to take on the No. 6 Bonita Vista Barons in non-league action.

Unfortunately the Barons would make short work on the Eagles as they won easily 12-2.

Dejavu all over again for the Patriots

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
ALLIED GARDENS (4-18-15) — A clash of two top programs took place Friday (Apr. 17) at Patrick Henry High. The No. 1 Patrick Henry High Patriots hosted the No. 7 Rancho Buena Vista Longhorns and for only the second time all year came up on the wrong side of the scoreboard 4-3.

The Patriots, after being held scoreless the first couple of innings, finally got on the board in the bottom of the third inning to take an early 1-0 lead. The leadoff hitter HANNAH McEWEN (2-4, 2R, SB) was able to lace a single and moved to second base on a groundout by SYDNEY JAMES. The next batter SIERRA ALTMEYER (2-4, 2 RBI, 2B) ripped a double that scored McEwen.

Both teams wouldn’t do anything in the fourth inning. Trailing by only a run the Longhorns were finally able to get to Patriots standout pitcher MADISON JAMES in the top of the fifth inning, scoring three runs to take a 3-1 lead.

However the Patriots were able to answer in the bottom of the fifth with a run of their own to pull within one 3-2 thanks to a hit by McEwen, who then stole second and came in to score on a base hit by Sierra Altmeyer. The Patriots in the bottom of the sixth inning finally were able to tie the score at 3-3 thanks to a base hit by CASSIE VAN TIL.

The score would remain tied and would actually go into extra innings, and in the top of the eighth the Longhorns broke through and put their final run on the board to lead 4-3.

In the bottom of the inning the Patriots were able to put a couple of runners on thanks to base hits by DANIELLE ROMERO and Cassie Van Til. Romero moved to third base on a sacrifice fly by Madison James and Van Til moved to second.

So with the tying run at third and the winning run at second, Hannah McEwen stepped to the plate and took a couple of pitches and faced a 2-2 count. The very next pitch however caught McEwen looking for the third strike and also the final out of the game.

With the win the Longhorns extend their winning streak to 3 games and with the loss comes to an end the 14-game winning streak by the Patriots. The Longhorns also will most definitely be moving in the polls as they accomplished what no other team has done all year and that is hand Patrick Henry a loss. Interestingly enough this loss for the Patriots, like their only other loss, comes at the hands of Rancho Buena Vista.

OLYMPIAN 5, VALHALLA 2 – In non-league action in El Cajon, Friday (Apr. 17) the No. 9 Valhalla Norsemen took on the Olympian Eagles from the South Bay and unfortunately dropped the contest by a score of 5-2.

In the opening inning the Eagles were able to get on the board first, putting a run up to take the early 1-0 lead. However that didn’t last as Valhalla answered in the bottom of the third inning with a run of their own to tie the score 1-1. The Norsemen would take the lead in the bottom of the fifth inning with a run to make the score 2-1.

Trailing in game and batting in the top of the sixth inning the Eagles pushed across another run to tie the score at 2-2. So going into the final frame tied, the Eagles came to bat. They were able to score three in the top of the inning thanks to a critical error by Valhalla that led to all three runs. By taking advantage of the error, the Eagles now led 5-2.

The Norsemen now trailing looked to get something going in the bottom half but unfortunately couldn’t and thus their 9-game winning streak was snapped.

CHRISTIAN 7, MISSION BAY 0 – In non-league action on Friday (Apr. 17) the Christian Patriots traveled to Mission Bay High and came away with a 7-0 victory over the Buccaneers.

In the victory the pitching of the Patriots came up big as ASHLEY CARTER hurled a complete game shutout, giving up two hits while fanning seven.

Besides the pitching the offense for the Patriots was in full force as well thanks to a multitude of players. COURTNEY SKJERVE went 2-3 and scored twice, SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA went 2-3 and scored twice, ANNA SHERBURNE went 2-3, smashed two doubles and had 2 RBI, SHANNON McMAHON went 1-4 and knocked in three runs.

HIGH TECH HIGH-SD 5, SERRA 3 (9 inn.) – In a non-league contest that had all the late inning drama it was the visiting High Tech High-San Diego Storm coming out on top against host Serra, Friday (Apr. 17) by a score of 5-3 in nine innings.

Both teams matched each other inning for inning including the fourth inning when both teams scored a run. In the top of the inning, High Tech–SD pushed across a run to take the early lead 1-0. The Conquistadors would answer in the bottom of the inning thanks to smashed triple by DARBY TIBBETTS who scored on a fly ball by VIVIAN TOMOVICH to tie the score at 1-1.

In the bottom of the next inning the Conquistadors took the lead thanks to a double and an error to make the score 2-1. The top of the sixth inning saw High Tech–SD tie the score at 2-2.

The contest would stay tied after seven innings and would go into extras with High Tech–SD scoring a run in the top of the eighth to take the 3-2 lead.

Serra however answered as AMBER WOZNIAK bombed a solo homerun over the center field fence to tie the score at 3-3.

With the score constantly being tied up or changing hands it was game of see who blinks first to gain the victory. In the top of the ninth inning, High Tech–SD took a two run lead on a two run single to lead 5-3. So the Conquistadors had one final shot to either tie it up or win the game. Unfortunately they would be cut short in the end.

On the day for the Conquistadors Amber Wozniak reached base three times including the solo homerun. She scored a run along with the RBI.

Martorana and Menard score the first two of what became blowout

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (4-17-15) — On Thursday (Apr.16) the Santana Sultans traveled to Lakeside to take on the El Capitan Vaqueros for the latest installment of their rivalry. It didn’t disappoint as the Sultans survived a bases loaded jam to win 8-4 in Grossmont Hills League play.

In the second inning the Sultans struck early to take the 2-0 lead as both CELINE MENARD and SOPHIA MARTORANA scored. However the lead didn’t last long as the Vaqueros answered with two runs of their own in the bottom of the inning. Both KELSEY HENZI and JESSICA BAUER came in to score to tie the game at 2-2.

With the score tied the Sultans in the third inning were able to break the tie by pushing across a couple of runs to take a 4-2 lead. Lead-off hitter SYDNEY VATES singled to left field and moved to second as MACKENZIE REYNOLDS reached on an error. Vates came around to score when Celine Menard hit into a fielder’s choice. Menard would move on a passed ball and move to third as TAYLOR BRIGGS singled which scored Menard.

Both teams pitching took shape over the next couple of inning and the offense wouldn’t show until the sixth inning when the Sultans erupted for four runs to take an 8-2 lead. For the Sultans, TAYLOR KUKUK, ERICA REID, CASSIDY MATTHIE and Sydney Vates all scored. Mackenzie Reynolds blasted a two run double that scored Erica Reid and Cassidy Matthie. In the bottom of the sixth inning the Vaqueros would push across a run as COURTNEY WILLIAMS came in on a single by ZANDRA RAGALE to make it 8-3.

The El Capitan Vaqueros in the bottom of the final frame made things really exciting as they scored a run to make it 8-4. With one out, KACI HOSTETLER was able to draw the walk, the next batter KIM GARCIA flied out. The Sultans looked to end the game but NICOLE VACARRO had other ideas as she was able to get ahold of one for a single that moved Hostetler to second. Hostetler moved to third on a wild pitch, Jessica Bauer walked, which moved Vacarro to second. Bases loaded and still two outs, the Vaqueros still had life and were able to knock in a run as COURTNEY WILLIAMS singled scoring Hostetler.

Next up was GRACE BURKETT who with one pitch could tie the game. She took the offering from Martorana and hit a grounder to second and now it was a footrace between the second baseman and Courtney Williams and according to the Umpire the second baseman beat Williams for the third and final out in a play that looked like Williams was safe.

Offensively for the Sultans it was Mackenzie Reynolds 2-4 (3 RBI), Taylor Briggs 1-3 (RBI), Celine Menard (RBI, 2 R).

For the Vaqueros it was Zandra Ragale 2-4 (RBI), Courtney Williams 2-4 (RBI, R), Kaci Hostetler 1-3 (R, 2B).

For the Sultans, Sophia Martorana took the circle and tossed a complete game for the victory. Both teams pounded out a combined 19 hits, with Santana tallying 9 and El Capitan with 10.

“It was a hard fought victory and we played good defense when needed to. It is always a battle when we play El Capitan,” said Santana coach JOHN FAILLA.

SERRA 8, CHRISTIAN 4 – In Eastern League action the Serra Conquistadors hosted the Christian Patriots, Thursday (Apr. 16) and won in dramatic fashion by a score of 8-4.

The Conquistadors got on the board first as they put up two runs in the bottom of the first inning to take an early 2-0 lead. AMBER WOZNIAK (2-4, 2R) laced a single and would score on an ASHLEY BLAKELY (2-4, RBI, 2R) smashed triple. Blakeley scored on an RBI single by TAYLOR CURLEY (3-3, RBI, 2 R).

In the top of the third inning the Patriots answered with two runs of their own to tie the score thanks to a two run double by SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA (1-4, 2 RBI, R). Serra would score two runs in the bottom of the fourth to break the tie.

Christian would score a run in the fifth to pull within 4-3 and would actually take the lead 5-4 in the top of the seventh inning. COURTNEY SKJERVE would double in ASHLEY CARTER and Skjerve would score via an error.

In the bottom of the seventh and trailing by a run the Conquistadors went to business as BROOKE RUSSELL led off with a walk, moved over to third base as she was sacrificed twice. Brooke Russell found her way home when Christian committed a passed ball to bring the score tied at 5-5. So with two outs, Amber Wozniak singled, Ashley Blakely singled, Taylor Curley walked to load the bases. TARYN JELLSION came to the plate and ripped a three run double scoring Wozniak, Blakely and Curley.

WEST HILLS 4, STEELE CANYON 3 – Some people would say that it’s better to be lucky than good sometimes, but others would say it’s better to be both. The latter was the case for the West Hills Wolf Pack as they traveled to Steele Canyon, Thursday (Apr. 16) for a Grossmont Hills League contest. It was the case because the Wolf Pack trailed for the entire game and was able to pull out the final inning in a come from behind victory 4-3.

The host Cougars looked to knock off the Wolf Pack and did damage early as they put up a couple of runs in the first inning. ELIZABETH SOLIS and MAKAYLA STROMENGER scored runs.

Both teams matched each other inning for inning, going scoreless until the final inning when the Wolf Pack and their bats finally woke up and did their damage.

BROOKE ROBERTS reached on an error, KENDALL MARINESI (2-4, R) laced a single, ALEX GUAY (2-3) walked which loaded the bases. Guay was lifted for a courtesy runner as MELISSA CASTILLO (1-1, 2 RBI, R) came up and ripped a two run double scoring both Roberts and Marinesi to tie the score. The Wolf Pack would score two more runs. SIERRA SCHLICHTING (RBI) helped out with a sacrifice bunt that scored a run.

The Cougars, who having led the entire game and now trailing 4-2 in the bottom of the seventh, were able to push across a run to pull within 4-3 but that was all they were able to as West Hills, despite allowing the Cougars to threaten thanks to a couple of errors, finally put things away.

The Cougars offensively were led by MAKAYALA McCARTHY (2-4, 2 RBI).

GROSSMONT 9, MONTE VISTA 0 – Looking to continue the momentum from the previous game the Grossmont Foothillers hosted the Monte Vista Monarchs, Thursday (Apr. 16) in a Grossmont Valley League contest and accomplished the task with a 9-0 victory.

Grossmont scored quickly in the bottom of the first inning as they pushed across a couple of runs to take the 2-0 lead thanks to a smashing two run double by TAYLOR BAEZ (3-4, 3 RBI) that scored both CHLOE CAMARERO (3-4, 2 RBI, 3 R) and DESTINY BACON (3-4, 2 R), both of whom had singled. The second inning was more of the same as the Foothillers scored six runs.

For Grossmont KLARISSA ARREOLA singled to left, KIRA ELLIOT reached on an infield single, Chloe Camarero brought in both Arreola and Elliot with a ripped double, Destiny Bacon singled to bring in Camarero, and Taylor Baez singled bringing in Bacon. After two innings of play it was 6-0 in favor of Grossmont.

The Foothillers would tack on a couple of more runs in the fourth inning to lead 8-0. Chloe Camarero came home on an error after she had singled in the inning, ALEXIS COLLINS singled and came home on a double by KATIE APPENZELLER. The final run for Grossmont would come in the fifth inning as LILI FLORES doubled to left field and came home on the single by Destiny Bacon.

In the circle for the Foothillers was CASSIDY DAVILA who hurled a 2 hitter while striking out 7 for the complete game victory.

For the Monarchs, CYNTHIA VALENCIA had two hits on the day.

GRANITE HILLS 28, MOUNT MIGUEL 3 - The No. 10 Granite Hills Eagles traveled to Spring Valley, Thursday (Apr. 16) to take on the Mount Miguel Matadors in a Grossmont Valley League contest and scored early and often in the 28-3 victory.

For the Matadors, STEPHANIE HERRERA laced an RBI single in the third inning and another one in the fifth inning to finish 2-3 (2 RBI).

Leading the way for the Eagles was CASSIDY SHEW who went 5-6 (5 RBI, 4 R), MEGAN ERICKSON 3-4 (RBI, 3 R), BRIELLE TYSELING 4-5 (2 RBI, 5 R) and KATIE DEWITT 2-4 (2 RBI, 3 R).

PATRICK HENRY 33, MORSE 6 – In Eastern League action, Thursday (Apr. 16) the No. 1 Patrick Henry Patriots hosted the Morse Tigers and came away with the easy 33-6 victory.

HELIX 7, EL CAJON VALLEY 0 (forfeit) – The Helix Highlanders traveled to El Cajon, Thursday (Apr. 16) to take on the Braves of El Cajon Valley. The Highlanders were awarded the victory with a score of 7-0 as the Braves forfeited the Grossmont Valley league contest.

Camarero smashes her first homer against Helix

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (4-16-15) — In opening day action of the Grossmont Valley League out in La Mesa the Grossmont Foothillers got off to a good start against the host Helix Highlanders with an 8-2 victory.

The Foothillers looked to get things going early with fireworks and boy did that happen as on a 2-1 pitch, CHLOE CAMARERO hammered a leadoff solo home run, her first ever over the left field fence to give Grossmont a 1-0 lead right off the bat. In the second inning the Foothillers were able to extend their lead as they plated two more runs to lead 3-0.

With one out MADDIE LINDSAY singled, KIRA ELLIOT singled and up came Camerero looking to do some more damage, she took the pitch and smashed a two run double scoring both Lindsay and Elliot to bring the score to 5-0 in favor of the Foothillers. A couple of inning later saw the Foothillers bat around and score five runs to round out their scoring to 8-0. Back to back singles by Lindsay and Elliot, a double by Camarero that scored both Lindsay and Elliot, another double by DESTINY BACON scoring Camarero, a double by TAYLOR BAEZ scoring Bacon and finally a double by ALEXIS COLLINS scoring Bacon and a single by KATIE APPENZELLER scoring Collins.

Grossmont pretty much through the first few innings set the tempo as Helix couldn’t get anything done offensively until the bottom of the sixth when they finally got on the board with a couple of runs. BRIANA REED led off with a walk, DESTINI BULLOCK doubled scoring Reed and MACKENZIE FLORES singled scoring Bullock.

CASSIDY DAVILA for Grossmont went the distance, tossing all seven innings for the complete game victory, gave up two runs, a walk and fanned three.

On the day Grossmont pounded out 14 hits and many contributed to the offensive output.

The big day belonged to Chloe Camarero who almost hit for the cycle just missing by a triple went 4-4 (5 RBI, 2 R, 1B, 2B, HR). When asked about the homerun, “It was a fastball and it was a good one and I got a hold of it and nailed it.” Others included Destiny Bacon 2-4 (RBI, R, 2B, 1B), Taylor Baez 2-3 (RBI, 2B), Alexis Collins (RBI).

The Foothillers in the victory showed that they are a team not to be overlooked and can jump on anyone at any time. “We played a good solid all-around game today” said Grossmont coach JERRY LERUD, and the scorebook would agree with this as the defense for Grossmont did its job as they helped out making the outs when necessary and not committing any errors and the bats came through when needed to.

Another feather in the cap for the victory by Grossmont was the fact that their 1-4 hitters set the tone as they combined to go 11-16 in the game.

PATRICK HENRY 6, SCRIPPS RANCH 4 — In a battle of top ten teams in the East County Sports poll, the #1 Patrick Henry Patriots hosted the #6 Scripps Ranch Falcons in Eastern League play and came away with the 6-4 victory, Tuesday (Apr.14).

The contest between these two teams this time around was quite different than their last meeting in the Falcon Fiesta finals when the Patriots blasted the Falcons 21-2. Still the results were the same.

The Falcons looked to reverse the previous results as they got on the board first in the top of the first with two runs to take the early 2-0 lead. However the Patriots answered with a run of their own in the bottom of the inning as HANNAH MCEWEN (run scored, RBI) led off with a walk and advanced on a couple of groundouts and scored on a wild pitch to cut the lead 2-1.

The Falcons would put another run across to lead 3-1 in the second. Just like the first inning the Patriots had an answer pushing across a couple of runs to tie the game 3-3. ANYA VANDERSIP (0-2, run scored) and MADDIE BARRAZA (1-3, run scored) both crossed the plate, with CASSIE VAN TIL (1-2, run scored, RBI) knocking in Vandersip and McEwen plating Barraza.

In the bottom of the fourth inning the Patriots finally pulled ahead for what would be good as they scored twice to take the 5-3 lead as both Cassie Van Til and MONTANA POTTS scored. They would score again in the fifth inning as CRISTIONA “CC” CACCAMISE rifled a leadoff double and promptly stole third and scored on a passed ball to make the score 6-3. The Falcons down by three runs entering the final frame were able to score a run to make it 6-4 but that was all she wrote as MADISON JAMES was able to end the game a couple of batters later.

On the day Madison “MJ” James went the distance tossing all 7 innings, gave up 4 runs on 10 hits, 0 walks, fanned 9.

SANTANA 2, STEELE CANYON 0 — The Santana Sultans hosted the Steele Canyon Cougars in opening day of Grossmont Hills League play out in Santee, Tuesday (Apr.14). In quite the contest it was the Sultans prevailing in the latter of the game by a score of 2-0.

In what turned out to be a game of pitching, neither team was able to get anything on the board until almost the end. Santana pitcher SOPHIA MARTORANA started strong as she tossed a perfect game through the first four innings before Steele Canyon finally got a hit. The Cougars were pretty much shut down until they threatened to score in the fifth but Martorana shut the threat down.

With the game scoreless and looking to possible go extra frames the Sultans in the bottom of the sixth inning decided otherwise. The inning didn’t start too well as the first couple of batters got out. So with two outs, SYDNEY VATES stepped to the plate and ripped a single to center. She then promptly swiped second and then third base. So still with two down and Vates at third MACKENZIE REYNOLDS continued her hitting from yesterday as she too ripped a single scoring Vates to make it 1-0. The next batter JORDAN TEEGARDIN smashed a double that scored Reynolds to give the Sultans a 2-0 lead.

On the day the Sultans collected five hits and played a good game all around. Sophia Martorana tossed a complete game shutout, giving up three hits, striking out two while walking none.

GRANITE HILLS 14, EL CAJON VALLEY 0 — The #10 Eagles in the East County Sports Top 10 poll hosted the Braves of El Cajon Valley in Grossmont Valley League play and easily won a 14-0 run ruled shortened contest, Tuesday (Apr.14).

Granite Hills as a team had a big day at the plate as they blasted multiple homeruns in the game. For the Eagles, VICTORIA HATHAWAY hammered 2 homeruns while reigning East County Sports Athlete of The Week HALLE KYLER continued her offensive streak blasting another homerun.

Taking the circle for the Eagles, NICOLE GLIKO went the distance and only gave up 2 hits on the day.

VALHALLA 6, EL CAPITAN 2 — In Grossmont Hills League action the #9 Norsemen in the East County Sports Top 10 poll hosted the El Capitan Vaqueros out in Rancho San Diego, Tuesday (Apr.14) and came away with the 6-2 victory.

The Norsemen in the bottom of the first inning got on the board right away as BRANDI KOHEL and MADISON LABSHERE both reached base, DANIELLE UY came to the plate and promptly blasted a three run dinger to give Valhalla a 3-0 lead. In the fifth inning Uy would do it again with an RBI single up the middle.

Other contributors for Valhalla included RACHEL SHELLSTROM out of the leadoff spot as she went 2-3 and ABIGAIL METSCH laced a two singles and an RBI in the sixth inning.

The Vaqueros finally got on the board in the seventh inning thanks to GRACE BURKETT (2-3, RBI) and ZANDRA RAGALE (2-3, RBI) who each an RBI.

For LILY METSCH of Valhalla who took the circle it was a special day as she gained her first career conference victory. On the day she tossed a complete game while scattering 6 hits over the contest and gave up the 2 runs which both came in the final frame. She also fanned 5 and walked 1 and hit a batter.

MONTE VISTA 15, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 — Out in Spring Valley, Tuesday (Apr.14) the Monte Vista Monarchs hosted the Mount Miguel Matadors in Grossmont Valley League play and gained the 15-0 shortened 5 inning victory.

The Monarchs set the temp early on as they pushed across 9 runs in the bottom of the first. They would finish their scoring in the bottom of the third inning as they scored 7 more runs to round out their scoring.

For the Monarchs offensively it was BRITNEY JACOBSON 3-3, and CYNTHIA VALENCIA 2-3 who had an extra base hit in the third inning.

In the circle, EMILY BODTKE tossed a complete game and struck out 7 in the process.

SERRA 19, MORSE 6 — The Serra Conquistadors pounded out 20 hits and scored early and often in the 19-6 shortened 5 inning Eastern League victory over the host Morse Tigers, Tuesday (Apr.14).

For the Conquistadors in the first inning an RBI single by AMBER WOZNIAK (3-3, 3 RBI, three runs scored), and VALERIE VALADEZ (4-4, 4 RBI, and a run scored) with her two run double, put Serra on top 3-0 early on. They would score fourteen more runs over the next couple of innings to really blow things open. ASHLEY BLAKELY, TAYLOR CURLEY as well as Valadez each had an RBI double in the second inning to go with the RBI single by BROOKE RUSSELL.

To go along with the dominant offense the pitching of DARBY TIBBETS who held the Tigers hitless over two innings gained the victory as she gave up no earned runs, issued no walks and struck out one. KYLIE BARTOLOME came in to relieve Tibbets and tossed the final nine outs to record the save.

MIRA MESA 10, CHRISTIAN 1, (7 Inn.) — The Christian High Patriots traveled to Mira Mesa, Tuesday (Apr.14) to take on the Marauders in Eastern League play. Unfortunately they ran into a buzz saw as they dropped the contest in 7 innings by a score of 10-1.

For the Patriots the only run came courtesy of SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA who went 1-3. Taking the circle for Christian was ASHLEY CARTER who also got the loss.

Emotional roller coaster for the Sultans

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-13-15) — In a non-league contest that resembled more of a roller coaster ride than a softball game the Santana Sultans hosted the Hilltop Lancer in non-league action, Monday (Apr.13) and unfortunately couldn’t overcome errors and ran out of gas in a heartbreaking 12-10 defeat.

The Sultans in the bottom of the first inning after retiring the Lancers looked to get things rolling and that they did. Lead-off hitter CASSIDY MATTHIE drew a walk, she stole second base and would come in on the RBI single by MACKENZIE REYNOLDS to give the Sultans a 1-0 lead. JORDIN TEEGARDIN would rack a double bringing in Reynolds making it 2-0 early on.

In the bottom of the bottom of the second inning the Sultans looked to extend their lead and did so as Both CELINE MENARD and SYDNEY BENJAMIN both singled and both would come around to score make it 4-0 in favor of Santana. Things looked really good for Santana as SOPHIA MARTORANA was looking good the first couple of innings but in the top of the third Hilltop was able to finally break through and score two runs to cut the lead in half 4-2. The Lancers would tack on a couple of more runs before a pitching change by the Sultans brought in LEXI CHAVARIN-MIRANDA. Unfortunately three more runs would score due to a couple of base hits and a walk along with an error brought the score now in the Lancers favor at 7-4.

In the top of the fifth the Lancers were able to take advantage of a couple of Sultan miscues to score another run to make it 8-4. Hilltop again in their half of the sixth was able to push across a couple of more runs to make it 10-4. Looking down and out the Sultans came up to bat in the bottom half of the sixth and looked like a completely different team as they created an offensive flurry scoring six runs to tie the score at 10-10. TAYLOR BRIGGS singled, TWYLA KUKUK reached on a fielders choice that moved Briggs to second, Celine Menard singled scoring Briggs to make it 10-5, Sydney Benjamin drew a walk, Cassidy Matthie doubled scoring Kukuk, Menard and Benjamin to make it 10-8. Still facing two outs and the now the tying run at the plate in Mackenzie Bennett, the Lancers looked to get out of the inning but Bennett had other ideas as she took the 2-1 pitch and launched a towering ball deep and over the left field fence for a two run blast to tie the score at 10-10. The Sultans bench came out of the dugout and completely mobbed Reynolds as she touched home plate as her shot breathed new life in Santana.

The Sultans looked to use the momentum they gained to carry them in the extra frames. With the score tied the game went into extra innings and into the eighth it went with Hilltop coming to bat. In the top of the inning the Lancers were able to get to Chavarin-Miranda as they led off with a double and would score on a single and would score again on another single to round out the scoring.

So now trailing by two runs the Sultans looked again to bring the magic. Things started off well as Twyla Kukuk led off with a walk and Celine Menard singled, she would be lifted for a pinch runner in ERICA REID. Twyla Kukuk moved to third base on the single. Sydney Benjamin sacrifice bunted Reid over to second base. A wild pitch by the Lancers saw Kukuk attempt to score but she was tagged out by the catcher. So now with two outs, Cassidy Matthie came to the plate and drew a walk. Mackenzie Reynolds who had earlier smashed a game tying dinger looked to do more damage but unfortunately didn’t get the chance to as Matthie attempted to steal second and was caught in a run down and eventually tagged out thus ending the game and any Sultan comeback.

The Sultans fought back valiantly and despite the errors had their opportunities to win the game. They showed they are a dangerous team capable of coming back and look to fight again in league.

MONTE VISTA 15, HOOVER 0 — The Monte Vista Monarchs took on the Hoover Cardinals in non-league action, Monday (Apr.13). The Monarchs came away with the easy 15-0 run ruled shortened victory after five innings.

The Hoover Cardinals played a defensive shift hoping to catch the Monarchs off guard and also to prevent balls from being hit to left field. Unfortunately this strategy didn’t as the Monarchs took full advantage of this. Both JADY GOLDHAGEN and MARIAH WHITEHEAD spurred the Monarch offense and drilled pitches to the gaps and were able to turn what would have been regular base hits into inside the park homeruns.

First ever East County Sports.com Softball Top 10

By The East County Sports.com Softball reporters
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-13-15) — For the first time in the 15 year history of East County Sports.com we are presenting a top 10.

Also recieving votes:
Rancho Bernardo (11-6-1), Mater Dei Catholic (13-5-1), West Hills (5-4), Otay Ranch (12-8),
Eastlake (8-6), Imperial (10-5-1), Carlsbad (8-6).

Jaguar classic coming to East El Cajon

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-12-15) — Granite Hills Eagles looked to complete a very impressive week with another victory. They looked to capture the Jaguar Classic championship as they traveled to Valley Center to take on the Bishops Knights, Saturday (Apr.11). The Eagles accomplished the task scraping together a nail biter of a victory 8-7.

Photo courtesy of Don Wall

The Eagles would be designated the home team for the finals so that gave Bishops the first opportunity of the game. The Knights took advantage of the opportunity as things started off bad for the Eagles as starting pitcher KAILA DEWITT walked the first batter. She was able to get the second batter to fly out but the third batter, SABRINA MORENO stepped to the plate and blasted a two run homer to put the Knights on top 2-0. The Eagles would get out of the inning without letting further damage occur.

With Bishops leading the Eagles looked to get things going and it looked good as leadoff hitter KAREN CREECH drew a walk, HALLE KYLER drew a walk so Creech moved to second. JESSIE LAPIERRE came up to the plate and laced a single that scored Creech to cut the lead to 2-1. That was all the Eagles would get as they were put down the next two batters. The third inning saw more trouble for the Eagles as the Knights scored three more times to make it 5-1. In the bottom of the third and trailing the Eagles answered with a run as Halle Kyler was able to score in the inning to cut the lead to 5-2.

Trailing and looking for a change Granite Hills Coach ERIN COYNE switched out Kaila Dewitt for Halle Kyler and moving Dewitt to shortstop. So after the change the Knights looked to add to their lead and were able to as they put a couple more runs on the board to lead 7-2 with both runs being charged to Kaila Dewitt.

So trailing by five runs and running out of opportunities the Eagles looked to go to work at cutting the deficit. Both Karen Creech and Halle Kyler reached on back to back errors so with no outs and runners on the Eagles were in excellent shape. They would be in excellent shape as VICTORIA HATHAWAY stepped to the plate and on 1-0 count took the pitch and absolutely just crushed the ball over the fence for a three run jack to cut the lead at 7-5. That was all the Eagles would get but it now made it a ballgame and gave them a chance going into the next frame.

Eagles pitcher Halle Kyler in the top of the sixth inning went all out and retired the Knights in order 1-2-3 via a couple of strikeouts and a groundout. Now the Eagles with only a couple more chances if it went seven innings looked to put runs on the board. Leadoff hitter BRIELLE TYSELLING reached on an error, KAILA MACK hit into a fielders choice. So with one out and a runner on first, Karen Kreech singled moving Mack to second, Halle Kyler flied out making it two outs. Now with two down, Victoria Hathaway who hit a homerun in the previous inning looked to for more and on the first pitch rifled a double that scored Kayla Mack to make it 7-6. The Eagles still down to the final out in the inning and with runners in scoring position looked to tie the game and in what ended up being the dramatic game winning hit, Jessie LaPierre sliced a 1-1 pitch for a single that scored both Karen Kreech and Victoria Hathaway to take the 8-7 lead.

The Eagles had clawed their way back from a big deficit to lead going into the top of the seventh inning. The Knights who had to be feel dejected had one opportunity but Kyler quickly got two outs. Things looked to be in favor of the Eagles but Kyler walked the next two batters and now with the tying run at second, Kyler did what she does best and struck out the next batter looking to end the game and capture the Jaguar Classic Championship.

Halle Kyler ended up with the victory after relieving Kaila Dewitt, she tossed three innings of one hit ball without giving up a run, walked two while fanning six. It was her second victory of the week as she beat West Hills a couple of days prior.

With the victory the Eagles now push their winning streak to five games and take the momentum into league starting next week.

LEAGUE PREVIEWS

Grossmont Hills

The Pack is back to defend its 2014 crown. Currently ranked sixth in the county, West Hills stands at just 4-2 on the season, but the Pack returns a lot of firepower from their 2013-2014 squad. Senior TESS EATON has collected two wins in the circle so far, posting a 0.89 ERA with 10 strikeouts while appearing in four games for West Hills. Junior KENDALL MARINESI has raked in eight RBI in the early going and Coach Applebaum’s girls look to get the league season off on the right foot as they face Steele Canyon in their first Hills’ encounter.

Valhalla looks to challenge West Hills for the league crown and is coming off a huge victory over Serra in the championship game of the Bucs Classic over the Easter break. Freshman ace LILY METSCH already has eight wins for the Norsemen with 60.2 innings to her credit. Metsch hasn’t been quiet at the dish either, collecting 10 hits on the season with 10 RBI and nine runs while hitting at a .333 clip. Senior KAYLIE HIPWELL is hitting an astonishing .593 on the season while another freshman star has been born in KENNEDY LABSHERE who sits at .432 with 17 RBI in 14 games so far.

Steele Canyon is off to a rough start, but looks to finish third in the Grossmont Hills this season. Junior KENDRA BUCKLEY and freshman MAKAYLA MCCARTHY have carried most of the load on the mound for the Cougars so far this season. Any help the duo can get will be a boost for the Cougars chances to compete with their crosstown rivals in league play. Lorena Klopp isn’t walking through the door for the Cougars, but if they can find another All American like they produced in Klopp or Samantha Beasley over the next season, things would be looking up.

Santana graduated eight seniors from its 2013-2014 Grossmont Valley Co-Champion team. Along with that went 103 innings and nine of the team’s thirteen wins from the pitchers spot, as well as more than 50% of the team’s RBIs from a season ago. Junior SYDNEY VATES has returned for the Sultans however, and is joined by rising freshman talent MACKENZIE BENNETT. Both Sultans have double digit RBI’s on the year and Vates has already crossed the plate 15 times.

El Capitan has already shown the balance of power shift in the Grossmont leagues, defeating Grossmont Valley’s Mount Miguel 26-0 while sitting as our predicted number five in their new home, the Grossmont Hills League. The Vaqueros have shown they can score in their wins, racking up 49 runs in their three victories. Something has to give for El Cap to push into fourth or third in league play. So far no pitcher has collected more than one win for the Vaqueros and Senior KELSEY HENZIE is the only individual to drive home more than ten runs (14). A possible bright spot for Lakeside’s pride is 13 of 14 players on the roster have collected an RBI this season.

Grossmont Valley

Granite Hills makes the move to the Valley and comes in as our pre-season champion. Coach ERIN COYNE’S Eagles are in an interesting spot in Division II this year. La Costa Canyon currently leads the D II power rankings, but Granite has collected a big win over Eastlake, who defeated LCC earlier in the year. A win over Mater Dei Catholic and a 13-3 pounding of Santana in cross league action in their last game has Granite seeing it’s potential as they roll into Valley play. KAILA DEWITT has been solid for the Eagles in the early going, including a complete game shutout in the Eagles 1-0 victory over Mater Dei.

Helix is our pick for second place in the Valley league, but at 12-4 on the season, the Highlanders are already starting to turn heads with a young team. Strength of schedule may be a hindrance for Helix though. With ten wins on the season, the Highlanders are still 16th in the Division III power rankings at the moment and have a very tough Serra team to contend with in division. Grossmont has also picked up some key victories and will have something to say about where the Scotties end up. Helix has picked up eleven of twelve wins from freshman pitchers BRIANA REED and SHAREENA LACHANCE, it would seem the future is bright in the circle for Highlander’s program. Scoring also hasn’t been a problem for Helix, with seven players crossing the plate 10 times or more so far this season. Junior DESTINI BULLOCK has continued her hot hitting, currently sitting at .492 on the year with 30 RBI and 4 HR.

Monte Vista has seen some ups and downs in their 2014-2015 campaign. A 5-7 loss to Serra is more impressive than it reads in a box score as Serra could jump back into the county’s top 10 at some point during the season. A 1-8 loss to San Diego High Tech seemed to be a big negative on the Monarch’s schedule as well, but High Tech has since moved to the number one spot in the Division IV power rankings where Monte Vista will have to compete come playoff time. SIERRA GOLDHAGEN has been getting things done for the Monarch’s early this season, both at the plate and on the base path. Goldhagen is 6-8 with two triples and a double in the Monarch’s last two games, both victories.

Mount Miguel has been tough to figure out early on. The Matadors have wins over El Cajon Valley, Foothills Christian and Mountain Empire in convincing fashion; however none of those teams are expected to compete for league titles. The Matadors also dropped their last game 5-15 to a Morse team that could be a force in Division IV where the Matadors reside this season. STEPHANIE HERRERA has each of the five wins that the Matadors have collected in the early going, she will need some support from at least one more solid performer to help Mount Miguel move up in the Valley and compete in Division IV. Mount Miguel does not display tons of power, senior CIERRA CONWRIGHT has the team’s lone home run on the year, but make no mistake, the Matadors can hit. Mount Miguel has plated 82 runs in nine games and is hitting .381 collectively. Conwright and Herrera are both hitting .462.

Grossmont may be the toughest team to figure out in the Valley, and may be as high as number three when all is said and done. A commanding win over Santana and recent victories over El Camino and Hilltop have the Foothillers playing good ball headed into league play. Grossmont is also competing in Division III this season with league foe Helix, so the Highlander, Foothiller matchups will have serious playoff implications for both schools. Grossmont has picked up four wins from sophomore CASSIDY DAVILA including a complete game shutout against El Camino in the Jaguar Classic. CARLY PEARAON, DESTINY BACON and ALEXIS COLLINS have been among the standouts at the plate for Grossmont.

El Cajon Valley started the season 2-0 for the first time since 2010-2011. Since then the Braves have played just five times, winning one additional game. There’s a tough road ahead with Valhalla and a double dose of Granite Hills on slate for the Braves. SAVANNAH SOBOTKA has shown promise as a legitimate ace for El Cajon Valley, striking out 27 batters over the Braves first two wins of the season. The Braves big test now will be playing a consistent schedule that includes at least two games per week the remainder of the way and three games in three days 4/14-4/16.

Eastern League Most Intriguing Race?

First year Head Coach STEVE MINER is not a rookie in any logical sense of the word. With twenty years of High School coaching experience as well as playing fast pitch at the highest levels of competition himself, Miner built a pretty good resume for himself before taking over at the helm for Patrick Henry. This doesn’t even take into account the fact that Miner spent the last seven years on the bench as an assistant coach at San Diego State University.

Miner now coaches the number one softball program in San Diego county, but he isn’t allowing his team to get too far ahead of itself just yet. “We’ve earned our ranking at this point, we’ve played really good ball, but we’re half way through the season and we’re not anywhere close to where we want to be come playoff time” Miner stated, when asked about his team’s new #1 status.

When asked how he will keep his Patrick Henry roster grounded in lieu of their recent status, Miner had some common sense tactics in mind, “we’re going to focus on practicing hard and not getting lackadaisical in practice, so that we don’t get lackadaisical in games.” “I’m hoping that the experience I bring motivates the team, that they can see that what I bring can help them be successful.”

Successful is something Patrick Henry has certainly been so far in their 12-1 start. The Patriots have five hitters who are batting over .400, SIERRA ALTMEYER (.600), CASSIE VAN TIL (.481), CRISTIONA CACCAMISE (.476), HANNAH MCEWEN (.473) and ANYA VANDERSIP (.432).

The Patriots also have five players who have already committed to play ball at the next level. Seniors SYDNEY JAMES and Sierra Altmeyer will be headed to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and the University of California at Santa Barbara in the fall. Three Patriot members of the class of 2017 have already committed as well. MADION JAMES is slated to become a Buckeye at The Ohio State University, Caccamise is committed to LSU and McEwen is slated to join the Aztec ranks at SDSU.

In addition to statistical prowess, Miner praised Senior Altmeyer, “She’s an awesome girl, team captain and leader on the field.” A .600 average and four home runs on the season probably don’t hurt. “Cassie Van Til is another player who has been solid for us, just very consistent.” Then there’s Madison “MJ” James, the team’s ace who has racked up 101 K’s in 58 innings so far this season.

Though East County Sports has slated Serra as the runner up in the Eastern League, Miner has his eyes on current #6 Scripps Ranch. “We haven’t seen Serra yet, but when Scripps has their number one (MAKAYLA MARTIN) on the mound, they are very tough.” “We got their number two (ALISON PETTY) in the Falcon Fiesta Championship and we hit her pretty good, but they are very tough when they have Martin out there.”

Scripps Ranch will have a lot to say about Serra’s tab as the number two team in the Eastern League as play starts this week. All three teams will battle throughout Eastern League play, but Serra is competing in Division III while Patrick Henry and Scripps Ranch are both Division I teams, eligible for Open Division play this season.

The number two, number three debate in the Eastern League was our most difficult decision. Serra comes away as the pick, but Scripps Ranch will be entertaining thoughts of taking not only the number two, but the number one spot in the Eastern as well. Serra is 14-3-1 on the season with their most recent loss coming at the hands of a very good Valhalla team in the championship game of the Bucs Classic. The Q’s have a combined 12 wins from pitchers DARBY TIBBETTS and MEGAN POOLE and most teams will need an additional ace to compete deep into the post season. At the plate, junior AMBER WOZNIAK has already cleared the fence four times for Serra and leads the team with 19 RBI. Look for the splitting of innings between Poole and Tibbetts to be a big factor for the Conquistadors moving forward.

Scripps Ranch is on the outside looking in at two teams it knows it can compete with on its best day. Serra and Scripps will meet for the first time on Thursday April 23 at Serra. That game will be key in determining pecking order in the Eastern. The Falcons will already have a league game against Patrick Henry under their belts by then and we can assume that MAKAYLA MARTIN will probably make an appearance in the circle for the Falcons as they try to avenge a 2-21 defeat the Patriots handed them during Spring Break. Freshman DELANEY KELLY has provided some spark for the Falcons, driving in 16 runs so far, one behind team leader Martin who has 17 RBI. A 5-4 victory over West Hills this past week also showed that the No. 8 Falcons have to plans to cede control of the Eastern league to the Q's or Patriots.

4th – Christian High is 9-6 and currently seeded at number two in the Division IV power rankings behind High Tech San Diego. The Patriots and Mira Mesa both have wins over Grossmont Valley League favorite Granite Hills and it appears that Christian may compete with both the Marauders and Tigers for the fourth position in the Eastern League. ANNA SHERBURNE has already displayed her power for the Patriots, going 4-5 with 6 RBI, including a grand slam over the Patriot’s previous two games. GABBY BRABOWSKI has been solid for Christian in the circle, collecting a complete game victory recently against Granite Hills.

Bartolome enjoyed her time at the beach on Friday

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
IMPERIAL BEACH (4-11-15) — The Serra Conquistadors traveled to Imperial Beach, Friday (Apr.10) in non-league action to take on the Mar Vista Mariners and came away with the easy 18-2 victory.

Serra through the first three innings were able to up seven runs and never looked back. Both ASHLEY BLAKELY and DARBY TIBBETTS each had an RBI single in the first two innings. KYLIE BARTOLOME did damage as well as she was able to pile up three RBI on three hits. She nailed a single in the third and smashed another in the sixth along with a double in the inning.

The Conquistadors pushed across five runs in the third inning as a single by TAYLOR CURLEY brought home VIVIAN TOMOVICH. Ashley Blakely would also score as she came home on the single by ALYSA MCGUIRE.

The sixth inning was full of offensive fireworks for Serra as they racked up 10 runs to end the game. BRITTANY WALK would come in and score via a ground out and a rifled double by Bartolome would bring home VIVIAN DAVIS.

It was a duo in the circle for the Conquistadors as MEGAN POOLE got the victory as she went two innings, gave up no runs on no hits, no walks and fanned 6. Kylie Bartolome tossed 4 innings, got the save as she gave two runs as one was earned on six hits while walking one and striking out five on the day.

PATRICK HENRY 10, RAMONA 0 — Ho Hum just another day at the softball field for Patrick Henry as they hosted the Ramona Bulldogs in non-league play, Friday (Apr. 10) and again posted another shutout 10-0 in a shortened five innings due to the run rule.

For the first couple of innings the No. 1 Patriots were actually held scoreless but that would end in the third inning as they scored three runs. HANNAH MCEWEN with one out singled, she stole second base, and would come around on the booming triple by SYDNEY JAMES to make it 1-0. The next batter SIERRA ALTMEYER grounded out to the shortstop but that scored James to make it 2-0. CRISTIONA CACCAMISE nailed a single and she would come around home a couple of batters later as MADDIE BARRAZA laced a single to round out the scoring.

The Patriots would score three more times in the fourth inning to make it 6-0 and in the fifth inning they punched across four more runs to finalize the scoring and end the game. The scoring came about thanks to all singles.

Taking the circle for the Patriots was MADISON “MJ” JAMES who went the distance for the victory. She gave up zero runs on two hits, walked one and fanned six. James now with the second consecutive shut-out pushes her consecutive scoreless streak to 13 innings. It has been since the third inning of the Falcon Fiesta tournament against Scripps Ranch since a run has been scored upon James. Also the Patriots with the victory now push their winning streak to 12 games and have not lost a game in almost a month when they lost 4-1 to RBV in the Kit Carson Cougar Classic.

SWEETWATER 8, MONTE VISTA 6 — The Monarchs of Monte Vista hosted the Red Devils of Sweetwater in non-league action, Friday (Apr. 10) out in Spring Valley. Unfortunately the Monarchs came out on the short end 8-6.

Despite putting up six runs against the Red Devils the Monarch defense didn’t help out much as they committed too many errors which the Red Devils took advantage of and pulled out the victory.

LINCOLN 16, MOUNT MIGUEL 8 — Despite having the early lead the Matadors couldn’t hold on as they lost a non-league contest at Lincoln High versus the Lincoln Hornets on Friday (Apr.9) by a score of 16-8.

Things looked pretty good for the Matadors early on as they scored five runs in the first couple of innings to lead 5-0 early on. However things unraveled in the bottom of the second inning as the Hornets score eight runs and would score four more in the bottom of the third to make it 12-6. The Matadors would tack on single runs in the fourth and sixth innings to round out their scoring.

On the day DEANNA HERNANDEZ had two hits while CIERRA CONWRIGHT posted two RBI. In the loss Matador pitcher STEPHANIE HERRERA tallied five strikeouts.

Is this what a Grossmont League title matchup would look like?

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-10-15) — In a battle of the two teams picked by this publication to win their respective sides of league the Granite Hills Eagles traveled to Santee, Thursday (Apr. 9) to take on the No. 9 West Hills Wolfpack and came away with the gut wrenching 1-0 victory.

The Eagles in the second inning looked to get on the board because as if the first inning was of any indication runs would be hard to come by. KAILA DEWITT with one out looked to get on base and was able to as she nailed a double, KATIE WALL took a 1-1 pitch and laced an RBI single to put the Eagles in front 1-0.

Granite Hills looked to put another run on the board in the top of the fourth inning as JESSIE LAPIERRE led off with a double and moved to third on a ground out. That would be the farthest she would get as Wolf Pack pitcher TESS EATON was up to the challenge and got out of the jam via groundouts.

Starting in the circle for the Eagles was HALLE KYLER and she did her darndest to make that run hold up. It wouldn’t be until the bottom of the fourth inning that the Wolf Pack would put up their first threat as they were able to draw a couple of walks by BROOKE ROBERTS and ALEX GUY. With runners on first and second and only one out things looked good for West Hills but Kyler was able to end the inning as she struck out the last two batters.

The Eagles would go down in the fifth inning and other than drawing another walk the Wolf Pack would do the same. The top of the sixth saw the Eagles go down in order. In the bottom of the sixth the Wolf Pack again looked to get things going as with one out KENDALL MARINESI singled but Halle Kyler would retire the next two West Hills batters.

The final frame would end up being one of the most exciting and heart pounding innings. In the top half a lead-off single by CASSIDY SHEW put the Eagles in business but unfortunately wouldn’t amount to anything else as Tess Eaton retired the next three batters in order to end the top of the inning. The Wolf Pack who are no strangers to last inning heroics as they won a couple of games in the Kit Carson tournament in this fashion looked to do the same again.

Things looked really good for the Wolf Pack as lead-off hitter MELISSA CASTILLO rifled a triple down the right field line. So with no outs and the tying run at third base, NIKKI LEGGATE stepped to the plate. She took the 2-2 pitch and hit a rocket just to the right of second base that looked like it was going to get through but Eagles second baseman BRIELLE TYSELING had other ideas as she made a spectacular lunging catch that had everyone in the stands in awe and cheer on the Granite Hills side and heartbreak on the West Hills side.

Now despite there being only one down things still looked good for West Hills as they only needed either a base hit or long sacrifice fly. However Hallie Kyler calm and cool as can all be was able to strike out the next batter SYDNEY CRAVEN, she did however walk SIERRA SCHLICTING so with runners on first and third and now two outs it was all up to MEGHAN FISHER but unfortunately she went down looking thus ending the game.

For West Hills, Tess Eaton took the hard luck loss as she tossed all seven innings, giving up five hits, a run which was earned while striking out three. On the other side for Granite Hills it was Halle Kyler who made the most of that one run by making it stand as she went the distance as well. She tossed all 7 innings, giving up 2 hits, no runs, walked five while fanning 11.

VALHALLA 13, EL CAJON VALLEY 2 — The Norsemen traveled to El Cajon on Thursday (Apr. 9) to take on the Braves in non-league action and were able to handle things easily 13-2.

Valhalla pretty much put things away in the first two innings of a five inning shortened game called due to run rule as they scored 11 runs in the first two innings. They would put up runs in the fourth and fifth inning to round out the scoring. The Braves were able to put up a couple of runs in the bottom of the second inning. Both runs for the Braves were unearned.

BRANDI KOHEL for Valhalla was one hit short of hitting for the cycle as she went 3-4, which included a single, double and a triple. She also had four RBIs and two runs scored on the day. KENNEDY LABSHERE had a nice day as well as she had a double and a triple to go with her 2 runs scored and an RBI.

Gaining the pitching victory for Valhalla was DANIELLE UY who fanned three and improved her record to 2-0 on the season.

OTAY RANCH 6, EL CAPITAN 5 — The El Capitan Vaqueros traveled down to the South Bay on Thursday (Apr.9) to take on the Mustangs of Otay Ranch but unfortunately dropped a close one 6-5.

The second inning saw the Vaqueros get on the board first as KACI HOSTETLER was able to get on base and come around to score thanks to a Mustang error to lead 1-0. Unfortunately that would only last until the bottom of the inning as the Mustangs tied the score at 1-1.

The pitching for both teams would take over until the top of the fifth inning when the Vaqueros put up a four spot to lead 5-1. GRACE BURKETT would lead off with a walk, COURTNEY WILLIAMS would reach on an error and Burkett would advance to second base, KAYLA KRUEL would draw a walk which would advance the runners. The Vaqueros with one out would take advantage as Kaci Hostetler singled to center scoring Burkett, KIM GARCIA rifled a double scoring both Williams and Kruel. The final run of the inning for the Vaqueros came when Hostetler came home. The Mustangs finally got out of the inning.

The Vaqueros with the four run lead looked in good shape but unfortunately couldn’t hold the lead as the Mustangs answered with three runs of their own to cut the lead to 5-4. El Capitan wouldn’t do anything in the next couple of innings and in the bottom part of the seventh the Mustangs thanks to two runs took the lead and ended the game.

ESCONDIDO 6, SANTANA 2 — The Santana Sultans traveled to the North County to Escondido, Thursday (Apr.9) to take on the Escondido Cougars and unfortunately dropped the contest 6-2.

The Cougars got on the board first scoring in the first inning to take the early lead 1-0. Both teams would match each other inning for inning until the fourth when both teams scored runs.

In the top of the fourth inning the Sultans finally got on the board to tie the game at 1-1. CASSIDY MATTHIE led things off with a single, MACKENZIE BENNETT also singled. JORDAN TEEGARDIN with two outs was able to drive in Matthie with a single. However the tie would only last until the bottom of the inning as the Cougars pushed across five runs to lead and round out their scoring 6-1.

Santana would put up another run in the top of the sixth to finalize the scoring. The Sultans would get on the board with an RBI fielders choice by TWYLA KUKUK that scored ERICA REID.

Offensively on the day for the Sultans, Cassidy Matthie had two hits, Mackenzie Bennett also had two hits and Jordan Teegardin went 3-3 and an RBI.

Rankings hold serve

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-9-15) — In a clash of top ten programs according to media polls, the No. 6 Scripps Ranch Falcons traveled to Santee, Wednesday (Apr. 8) to take on the No. 9 West Hills Wolfpack in non-league action and in an entertaining contest pulled out the 5-4 victory.

Looking like a totally different team than the one that was blasted by Patrick Henry, the Falcons struck first as they scored a run in the top of the first inning thanks to an RBI single by LEXI OSOWSKI. West Hills threatened to tie the game in the bottom of the second inning but were unable to do anything despite having runners on second and third.

The Falcons pushed across another run in the top of the third inning to make the score 2-0. A double by MAKAYLA MARTIN, she would come around on the single by KYLEE BROWN. They would punch two more runs on the board in the top of the fourth inning to lead 4-0. The Falcons would tack on another run in the fifth.

The Wolf Pack facing a deficit looked to get back in the game in the bottom of the fifth inning and finally put something together. Thanks to three runs they now only trailed 5-3. For the Pack, CAELI GIBBS walked, BROOKE ROBERTS singled, KENDALL MARINESI doubled to bring in a couple of runs due to the right fielder bobbling the ball, and KELCI ELLIS-ALVAREZ singled bringing in another run. Now the Wolfpack were in business as they only trailed by two runs. The Falcons finally got out of the inning when PAIGE BOWLER grounded to the shortstop and was thrown out at first base.

West Hills looked to do some damage in the sixth inning as the first two batters, RYLEIGH DOBYNS and SYDNEY CRAVEN both reached on errors by the Falcon third baseman. Now with runners in scoring position the Wolf Pack looked in good shape but unfortunately Makayla Martin had other ideas striking out MOANA PISIA and Caeli Gibbs and getting Brooke Roberts to ground out to end the inning.

The Falcons were not able to do anything in the top of the seventh inning and took their two run lead to bottom half. Now facing their last opportunity the Wolf Pack looked to rally in the bottom of the seventh. The leadoff hitter NIKKI LEGGATE grounded out for the first out of the inning. Next up for West Hills, ALEX GUAY who came into the at-bat 0-3 looked to light a spark and did even if temporarily as she absolutely crushed a solo bomb to centerfield to bring West Hills within a run at 5-4. Unfortunately that was the closest they would get as the next two batters grounded out to end the game.

On the day the Wolf Pack could only accumulate five hits against the Falcons. Offensively they were led by Kendall Marinesi 1-2 (RBI, R), Brooke Roberts 2-4 (R), Alex Guay 1-4 (HR, RBI, R) and Kelci Ellis-Alvarez 1-3 (RBI).

Despite the loss the Wolf Pack will gain from it as they will benefit in the power rankings system as Scripps Ranch will surely finish with a decent record at the end of the season. Another benefit is that these two teams might possibly meet again in the playoffs as they are both Division One schools.

Patrick Henry 10, University City 0 — The Patrick Henry Patriots wasted little time on Wednesday (Apr.8) showing why they are the No. 1 team in the county as they blasted University City 10-0.

The newly No. 1 Patriots scored first in the bottom of the first inning as they pushed across three runs without the benefit of a hit. Thanks to multiple walks and a couple hit batters and a stolen base along with a passed ball the Patriots led 3-0.

In the second inning the Patriots scored again thanks to a SYDNEY JAMES single, she moved to second on a wild pitch and would come around on the double by CRISTIONA CACCAMISE to make it 4-0. Patrick Henry would extend their lead in the bottom of the third inning with two more runs to make it 6-0 and two more in the fourth to push the lead to 8-0.

They would end up scoring a couple more runs in the sixth inning to round out the scoring as CASSIE VAN TIL would do damage with her double.

As usual MADISON “MJ” JAMES was in the circle and she didn’t disappoint as she completely dominated University City by allowing only one hit in the complete game victory, a single in the second inning. She fanned 10 while mowing down the Centurions via groundball outs the entire game.

HELIX 13, MADISON 7 — The Helix Highlanders hosted the Mar Vista Mariners, Wednesday (Apr.8) and came away with the 13-7 victory.

It looked like it was going to be a runaway victory for the Highlanders as they were able to put up ten runs through the first two innings of play but the Mariners had other ideas. Helix was able to shut down the Mariners through the first three innings and all of a sudden the bats of the Mariners came alive and scored three runs to make the score 10-3.

The Mariners would make the game more interesting with a run in the top of the fifth and three in the sixth inning to make the score 10-7. However Helix would push across three insurance runs in the bottom of the sixth to round out the scoring and shut the Mariners down in the top of the seventh inning for the victory.

For the Highlanders in the circle, BRIANA REED tossed 5 2/3 innings for the victory. She gave up 7 runs of which all were earned. SHAREENA LACHANCE came in relief and tossed 1 2/3 innings of shutout ball for the save.

Offensively the Highlanders were led by DESTINI BULLOCK 4-4 (2 RBI, 3 R), KENDI SWINTON 2-3 (2 RBI, 2 R), and MCKENZIE FLORES 2-4 (RBI, R).

Kruel and Vasquez lead the way for Vaqueros

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (4-8-15) — In non-league action out in Lakeside, Tuesday (Apr. 7) the El Capitan Vaqueros were able to take care of business early on against the El Cajon Valley Braves by a score of 18-1.

Despite a run in the top of the first inning by the Braves, the Vaqueros were not fazed as they promptly tied things up and in the second inning opened the scoring with eight runs. They scored nine more over the next couple of innings to really put the game away for the run rule victory.

For the Vaqueros it was multiple players contributing including KAYLA KRUEL 3-4 (5 RBI, 2 R, 2B, 3B, 1B) only missing the cycle by a homerun; AMANDA VASQUEZ 2-4 (3 RBI, 3 R, SB); RIHANNA FISHER who drew a walk in the second inning and came around to score; and GRACE BURKETT 2-4 (2 RBI, 4 R, 2B, 2 SB).

Besides the offense the pitching also helped as well as ELENA LEDDON went the five innings for the victory. She struck out six while only giving up two hits and also a run, which was earned.

VALHALLA 14, MOUNT MIGUEL 1 (5 inn.) — In non-league action, Tuesday (Apr. 7) the Valhalla Norsemen hosted the Mount Miguel Matadors and never looked back in the shortened five inning contest 14-1.

The Matadors struck first in the second inning with a run to take the early lead. The leadoff hitter was hit by a pitch, the second batter drew a walk. So with runners on first and second with no outs, the third batter hit a chopper that LILY METSCH tried to field but the ball glanced off her glove and right to the shortstop.

Deciding for the easy out the shortstop tagged second while the batter was safe on a fielder’s choice. The Matador runner who was originally at second reached third and realized that no one was paying attention to her so she decided to race home. It wasn’t until the Matador runner was close to home that the Norseman fielder realized to throw home. When she did it was too late and thrown high, resulting in an error which allowed the hitter to move to second base. Without any further damage the Norsemen were able to finally get out of the inning.

For the Norsemen in the third inning they decided to make a pitching change and bring in TORI BASSETTE and move Lily Metsch into the field. Bassette was able to put the Matadors down quietly.

The bats for the Norsemen didn’t officially wake up until the bottom of the third inning as they trailed 1-0. In the third inning they scorched the Matador pitching for seven runs that included a two-run jack by ABIGAIL METSCH. The homerun was her fourth on the season. Valhalla would repeat the offensive output of the third inning with seven more runs to round out the scoring at 14-1.

Mount Miguel looked to finally get on the board in the fifth inning but was squelched as the Matador batter hit a soft line drive but Abigail Metsch had other ideas as she ran, making a Sportscenter type play, diving and catching the ball which started a double play.

For the Norsemen besides the two-run homer by Abigail Metsch, LADY SARA FEDERICO went 2-2 (2 RBI, 2 R, BB).

Pitching wise the duo of Lily Metsch and Tori Bassette combined for the no-hit shutout. Lily Metsch tossed two innings, gave up a run which was earned, walked one while striking out two. Bassette came in and tossed three innings of scoreless relief and faced the minimum nine batters and picked up the victory which is her third of the season all while striking out three batters.

GRANITE HILLS 13, SANTANA 3 (5 inn.) — In non-league action Tuesday (Apr. 7) the Granite Hills Eagles took on the Santana Sultans and were able to gain the five inning victory 13-3.

Things got going early for the Eagles as they pounced for five runs in the bottom of the first inning. KAREN CREECH led off by getting hit by a pitch, HALLE KYLER drilled an RBI double, and the next two batters would get outs. So with two down the Sultans looked to get out of the inning but the downpour continued as CASSIDY SHEW drew a walk, KAILA DeWITT nailed a two run single and KATIE WALL would finish it out with a two run double to make it 5-0.

In the second inning the Eagles were able to extend their lead to 7-0 thanks to an RBI double by Kyler and an RBI single by VICTORIA HATHAWAY. The Sultans facing a tough task looked to comeback and were able to get on board thanks to a booming two run homer by SYDNEY VATES that scored both her and CASSIDY MATTHIE who had reached on an error. Now the lead was 7-2 still in favor of the Eagles.

The Eagles got out of the inning without any further damage and actually pushed across another run in the bottom of the third to lead 8-2. The Sultans went down quietly in the fourth but the Eagles made some more noise as they scored two more runs to make it 10-2. Both Hathaway whose double and DeWitt with her single had a hand in knocking in the runs.

Now in the top of the fifth inning and Vates leading off you would think that a walk would be in order, but no. Working the count in her favor 2-1 she took the very next pitch and jacked it for her second homerun of the day. This time it was only a solo shot. The Eagles would tack on three more runs in the fifth inning to end the game thanks to another RBI double from Hathaway, an RBI single by RILEY JO AGERBEEK and an RBI single by Shew.

In the circle for the Eagles was NICOLE GLIKO who tossed a complete game, giving up three runs of which two were earned on 8 hits while striking out four.

WEST HILLS 16, GROSSMONT 1 — The visiting West Hills Wolf Pack showed why they are ranked in the top ten of the county according to media polls on Tuesday (Apr. 7) as they dominated the host Grossmont Foothillers 16-1 in non-league action.

The score was a close one as things looked pretty even through the first couple of innings as it was only 2-1 in favor of West Hills. However that would come to a halt in the top of the third inning as the Wolf Pack opened the offense as they batted around, pushing across eight runs while tallying five hits in the process. The inning was highlighted by the bomb of a homerun by KENDALL MARINESI, the two run single by ALEX GUAY, and the three run triple by SIERRA SCHLICHTING.

The scoring didn’t end there as West Hills tacked on another run in the top of the fourth and put five more on the board in the fifth inning to round out the scoring.

For the Wolf Pack it was an all around day as many contributed. Besides Marinesi’s homerun, she also scored three times as well. Besides taking the circle, MIRANDA GROVER showed what she could do with a bat as she finished 3-4 (4 RBI, R, 2B) and MOANA PISIA banged a triple and scored three times.

For the Wolf Pack it wasn’t just the hitting that was dominant but also the pitching as Grover went the full five innings for her first victory of the season.

HELIX 11, MADISON 5 — The Helix Highlanders traveled to Madison High for a non-league contest, Tuesday (Apr. 7) and were able to gain the come from behind victory 11-5.

Early on the Madison Warhawks jumped out to a 3-0 lead as they got to SHAREENA LaCHANCE. However in the fourth inning the Highlanders were able to take control of the game as they pushed across six runs of their own. Leading things for the Highlanders in the inning was DESTINI BULLOCK who rifled a double and would come in on the single by MCKENZIE FLORES. MICHELLE HIGUERA helped cut the lead as she singled in two and BRIANA REED smashed a two run triple.

Things were going the Highlanders’ way until the fifth inning when Madison tried to make a comeback by scoring two runs to make it 6-5, but the Highlanders put things away with five runs in the sixth inning, including VICTORIA CYMAN’s two run single and also Bullock who ripped a two run single to finish the scoring.

Although it was a little shaky for LaChance she was able to gain the victory tossing seven innings, giving up five runs on nine hits while striking out three.

Serra blows Mission Bay out, comes up short in final

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
MISSION BAY (4-5-15) — The semi-finals of the Bucs Classic saw the Serra Conquistadors score a plenty and take care of business in the run rule 12-0 victory over the Mission Bay Buccaneers on Saturday (Apr. 4).

For the Conquistadors they were able to lead early on in the second inning thanks to a monster solo blast that hit the tennis court fence by ASHLEY BLAKELY to give Mission Bay a 1-0 lead. The third inning it was a two run crush by AMBER WOZNIAK that would extend their lead to 3-0.

In the fourth the Conquistadors increased their lead as they pushed across four runs. DARBY TIBBETTS doubled, bringing home both VALARIE VALADEZ and BROOKE RUSSELL. This would be followed by a booming double by VIVIAN TOMOVICH to right field that scored Tibbetts.

Serra would push across five more runs in their half of the fifth inning thanks to four hits in the inning. On the day Serra pounded out 11 hits including the 2-3 by Blakely who had the homerun and 2 RBI and a run scored, also Tibbetts 3-4, with a double, two RBI and three runs scored.

Pitching wise Vivian Tomovich went the full five innings, giving up five hits, while striking out four.

VALHALLA 8, SERRA 6 (8 inn.) — In a wild championship game of the Bucs Classic the Valhalla Norsemen, who blew a lead in the last inning, came back to gain the 8-6 victory in the eighth inning to claim the tournament championship.

The Valhalla Norseman, Champions of the Bucs Classic

The offensive fireworks started early as Serra scored two runs in their half of the first inning thanks to a two run bomb by VIVIAN TOMOVICH to lead 2-0 early.

However that lead wouldn’t last as Valhalla came back in the second inning thanks to a single by VICTORIA VILLEGAS, she would move up as LADY SARA FEDERICO singled. Villegas would score on a single by ABIGAIL METSCH to make it 2-1. The score would become tied thanks to a double by EMILY HOWARD that scored Federico, and the Norsemen would take the lead thanks to an RBI single by KENNEDY LABSHERE. Valhalla led 3-2 after two innings.

The fourth inning saw Valhalla tack on another run to lead 4-2 and would extend it in the sixth thanks to a solo home run by Emily Howard to lead 5-2. Things looked pretty good for Valhalla as they rolled along but things fell apart in the bottom of the seventh thanks to three errors.

The three errors ended up being very costly as Serra was able to rally and tie the score at 5-5. LILY METSCH calmly shrugged off the rally and got out of the inning without any further damage done.

The Valhalla Norsemen, with the score tied going into the extra frames, decided to put things away early as they pushed across three runs in the top of the eighth inning to lead 8-5. ABIGAIL METSCH led things off with a double, RACHEL SHELSTROM singled, Howard would hit a fly ball to center that scored Metsch, and Labshere would blast a two run dinger over the left field fence to round out the scoring.

The Conquistadors finally were able to get out of the inning but the damage had been done. Now trailing by three runs, Serra looked to try and rally to extend the game. Unfortunately they would only put up one run thanks to a double by TARYN JELLISON who scored on an RBI single by ALYSA McGUIRE. After that run scored, Lily Metsch worked her magic and put the game to bed to claim the championship for Valhalla.

Both teams had players chosen to the All-Tournament team as well as an MVP.

Serra:
MVP – VIVIAN TOMOVICH
AMBER WOZNIAK
DARBY TIBBETTS
ASHLEY BLAKELY
TARYN JELLISON

Valhalla:
MVP – KENNEDY LABSHERE
LILY METSCH
VICTORIA VILLEGAS
LADY SARA FEDERICO

VALHALLA 15, SANTANA 5 — The semi-finals of the Bucs Classic Saturday (Apr. 4) between the Santana Sultans and the Valhalla Norsemen can be described a yo-yo of a game as Valhalla finally was able to put the game away 15-5.

The Valhalla Norsemen after setting the Sultans down in the top of the first inning looked to get things rolling as they put up two runs to take the early 2-0 lead. BRANDI KOHEL led off by reaching on an error and moved to second on a passed ball. She came around to score on a double by KENNEDY LABSHERE who would score on the single by KATIE SCHMIDT.

In the third inning the Norsemen extended their lead to 7-0 as they pushed across five more runs. LILY METSCH reached on an error, Kohel reached on another Sultan error. Labshere came up to the plate with one out and doubled scoring both Metsch and Kohel. KATIE SCHMIDT would single and LEXI INGRASSIA would draw a walk, and VICTORIA VILLEGAS doubled scoring both Schmidt and Ingrassia.

Valhalla, with a comfy 7-0 lead going into the fourth inning, looked to have things under control until Santana decided to wake up a bit in the top half of the inning by scoring a couple of runs to make it 7-2. They would make things more interesting as they scored three more in the top of the fifth to pull within 7-5. SYDNEY VATES would jack a two run bomb and MACKENZIE BENNETT would follow with a solo blast.

Valhalla put the game away by scoring eight runs in the bottom of the fifth to round out the scoring. The Norsemen would get multiple hits including a homerun by Villegas who finished 2-3 with a double, homerun, 4 RBI and a run scored. Labshere on the day went 3-4 with 2 doubles, homerun, 6 RBI and 3 runs scored.

PATRICK HENRY 10, CARLSBAD 2 — In the semifinals of the Falcon Fiesta tournament Saturday (Apr. 4) the Patrick Henry Patriots looked to get into another tournament championship as they took on the Carlsbad Lancers. The Patriots showed their dominance in all facets of the game in the 10-2 victory.

The Patriots in the first inning got on the board early as HANNAH McEWEN led off with a double and scored on the single by SIERRA ALTMEYER. Looking to extend their lead in the third the Patriots did just that thanks to ANYA VANDERSIP who had a 2 RBI single. In the inning Patrick Henry punched in four runs. They would push across another run in the fifth to lead 6-0.

In the sixth inning the Patriots would score four more to round out the scoring and in the bottom half the Lancers finally got on the board as they pushed across two runs.

MADISON JAMES took the circle and hurled a complete game, striking out seven while only giving up two hits to move on to the championship.

PATRICK HENRY 21, SCRIPPS RANCH 2 — You would think a championship game would be a more competitive contest as it is supposedly the two best teams of a tournament.

But that wasn’t the case as Patrick Henry took on their Eastern League rival Scripps Ranch and completely dominated them in all aspects 21-2 to earn another tournament championship in the Falcon Fiesta.

In the top of the first Patrick Henry got things rolling as HANNAH McEWEN led off with a walk, SIERRA ALTMEYER singled, ANYA VANDERSIP singled bringing in McEwen, and MADDIE BARRAZA singled bringing in Altmeyer to lead 2-0. In the top of the second the Patriots tacked on a couple more runs as McEwen scored and also CASSIE VANTIL would score as she had reached on an error and moved along thanks to multiple passed balls.

The third inning saw the floodgates open for Patrick Henry as they batted around tallying nine runs on seven hits. The entire lineup would also come around to score as well which put the game out of hand. Thanks to the offensive inning by the Patriots they now led 14-0.

The Scripps Ranch Falcons finally got out of the inning and actually avoided the shutout by scoring two runs.

The Patriots with the huge lead tacked a couple more runs on in the top of the fourth inning to lead 16-2. They punched across five more runs in the fifth inning to finalize the scoring.

In the bottom of the fifth the Patriots ace MADISON JAMES mowed down the Falcons 1-2-3 to end the game via the run rule.

On the day James went the distance for the victory, giving up two runs, four hits and striking out three. With the victory the Patriots claimed another tournament victory on the season as they had already claimed the Gold Bracket Championship in the Cougar Classic. The victory also shows that they will be a tough team to beat in league play.

Patrick Henry’s Sierra Altmeyer was named the Falcon Fiesta MVP.

GRANITE HILLS 1, MATER DEI 0 — One would figure a top ten team such as Mater Dei would beat a non-ranked team in a game but that wasn’t the case Saturday (Apr. 4). The Granite Hills Eagles took on the No. 10 ranked Crusaders according to a media poll and showed that on any given day a team can beat another team. In what would be considered a stunning upset to many they defeated the Crusaders 1-0 in a great pitchers’ duel in the Falcon Fiesta tournament.

Pitch for pitch, inning by inning the teams dueled it out and it wasn’t until the top of the seventh inning that the Crusaders blinked first.

The Eagles had only two hits on the day, one of them a single by JESSIE LAPIERRE coming in the crucial top of the seventh leading to HALLE KYLER getting into scoring position at third base. With one out it was up to CASSIDY SHEW to finally get the Eagles on the board. She accomplished the task as she grounded out, scoring Kyler with what ended up being the deciding run.

Out came the Eagles for the bottom half of the inning looking to shut the door and end the game. KAILA DeWITT in the circle for the Eagles had so far pitched one heck of a game against the potent Mater Dei lineup. On three pitches she got the first batter to ground out, the second batter grounded out to shortstop for the second out and the third batter grounded out as well for the easy 1-2-3 and the ballgame.

DeWitt went the distance for the victory giving up 4 hits and striking out 4 while walking 3 in the victory. The Eagles defense really stepped up its game as they committed no errors which helped as DeWitt forced 9 ground ball outs on the day.

GROSSMONT 12, HILLTOP 6 — The Grossmont Foothillers looked to continue their winning ways in the Falcon Fiesta tournament as they took on the Hilltop Lancers on Saturday (Apr. 4) and were successful as they doubled up the Lancers 12-6.

In the top of the first inning the Lancers scored three runs to take the early 3-0 lead but the Foothillers had an answer in the bottom half.

Leading off for the Foothillers was CARLY PEARSON who was hit by a pitch, CHLOE CAMARERO singled moving up Pearson, TAYLOR BAEZ followed with an RBI single, DESTINY BACON nailed an RBI double, MADDIE LINDSEY singled in a run and KATIE APPENZELLER blasted a two run double. After it was all done in the first inning, Grossmont now led 5-3.

In the bottom of the second inning after shutting down the Lancers the Foothillers again scored another run to make it 6-3. Camerero led off with a single and swiped second base and came around to score when Bacon was able to reach on a Lancer error.

However the lead would only be short lived as the Lancers chipped away in the top of the third with a run and two more in the top of the fourth to even the score at 6-6.

The Foothillers, having blown a three run lead, didn’t panic as they promptly in the bottom of the fifth scored a plethora of runs to take the lead. ALEXIS COLLINS led off with a single, Bacon singled, Lindsey was hit by a pitch and KLARISSA ARREOLA came in as a courtesy runner. Now with the bases juiced, Appenzeller stepped to the plate and was hit by a pitch that scored Collins. AMBER ALLMANN singled which scored Bacon, Camarero walked which scored Arreola and Taylor Baez blasted a double that scored Camarero, Appenzeller and Allmann.

To round out the scoring the Foothillers pushed across another run in the sixth via a double by Lindsey who was replaced for a courtesy runner by Arreola. She would come in to score when Allmann singled.

Tough day for the Patriots

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
OCEANSIDE (4-4-15) — Friday (Apr. 3) saw the Christian Patriots travel to Oceanside to take on the Pirates in Jaguar Classic action. Unfortunately it would be a long ride home as they dropped the contest 10-2.

It wasn’t all bad as ANNA SHERBURNE continued her hitting from the other day against Granite Hills. This time around she went 2-2, 2 doubles and 2 RBI.

It was a rough day for pitching as ASHLEY CARTER took the loss.

Pearson and the Foothillers steal a victory in the Jaguar

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-3-15) — The Grossmont Foothillers hosted the El Camino Wildcats in a Jaguar Classic clash Thursday (Apr. 2) and came away with the shutout of the team from the North County by a score of 5-0.

In the top of the first the Foothillers were able to get out of the inning despite giving up a couple of base hits. This pretty much set the tone for the game as the Foothillers pushed across four runs in the bottom of the inning to lead 4-0 early on.

As usual, just like in the past couple of games, leadoff hitter started things off with a single, she stole second and moved over to third on the single by TAYLOR BAEZ. Baez stole second base and on the throw to second CARLY PEARSON stole home to give the Foothillers a 1-0 lead. Up came MADDIE LINDSEY who singled and was replaced by KLARISSA ARREOLA as a courtesy runner. However she got out on a 2-4 play.

Now with two outs and Baez still on base, DESTINY BACON came to the plate looking to extend the lead and was able to with a single scoring Baez. Bacon then was able to successfully swipe second base and with two outs still and a runner in scoring position it was up to ALEXIS COLLINS to keep the inning alive and she did via a double that scored Bacon. KAILEY DANIELS boomed a double of her own scoring Collins. El Camino got out of the inning finally but saw themselves trailing.

Grossmont would score their last run in the sixth inning when Pearson singled and stole second base and would come around and score on the single by CHLOE CAMARERO. The five runs would be all the Foothillers would need as CASSIDY DAVILLA shut down the Wildcats going the distance, while striking out seven of eight hits.

Offensively the Foothillers, led by Pearson, who went 3-4, a double and stole four bases while scoring two runs were able to bang out 10 hits on the day. Collins finished 2-3 with a stolen base and a run scored.

GRANITE HILLS 4, OUR LADY OF PEACE 3 — In Jaguar Classic action Thursday (Apr. 2) the Granite Hills Eagles hosted the OLP Pilots and were able to pull out the victory 4-3.

The first inning saw the Eagles get out of the top without giving up anything and in their half of the first they were able to get out ahead 2-0. Leading off in the inning KAREN CREECH boomed a double, HALLE KYLER drew a base on balls, and JESSIE LaPIERRE nailed a single that scored both Creech and Kyler.

Things were going in favor of the Eagles until the top of the fourth inning when they ran into trouble thanks to a leadoff walk and multiple base hits. All of this now saw the Eagles trailing 3-2. The Eagles were able to get out of the inning without anymore damage done.

It wasn’t until the bottom of the sixth when the Eagles chipped at the lead with a run to tie it at 3-3. The Eagles LaPierre doubled and was moved over on the single by NICOLE GLIKO and scored on the sacrifice fly by KATIE WALL.

The Eagles were able to draw last blood in the bottom of the last inning and win the game in intense fashion. Creech led off with a single, Kyler singled, and LaPierre walked giving Granite Hills the bases loaded with only one down. Up came CASSIDY SHEW who prior to this at bat was hitless on the day so she was due and boy did she ever come through, nailing the game winning hit scoring Creech.

Granite Hills tagged Pilots pitching for four runs, all of them earned and were able to bang out eleven hits.

Halle Kyler tossed the victory for the Eagles going all seven innings, gave up six hits and three runs of which all were earned and she struck out five Pilot batters.

VALHALLA 19, KEARNY 0 — Sometimes a contest can be so lopsided that it makes you wonder how this even came to be played. This was the case in Thursday’s (Apr. 2) Bucs Classic game between the Valhalla Norsemen and the Kearny Komets. It was lopsided in favor of the Norseman who rolled the Komets 19-0.

The game was pretty much over after the first couple of innings as the Norsemen pushed across 10 runs in the first two frames. The Norsemen would do more damage and really put the game out of reach in the fourth inning as they scored nine runs.

In the fourth inning the big highlights belonged to LADY SARA FEDERICO and ABIGAIL METSCH as they did their best Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig impression by bombing back-to-back homeruns. The dinger by Federico was of the three run variety and the shot by Metsch was a solo homer and was her second in two days.

Another highlight of the game for the Norsemen was when junior outfielder ANGELINA GUTHRO nailed a base hit which was the first for her of the season between the third baseman and the shortstop a place made famous by Tony Gwynn, also known as the 5.5 hole.

Pitching for the Norsemen like their offense showed their dominance with TORI BASSETTE who got the victory and Abigail Metsch combining on a one hit, eight strikeouts, one walk shutout.

MISSION BAY 10, HELIX 8 — In Jaguar Classic action the visiting Helix Highlanders dropped an offensive laden contest to the Mission Bay Buccaneers by a score of 10-8.

No other details provided

Uy throws no hitter against Montgomery

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-2-15) — The Valhalla Norseman made short work of the Montgomery Aztecs in Wednesday’s (Apr. 1) Bucs Classic contest 11-0 at Valhalla High.

The contest was a shortened run ruled game due to the fact that in only her second high school start DANIELLE UY hurled a no hitter and was backed by a bombardment of runs by the Valhalla offense.

The Norseman offense scored nine runs in the first two innings and put the game away with two more in the fourth inning. One of the big highlights of the offense was the booming bomb of a two run homer over the left field fence by ABIGAIL METSCH in the bottom of the fourth inning. The home run was the second for her on the season.

Another contributor on offense was RACHEL SHELSTROM who went 2-2 with both a single and a double and she was hit by a pitch. Besides the two hits she drove in three runs, scored three times and swiped a base.

Uy, in her impressive no hit bid, never allowed an Aztec batter to get the ball out of the infield and faced only two over the minimum batter. She also struck out five Aztecs.

SERRA 9, SANTANA 7 — The Serra Conquistadors traveled to Santee on Wednesday (Apr.1) to take on the Santana Sultans in a Bucs Classic Clash and won 9-7.

The Conquistadors scored in pretty much every inning and needed all of those runs as the Sultans would do their best to make a fast and furious comeback down the stretch.

Things started for Serra in the first inning as VIVIAN TOMOVICH was hit by a pitch, she swiped second base and would score on the double by AMBER WOZNIAK to make it 1-0. In the second inning Serra again scored a run as TARYN JELLISON singled, moved to third on the double by ALYSA MCGUIRE and scored on the ground out by MEGAN POOLE to make it 2-0.

The third inning saw things get really interesting as Serra was able to push three more runs across to lead 5-0. BROOK RUSSELL, ASHLEY BLAKELY, and TAYLOR CURLEY all scored for Serra. Santana was able to finally get out of the top half of the inning without any further damage done.

Looking at a five run deficit the bats of the Sultans finally came alive as they chipped into the deficit by scoring two runs. For Santana it was CASSIE MATTHIE and SYDNEY VATES who would score in the inning. The Sultans were able to cut the Serra lead to 5-2 after three innings of play.

Serra answered the Sultans in the top of the fourth when Tomovich led off with a double and scored when Wozniak reached on a Sultan error to make the score 6-2. Santana wouldn’t score in the bottom of the inning.

The fifth inning saw Serra score twice as Jellison and Poole would touch home to make it 8-2. In the bottom half the Sultans chipped into the lead by generating a couple of runs themselves thanks to a leadoff double by Matthie who scored on the very next play as Vates would double as well. With the score now 8-3 and Vates at second, Bennett would move Vates to third on a groundout and Vates would score as MACKENZIE REYNOLDS reached on an error to make the score 8-4 in the Conquistador’s favor.

In the top of the sixth the Conquistadors were able to push across their final run as Wozniak came around to score to extend the lead to 9-4. The Sultans, not having many opportunities left in the game, looked to get things going as they pushed three runs across. TWYLA KUKUK reached on a fielder’s choice giving the Sultans one out, SYDNEY BENJAMIN reached on an error, Matthie flied out to make it two down. So with two outs and two on Sydney Vates came to the plate looking to do something and that she did as she hammered the pitch over the centerfield fence (over 200 feet) for a three run homer to make the score 9-7.

That’s as close as the Sultans would get as they would go down in the bottom of the seventh.

For Serra offensively the trio of Taryn Jellison 2-4 (RBI, 2R), Vivian Tomovich 1-4 (2R), Amber Wozniak 1-4 (2B, RBI, R) helped get the victory.

Offensively for the Sultans it was the duo of Sydney Vates 3-4 (HR, 2B, 4RBI, 3R), Cassie Matthie 2-3 (2B, 2R) along with CELINE MENARD 2-4 (RBI).

PATRICK HENRY 6, VISTA 0 — The Patrick Henry Patriots extended their winning ways with their eighth straight game as they dispatched the home team Vista Panthers 6-0 in Wednesday (Apr. 1) Falcon Fiesta Tournament clash.

The Patriots got things going in the top of the first as they pushed a couple of runs across. Both HANNAH McEWEN and SIERRA ALTMEYER scored to give the Patriots the 2-0 lead. In the third inning, CRISTIONA CACCAMISE blasted a two run bomb to extend the lead to 4-0. On board was Altmeyer who doubled just prior to the home run.

Looking to do more damage the Patriots did just that in the top of the third inning thanks to a double by MADISON JAMES who was switched for courtesy runner REBECCA DELAROSA who would score on the very next play as CASSIE VAN TIL drove her in on a double. Van Til would also come around to score in the inning to round out the scoring.

Madison James took the circle for the Patriots and was her usual dominant self as she struck out 12 batters while only giving up two hits on the day in the victory.

HELIX 14, KEARNY 0 (5 inn.) — In Bucs Classic action Wednesday (Apr. 1) at Helix High the Highlanders dispatched the Kearny Komets by a score of 14-0 in five innings.

The Highlanders’ pitching played a very dominant role in the victory as BRIANA REED tossed three innings and VICTORIA CYMAN tossed the last two innings. Reed gained the victory which was her fifth on the season, only giving up one hit. Cyman came in for the final two innings to get the save, only giving up one hit and striking out three.

The pitching may have been dominant but was aided by the plethora of runs put up by the offense provided by a trio of Highlanders. Victoria Cyman not only pitched but went 3-3, with a double and two RBI, SILVANA DORNFELD 2-3 and drove in two runs, and the last of the trio DESTINI BULLOCK 3-3, doubled and had two RBI as well.

RANCHO BERNARDO 12, GROSSMONT 2 — It was a tough day for the home team Grossmont Foothillers as they had the task of facing the usually North County power Rancho Bernardo Broncos in the Falcon Fiesta Tournament on Wednesday (Apr. 1). The Broncos were able to win the contest 12-2.

Both of the runs for Grossmont came courtesy of CARLY PEARSON as she scored both of them and continued on from yesterday offensively. She led off the bottom of the first with a base hit, moved over to second on a sacrifice, moved over to third on a base hit by TAYLOR BAEZ, and came home via the RBI hit by MADDIE LINDSEY.

The other run for Grossmont came in the bottom of the third inning as Pearson gained a base hit with one out, moved to second on the groundout and came in with two down on the scorching double to the left field fence by Baez.

CARLSBAD 8, GRANITE HILLS 6 — The Granite Hills Eagles traveled to Carlsbad Wednesday (Apr.1) for Falcon Fiesta action and unfortunately dropped the contest 8-6.

Carlsbad jumped all over the Eagles early on, scoring seven runs over the first three innings of play making the contest seem a runaway victory. However the Eagles had other ideas because in the fourth inning they were able to slowly chip at the lead scoring three runs. MEGAN ERICKSON, BRIELLE TYSELING and KAYLA MACK all scored runs while KAILA DeWITT and KAREN CREECH had the RBIs, with DeWitt pushing across one and Creech driving in two.

In the fourth for the Eagles it was CASSIDY SHEW scoring another run cutting the lead to three at 7-4. However the Lancers put up another run via a solo homerun to make it 8-4 after four innings of play.

The Eagles running out of opportunities did their best to make things interesting as they scored two more runs in the top of the fifth to make it 8-6. Scoring for the Eagles in the inning was Creech and Mack. They would get one more crack at a rally but unfortunately were cut short.

Creech finished on the day 2-4, two doubles and two RBI. Dewitt would finish with two RBI.

Sherburne with the power for Christian

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-1-15) — In a game between neighbors as both schools are not that far from each other, the Christian Patriots hosted the Granite Hills Eagles in Jaguar Classic action Tuesday (Mar. 31) and pulled off what many would consider an upset of sorts 7-3.

The Eagles got on the board first thanks to KAREN CREECH leading off by reaching on an error, she would be moved over to third on the double by KAILA DEWITT. The next batter HALLE KYLER brought home Creech on a sacrifice fly to left to make it 1-0. The Patriots would eventually get out of the jam.

Facing the early deficit the Patriots looked to get things going and they did as SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA was able to reach on an error. She would later come around to score on the single by GABBY GRABOWSKI. So after one inning the scored was all tied.

A ground ball to the shortstop while an Eagle goes to third. Photo Courtesy of Don Wall. More photos can be seen on the Photo page.

In the bottom of the second inning ALEXA HENDERSON was able to draw the one out walk, ELLE LINBLAD singled moving Henderson to second. ASHLEY CARTER grounded out. Now with the two outs in the inning the Eagles looked to get out the inning without any damage done but unfortunately that didn’t occur.

Silent Rain Espinoza was able to draw the two out base on balls, giving the Patriots the bases loaded and an opportunity. Up came ANNA SHERBURNE looking to do something and that was exactly what she did as she took the 3-1 pitch and jacked it over the fence for a grand slam homerun to give the Patriots a 5-2 lead.

The Eagles looked to get back in the game as they came up to bat in the third inning and were able to cut the lead to 5-3 thanks to an RBI single by Halle Kyler that scored KAYLA MACK who had reached on an error. Both teams would trade scoreless innings in the fourth.

In the top of the fifth inning the Eagles whose chances were dwindling, went down in order. In the bottom of the inning the Patriots were able to tack on the last two runs thanks to a leadoff walk by Espinoza, Sherburne doubled and both scored when Grabowski had an RBI single.

The Eagles in the final two innings could only muster a meager two hits both with two outs and in the top of the sixth the game would end when Grabowski was able to get Mack to groundout.

Offensively the Eagles only mustered five hits which included the homerun by Nicole Gliko who went 1-3 (RBI, R), Halle Kyler 1-3 (2 RBI), Karen Creech (R), Kayla Mack (R).

The Patriots on the other hand were able to tally eight hits on the day thanks in part to Anna Sherburne and her big day 2-3 (HR, 4 RBI, 2 R, 2B), Silent Rain Espinoza 1-1 (3 R), Gabby Grabowski 2-3 (two RBI).

Besides her day at the plate, Grabowski took the circle and went the distance for the complete game victory only needing 71 pitches. She gave up five hits, three runs of which only one was earned. Out of the 27 batters she faced she was able to get 12 ground ball outs.

BISHOP’S 2, GROSSMONT 1 – In Jaguar Classic tournament action on Tuesday (Mar.31) the Grossmont Foothillers traveled to the Bishop’s and unfortunately dropped a nail biter 2-1.

In the first inning the Knights struck first pushing a run across to lead early on 1-0. However the Foothillers would push across a run of their own in the third inning to tie the score at 1-1 thanks to a base hit by ALEXIS COLLINS. She would score on a hit by CARLY PEARSON.

The score would remain tied until the bottom of the seventh inning when the Knights would find a way to score the winning run.

Hitting wise the Foothillers were able to tally six hits with the birthday girl Carly Pearson 2-3, and Alexis Collins 2-2.