EAST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOFTBALL — 2015

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Senior Eaton gets her fifth victory in last home game

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (5-19-15) — It was senior day out in Santee as host West Hills took on the visiting cross town rival Santana Sultans and came away with the 15-4 victory in Grossmont Hills league action, Monday (May 18).

Things were a little interesting in the top of the first as the Sultans were able to jump out to the early lead. MACKENZIE BENNETT was able to draw the walk, she was replaced by a courtesy runner, the next batter SYDNEY VATES would take the 2-1 count and paste the offering over the fence for the two run jack. The homer gave the Sultans the early 2-0 lead. The next two Sultan batters were retired to end the inning.

Despite trailing the Wolf Pack didn’t sweat it as they went to business in the bottom of the first. Leadoff hitter BROOKE ROBERTS reached on a walk, she would be moved to third on a base hit by KENDALL MARINESI who stole second base, so with runners in scoring position up stepped ALEX GUAY who rifled a double scoring both Roberts and Marinesi. The next batter PAIGE BOWLER laced a single that scored Guay from second. So with two down and Bowler on first, SAVANNAH HENDERSON stepped to the plate and crushed a two run dinger to give the Wolf Pack the 5-2 lead.

In the bottom of the second inning the Wolf Pack were able to push across four more runs thanks to multiple base hits and a Sultan miscue. Leading off was CAELI GIBBS who laced a single, she would be forced out on a grounder, Brooke Roberts reached on an error, RYLEIGH DOBYNS reached on a fielders choice, Kendall Marinesi struck out for the second out of the inning, Alex Guay would walk which loaded the bases, Paige Bowler smashed a double scoring both Roberts and Dobyns, SYDNEY CRAVEN roped another double scoring both Guay and Bowler to give the Wolf Pack a 9-2 lead.

The Wolf Pack looked to extend their lead in the bottom of the fourth and were able to do so as they pushed across three runs to make the score 12-2. Alex Guay singled, she would be replaced by ALEXIS HERRERA as a courtesy runner, Paige Bowler singled which moved Herrera to third, Bowler stole second base, Sydney Craven sacrifices which scores Herrera, Savannah Henderson draws the walk and MELISSA CASTILLO blasts a two run double scoring both Bowler and Henderson.

The Sultans in the top of the fifth looked to keep the game going as they needed to score as they were down by ten runs. TWYLA KUKUK led off with a single, HANNAH COSTELLO sacrificed Kukuk over to second, the next batter grounded out for the second out of the inning, down to their last out CASSIDY MATTHIE was able to keep things alive as she drew a walk, Mackenzie Bennett drew another walk, so with the bases loaded Sydney Vates was able to lace a single that scored both Kukuk and Matthie to make the score 12-4.

The Sultans would keep the Wolf Pack scoreless in the bottom of the fifth. In the top of the sixth the Wolf Pack retired the Sultans in order. West Hills looked to put things to an end and were able to do so as they pushed across three runs to round out their scoring.

Leading off for the Pack in the inning was Paige Bowler who doubled, Savannah Henderson walked, the next batter Fisher flew out for the second out of the inning, Caeli Gibbs singled scoring Bowler, Roberts walked and finally Ryleigh Dobyns ended things with her double that scored both Henderson and Gibbs.

Taking the circle was Senior TESS EATON who went the distance in the victory, she gave up 4 runs of which all were earned on 4 hits while walking 4 and striking out 1. The victory improved her season record to 5-2.

With the victory the Wolf Pack clinched the Grossmont Hills league crown and will use the momentum heading into the Division 1 playoffs.

After the game the Wolf Pack took the time to recognize their two seniors Tess Eaton and Meghan Fisher for their contributions to the program.

VALHALLA 2, STEELE CANYON 0 – The last day of the regular season saw the Valhalla Norsemen host the visiting Steele Canyon Cougars and come away with the 2-0 victory in Grossmont Hills league action, Monday (May 18).

In the top of the first inning behind the pitching of LILY METSCH the Norsemen were able to hold the Cougars to one hit in the inning thanks to the defense. In the bottom of the first the Norsemen looked to get things going early and did so as they were able to push across a run. After the first out of the inning, the second batter KENNEDY LABSHERE 2-3 (2 R, HR, 2B) was able to get ahold of a pitch and absolutely crush it over the left field fence for the solo bomb to give the Norsemen the 1-0 lead.

Both teams would be held scoreless until the bottom of the sixth when again Labshere banged a double and would score on the single by DANIELLE UY 2-3 (RBI, 2B) to extend the lead 2-0.

The Valhalla lead would hold as Lily Metsch was able to retire the Cougars in order to end the game and thus go into the playoffs with some momentum. On the day Metsch went the distance for the win, gave up no runs on 3 hits and fanned 1 while making the Cougars hit mostly fly balls and ground outs.

Also to note it was Senior Day for the Norsemen as they recognized ANNA MARIE IULIANO, LADY SARA FEDERICO, ABIGAIL METSCH, KAYLIE HIPWELL, KATIE SCHMIDT and Danielle Uy for their contributions to the program.

MONTE VISTA 4, HELIX 2 — In Grossmont Valley League action Monday (May 18) the Monte Vista Monarchs traveled to La Mesa to take on the Helix Highlanders. In what some people will call an upset the Monarchs were able to leave with the 4-2 victory.

The Monarchs in the top of the first were able to capitalize early as JAYDE GOLDHAGEN was able to lay down a perfect bunt down the third base line for a single. She promptly stole second and actually came around to score on a wild pitch to give the Monarchs a 1-0 lead early on.

In the fourth inning, Monte Vista added a second run thanks to a triple by CYNTHIA VALENCIA 3-4 (2 RBI) who with two outs would score on an RBI single by RAYNA GONZALEZ to push the score 2-0.

The Monarchs would push across another run in the top of the fifth inning as BRITNEY JACOBSON would bang a double and score on the RBI single by Cynthia Valencia to make it 3-1 in favor of Monte Vista. They would tack on their final run thanks to another RBI single by Valencia that would score Britney Jacobson to make the 4-1.

For the Monarchs, EMILY BODTKE tossed a complete game.

The Highlanders would score both of their runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to cut the lead 4-2 but that is the closest they would get.

DeWitt and the Eagles like to play in the rain

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (5-15-15) — Mother Nature swept through the entire San Diego County on Thursday (May 14) so all games that were called off due to rainout have to be made up this weekend or on Monday (May 18).

GRANITE HILLS 11, GROSSMONT 1 — One of the few contests to be played saw the Grossmont Foothillers visit the Granite Hills Eagles in a winner take all showdown for the league crown in the Grossmont Valley League on Thursday (May 14). In the end the Granite Hills Eagles left little doubt as to whom the better of the two teams was as they clubbed their way to an 11-1 victory in 5 innings.

Despite the rain and a couple of delays the umpires did a walk-through of the field to make sure it was playable and after determining it was, both teams played ball.

The Foothillers looked to get things going early it looked really good as leadoff hitter CHLOE CAMARERO 2-3 (R) laced a single, the next batter CARLY PEARSON 1-2 (RBI) was able to smash an RBI single that scored Camarero to give the Foothillers the early 1-0 lead. However that was all they would get as the next three batters were retired.

Trailing by a run the Eagles went to work as leadoff hitter KAREN CREECH 1-4 (2 RBI, 2 R, HR) was able to reach on an error thanks to the wetness caused by the rain. The next batter KAILA DeWITT 3-3 (2 RBI, 3 R, HR, 2B) stepped to the plate looking to do some damage and that she did as she took the 1-2 offering and smashed a 2-run homer to give the Eagles the 2-1 lead.

The next two batters VICTORIA HATHAWAY 1-4 (2 RBI, 3 R) and JESSIE LaPIERRE 2-4 (RBI, R, 2B) would both reach via singles. LaPierre would be replaced by a courtesy runner, and HALLE KYLER 2-3 (2 RBI) laced a single that scored Hathaway and advanced the courtesy runner to third base. CASSIDY SHEW 0-2 (RBI) was able to knock in the run with a sacrifice fly to centerfield to give the Eagles a 4-1 lead. That was all the Eagles would muster in the inning.

Eagles pitcher Halle Kyler went back to business in the top of the second inning as she was able to able to get out of a little jam to end the inning still ahead.

The Eagles, in good shape leading by three, runs looked to do some more damage. Leadoff hitter BRIELLE TYSELING 2-3 (2 R) took the 1-2 offering and smashed a single, so with a runner on and the top of the order now for the Eagles, Karen Creech stepped to the plate and after taking the first pitch took the second pitch and absolutely clubbed it over the left field fence for a 2-run blast and also her first of the season. The next batter, DeWitt doubled, Hathaway reached on an error which scored DeWitt, and Kyler singled in Hathaway giving the Eagles an 8-1 advantage.

In the top of the third the Foothillers tried to get something going as leadoff hitter Chloe Camarero singled but she would be out at second two batters later as TAYLOR BAEZ grounded into the fielder’s choice. Baez would advance all the way to third on consecutive wild pitches. However she would be stranded at third as Halle Kyler retired DESTINY BACON on a groundout to end the inning. The Eagles, already with a commanding 8-1 lead, looked to add more before the rain came in.

Leading off for the Eagles in the bottom of the third was Brielle Tyseling who was able to club a double, the next batter Karen Creech was out with a hit to the shortstop, so with one down the next batter Kaila DeWitt, who had previously homered and doubled, was able to draw a walk. Halle Kyler was able to reach on a throwing error by the shortstop which in turn allowed both Tyseling and DeWitt to score extending the lead to 10-1.

The fourth inning saw both teams shutout and make the game official in case of a stoppage due to rain.

In the top of the fifth inning the Foothillers threatened as KAILEY DANIELS walked, MEGAN MALWITZ reached on an error, so with two runners on and the top of the order up, Chloe Camarero grounded into a fielder’s choice, the next batter KLARISSA ARREOLA who came into pinch hit for Pearson also grounded into a fielders choice. The next batter TAYLOR BAEZ, Eagles pitcher Halle Kyler was able to finally get out on a five pitch strikeout to end the inning.

With the skies really dark not too far off in the distance and it threatening to really pour rain, the Eagles in the bottom of the fifth needed only a run to end the game. Leadoff hitter Karen Creech would fly out for the first out, Kaila DeWitt would single, Victoria Hathaway would reach on a fielder’s choice, so with two outs, Jessie LaPierre was able to take the 1-1 pitch and wallop a double all the way to the fence. Hathaway, who was at first, was able to come all the way around to score the game ending run.

For the Foothillers taking the circle was CASSIDY DAVILA who also took the loss, going all five innings giving up 11 runs, of which 7 were earned on 12 hits. She also walked 2 and struck out 2 batters.

In the circle for the Eagles was Halle Kyler who on the day seemed to throw faster as the game progressed. She gained the victory going the distance giving up the run in the first inning which was earned on 4 hits. She also walked 2 while fanning 4 batters.

After the game, the Eagles in a short ceremony recognized the four seniors on the team, Kaila DeWitt, Victoria Hathaway, MEGAN ERICKSON and NICOLE GLIKO.

The Foothillers will finish the league season in second place and make their way into the CIF Division 3 playoffs as a Top 10 seed – not sure where for sure, as games need to be made up.

Granite Hills with the victory clinched the Grossmont Valley League crown with a 7 game winning streak and will make their way into the CIF Division 2 playoffs as the probable No. 2 seed.

Labshere and Uy dominate in victory

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (5-12-15) — On the next to the last day of league play the Valhalla Norsemen traveled to Santee Tuesday (May 12) to take on the Santana Sultans in Grossmont Hills League action and came away with the 7-4 victory.

For the first couple of innings both teams played even ball as both were able to retire without any damage done but in the top of the third inning Valhalla finally broke through to score the first run of the game.

For the Norsemen, leadoff hitter KENNEDY LABSHERE 4-4 (RBI, 3 R, HR) singled, the next batter DANIELLE UY 3-3 (2 RBI, 2 R) drew a walk moving Labshere to second. With two runners on KATIE SCHMIDT doubled bringing in Labshere to make the score 1-0 in favor of Valhalla.

The top of the fourth saw Norsemen leadoff hitter ABIGAIL METSCH 1-4 (RBI, HR) take the 1-2 offering and just crush the pitch over the wall for a solo blast and also her sixth of the season to make the score 2-0.

In the bottom half of the inning with the Sultans trailing and looking to get something going, they finally broke through when leadoff hitter MACKENZIE “The Crusher” REYNOLDS 2-3 (RBI, R, HR) was able to get ahold of the 1-0 offering and just bomb the ball over the centerfield fence for the solo shot to pull the Sultans within 3-1. However that was all they would get in the inning.

Only leading by two runs the Norsemen looked to extend their lead and were able to do so as Kennedy Labshere led off with a double and Danielle Uy came to the plate and got in on the homer action as she blasted the 1-0 offering over the wall to give Valhalla a 4-1 lead. The blast was her third of the season.

The Sultans would add another run in the bottom of the fifth thanks to a run scored by CELINE MENARD to make the score 4-2. Santana in the bottom of the sixth would tack on another run as SYDNEY VATES would come around to pull the Sultans within one run at 4-3.

In the top of the seventh inning, for the third time in the game the Norsemen leadoff blasted a homer. This time it was Kennedy Labshere who rode a full count and smashed the next pitch over the fence to make it 5-3. The homerun was the third on the season for her. The next batter Danielle Uy laced a single, Katie Schmidt would reach on an error, VICTORIA VILLEGAS ripped a single scoring Uy to make it 6-3 and LADY SARA FEDERICO hit a sac-fly to center scoring Schmidt to make it 7-3.

The Sultans had one more shot to do anything but all they could do is tack on one run to round out the scoring at 7-4 thanks to a CASSIDY MATTHIE 1-4 (RBI, 2B) RBI.

For the Norsemen taking the circle was the always reliable workhorse LILY METSCH who went the entire distance for the victory and also her thirteenth victory of the season.

Before the game the Sultans did a nice gesture and recognized the seniors of Valhalla who were Danielle Uy, Abigail Metsch, ANNAMARIE IULIANO, Lady Sara Federico, and Katie Schmidt and also gave them each flowers.

After the game the Sultans recognized their own three seniors with flowers among other things. Those recognized by the program were Mackenzie “The Crusher” Reynolds, TWYLA KUKUK and HANNAH COSTELLO.

PATRICK HENRY 15, MIRA MESA 1 — In Eastern league action the Patrick Henry Patriots traveled to Mira Mesa on Tuesday (May 12) and were able to avenge their earlier loss with a 15-1 rout in a shortened 5 innings.

In a contest that basically was going to decide the Eastern League title the Patriots came ready for the Marauders this time around. They got things rolling in the top of the second as they pushed across three runs to lead 3-0 early on.

Patriots leadoff hitter DANIELLE ROMERO 1-3 (RBI, 2 R, HR) bombed a solo shot, both CASSIE VAN TIL 2-3 (RBI, 2B,4 R) and MONTANA POTTS 2-4 (3 RBI,2B, 2 R) singled, HANNAH McEWEN 4-5 (RBI, 2 R) knocked in Van Til with a single and Potts would score on a passed ball.

The Patriots tacked on three more runs in the top of the fourth to make the score 6-0 thanks to Van Til, Potts and McEwen reaching base. SIERRA ALTMEYER 2-4 (4 RBI, R, 2B) would knock in both Potts and McEwen and Van Til came in on the single by Potts. The Marauders finally got on the board with their only run of the game to make to score 6-1 after four innings.

The top of the fifth inning saw the Patriots break open the floodgates scoring 9 runs to push the score to 15-1 thus ending the game after 5 innings.

Gaining the pitching victory was MADISON “MJ” JAMES who went all 5 innings and gave up one run which was earned on two hits and struck out four. With the victory the Patriots pretty much clinch the Eastern League crown leading by one game with only one left to play.

WEST HILLS 10, EL CAPITAN 2 — The Wolf Pack of West Hills traveled to Lakeside to take on the El Capitan Vaqueros in Grossmont Hills League play Tuesday (May 12) and came away with the 10-2 victory.

The bats of the Wolf Pack started out slowly and finally in the top of the fourth inning broke through with five runs to lead 5-0. Leadoff hitter KENDALL MARINESI 2-4 (2 RBI, 2 R) started things off with a single she would move up on an error, ALEX GUAY singled and would be replaced by a courtesy runner who stole second base. RYLEIGH DOBYNS 1-2 (R) reached on an error, PAIGE BOWLER 2-4 (2 RBI, R) knocked in Marinesi with a double, MOANA PISIA 2-4 (RBI, R) knocked in an RBI on an unassisted out, SIERRA SCHLICHTING would score and BROOKE ROBERTS 3-5 (2RBI, R) would knock in a run with her triple.

In the top of the fifth inning, West Hills added another run as Kendall Marinesi led off with a walk and would come around and score on a single by Paige Bowler to make the score 6-0. They would tack on a couple more runs in the sixth inning on a single by Roberts, MELISSA CASTILLO would double Roberts in and Marinesi would single in Castillo to push the score to 8-0.

The Wolf Pack would round out their scoring in the seventh with two more runs. The Vaqueros who had been shut out the entire ballgame were finally able to get on the board as GRACE BURKETT and ZANDRA RAGALE 2-4 (R) came around to score.

The pitching victory went to KELCI ELLIS-ALVAREZ as she went the full 7 innings, gave up 2 runs on 7 hits while striking out 5 on the day.

SCRIPPS RANCH 5, SERRA 1 — The Serra Conquistadors traveled to Scripps Ranch to take on the Falcons and fell 5-1 in Eastern League play on Tuesday (May 12).

The Conquistadors who were looking for the big upset on the day unfortunately were limited to one run by the Falcons.

The Falcons scored a run in the bottom of the first and also bottom of the fourth to lead 2-0.

In the top of the fifth, Serra was able to cut the lead to one run thanks to an RBI single by VIVIAN TOMOVICH 1-2 (RBI).

Scripps Ranch would round out its lead in the bottom of the sixth inning by scoring three runs in the inning.

HELIX 12, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 — The Helix Highlanders traveled to Spring Valley on Tuesday (May 12) to take on the Mount Miguel Matadors in Grossmont Valley League play and came away with the 12-0 victory in 6 innings.

The bats for the Highlanders started out slowly but finally broke through in the third inning as BRIANNA REED 3-5 (3 R) led off with a single and moved to third base on an error, CLARISSA SMITH knocked her in with a single and MCKENZIE FLORES 3-5 (3 RBI, 2 R) also scored after getting on via a single of her own.

In the fourth inning the Highlanders scored six times as JAYCIE MATTHEWS led off with a walk, DESTINI BULLOCK 4-5 (RBI, 2 R, 2B) singled, McKenzie Flores drove in two runs with a single and also VICTORIA CYMAN drove in two as well. Rounding out the scoring in the inning were JAZMINE VELIZ and SHAREENA LaCHANCE with their singles, which both knocked in runs.

Taking the circle for Helix was Shareena LaChance who tossed the complete game one hit shutout of the Matadors.

CHRISTIAN 23, MORSE 3 — The Patriots traveled to Morse to take on the Tigers in Eastern League play, Tuesday (May 12) and cruised to the easy 23-3 victory.

Making her triumphant comeback after having surgery was Patriot pitcher GABY GRABOWSKI who did well in her two innings. ASHLEY CARTER came in and got the victory for the Patriots.

The Patriots offensively on the day were led by ANNA SHERBURNE 4-5 and SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA 3-4 and a walk.

GRANITE HILLS 10, MONTE VISTA 0 — The Eagles traveled to Monte Vista to take on the Monarchs in Grossmont Valley League play Tuesday (May 12) and came away with the 10-0 victory.

The Eagles jumped on the board first with a run in the top of the first on an RBI sacrifice by KAILA DeWITT 1-3 (RBI) scoring KAREN CREECH 1-2 (2 R) after she had led off with a triple. They would tack on another run in the top of the second inning on an RBI by KATIE WALL 2-3 (RBI, 2B) that scored HALLE KYLER 1-2 (RBI, 3 R).

It wouldn’t be until the top of the fifth when the Eagles would score again to go up 3-0 after CASSIDY SHEW 1-3 (2 RBI, R) doubled in Halle Kyler. They would finally break things open in the seventh inning as they pushed across seven runs to round out their scoring.

JESSIE LaPIERRE 1-3 (RBI, R), Halle Kyler and Cassidy Shew each had an RBI in the inning and KAYLA MACK 1-4 (2 RBI, R, 2B) knocked in two runs on her double.

Getting the pitching victory for the Eagles was Kaila Dewitt who tossed the complete game while giving up five hits and striking out seven.

The victory now sets up Thursday’s winner take all showdown with the Grossmont Foothillers to decide the Grossmont Valley League crown.

GROSSMONT 21, EL CAJON VALLEY 0 — The Grossmont Foothillers hosted the Braves of El Cajon Valley and were able to gain the 21-0 victory in 4 1/2 innings Tuesday (May 12) in Grossmont Valley League action.

It was Senior Day at Grossmont and before the game the Foothillers took a moment to recognize the seniors of El Cajon Valley and then they recognized their own seniors.

For the Foothillers KLARISSA ELLIOT, one of the two seniors, went 4-4 on the day and the other senior on the team, KIRA ELLIOTT, went 2-2 and had 2 RBI and also walked twice.

Taking the circle for the Foothillers was KAILEY DANIELS who would have had a perfect game but she led the game off with a walk. Despite this she was able to toss a one hitter and also went the distance which was only four and a half innings. She was able to fan 10 Braves on the day.

Foothillers give the fans free softball in the South Bay

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (5-10-15) &mdsah; In non-league action Saturday (May 9) the Grossmont Foothillers ventured down to the South Bay to take on the Otay Ranch Mustangs and dropped the contest 6-5 in 9 innings.

The Foothillers in the second inning got the jump on the Mustangs as they pushed across three runs to lead 3-0. DESTINY BACON singled to left, ALEXIS COLLINS singled to left moving Bacon to second, KIRA ELLIOTT reached on an infield hit to load the bases. With the Hillers in business, KATIE APPENZELLER stepped to the plate and ripped a single to left field scoring both Bacon and Collins, and Appenzeller moved up as well. The next batter CHLOE CAMARERO looked to add on as she banged another single to left field scoring Appenzeller.

With the Hillers leading, in the fourth inning they tacked on another run to lead 4-0 thanks to a couple of base hits. Destiny Bacon again laced a single, along with Kira Elliott, and Katie Appenzeller stepped up and smoked a hard shot to right field this time, which scored Bacon.

The Mustangs would finally get out of the inning and would actually push their first run of the game across to cut into the lead 4-1.

So leading by three runs, the Hillers were able to push across another run in the inning to make the score 5-1. Chloe Camarero poked a single to left and then she promptly stole second base. The next batter TAYLOR BAEZ looked to punch in Camarero and did so as she knocked a hit to left center to finalize the scoring.

Finally getting out of the inning without any further damage the Mustangs took full advantage of their opportunities by scoring twice to cut to a two run deficit 5-3.

Otay Ranch would round out their scoring with single runs in both the bottom of the sixth and seventh to send the game into extra innings.

The Hillers went empty handed in the top half of the eighth and ninth. In the bottom half the Mustangs were able to push across a run with no outs to end the game and gain the victory.

Metsch sisters power Valhalla to victory

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (5-8-15) — In a clash between two of the top teams in the East County, the host Valhalla Norseman came back and held on to beat the West Hills Wolf Pack 4-3 in Grossmont Hills League action Thursday (May 7).

The crowd in the bleachers filled each side and as an extra bonus the Valhalla Pep Band came and played, adding to the awesome atmosphere.

The Norsemen greet Abigail Metsch at the plate after she hit a 2 run, game winning HR to defeat West Hills. Photo courtesy of James Labshere.

The first couple of innings it was a back and forth contest as both teams retired each other with the pitching and defense. However that would change in the top of the third inning as the Wolf Pack would score first with a run to take the early 1-0 lead. Leadoff hitter ALEXIS HERRERA 1-3 (R) laced a single and advanced to second on a sacrifice by BROOKE ROBERTS 1-3 (R). RYLEIGH DOBYNS 2-3 (RBI, 2B) smacked a double that scored Herrera. The Norseman would get out of the inning without any further damage done.

In the fifth inning, West Hills was able to push another run across to extend their lead 2-0 thanks to an RBI by KENDALL MARINESI 2-3 (R, 2B) that scored Brooke Roberts. Leading 2-0, the Wolf Pack looked in good shape as their defense was doing the job.

However in the bottom of the sixth inning, the Norsemen were finally able to break through against Dobyns. The leadoff hitter for the Norsemen, DANIELLE UY 1-3 (R, 2B) banged a double, KATIE SCHMIDT 1-2 (RBI, R, 2B) smashed the 2-2 pitch for a double that scored Uy, Schmidt would move over on a sacrifice by ANNAMARIE IULIANO. LADY SARA FEDERICO would ground out for the second out of the inning. Things were looking good for West Hills as they had 2 outs and only the one run scored against. The next batter for Valhalla was freshman VICTORIA VILLEGAS 1-3 (RBI, R) who ripped the 1-1 pitch for an RBI single to tie the score 2-2.

So with two outs, the score tied at 2-2 and a runner at first, up stepped senior ABIGAIL METSCH 1-3 (2 RBI, R, HR) and on the first pitch by Dobyns, in dramatic fashion bombed it over the left field fence for the go-ahead two-run dinger to give the Norsemen the 4-2 lead. It was her homer fifth of the season. The Valhalla crowd went into a frenzy and her teammates all mobbed her as she crossed the plate. It was quite a sight.

The Wolf Pack got out of the inning on the very next batter.

With Valhalla now leading 4-2 the game was far from over as clashes between the two teams are never settled until the final out is recorded.

In the top of the seventh inning the Wolf Pack went to work as leadoff hitter Ryleigh Dobyns got on base via being hit by a pitch, she would be replaced for a courtesy runner who would be thrown out at third on the double by Kendall Marinesi. With Marinesi at second with only one down, ALEX GUAY stepped to the plate and rocketed a double that scored Marinesi to pull West Hills within 4-3. That is the closest they would get as the next two batters would ground out to end the game.

Taking the circle for Valhalla was LILY METSCH who went the distance for the victory, giving up 3 runs of which 2 were earned on 10 hits, walked none and struck out one.

As far as what ended up being the game winning homerun, when asked about it Abigail Metsch had this to say about it. “I just wanted to pick up my team and right when I hit it I took off out of the batters box.”

On the victory over West Hills, “It is the biggest win of the year. Anytime you play West Hills it’s a battle. The biggest thing I was proud of was that the girls didn’t quit against a college level pitcher,” said Valhalla head coach MARK OBNEY.

So with the victory the Norsemen keep their slim chances of catching West Hills alive for the league title as they are only one game back with two to play.

PATRICK HENRY 17, CHRISTIAN 11 — In Eastern League action, Thursday (May 7) the No. 3 Patrick Henry Patriots hosted the Christian Patriots and were able to out slug them 17-11.

In the first inning, Patrick Henry jumped out to a 6-0 lead thanks to a seven hit attack. SIERRA ALTMEYER 4-5 (8 RBI, 4 R, HR, 3B, 2 2B) smashed a two run double to score both HANNAH McEWEN 3-5 (3 R) and CASSIE VAN TIL 1-2 (R) who both started off with back-to-back doubles. DANIELLE ROMERO singled, SYDNEY JAMES 3-5 (3 RBI) singled scoring Altmeyer, MADDIE BARRAZA 2-3 (2 RBI, 2 R) hit into a fielder’s choice scoring Romero. ANYA VANDERSIP singled and would come around to score on MONTANA POTTS 3-5 (3 RBI, R) single.

In the bottom of the second, Patrick Henry would tack on another run to make it 7-0. However in the top of the third the Christian Patriots finally got on the board as they pushed across three runs to make it 7-3. Leadoff hitter ALEXA HENDERSON drew a walk and advanced to second on a wild pitch. ASHLEY CARTER 1-1 (2 R, SB) grounded into a fielder’s choice and would advance to second on another wild pitch, COURTNEY SKJERVE (R) drew a walk, SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA 3-4 (2 R) reached on an error which would score Carter, and both Espinoza and Skjerve would advance to second and third on a wild pitch. ANNA SHERBURNE 4-5 (3 RBI, R, 3 2B) banged a double that scored both Espinoza and Skjerve.

In the bottom half of the third, Patrick Henry would answer with four runs to make it 11-3, thanks to multiple base hits including a double by Altmeyer that scored McEwen.

The Christian Patriots kept fighting back as they scored a run in the top of the fourth by KATIE LEPETRIE (R, SB) who would end up stealing home. However in the bottom half, a massive three run homer by Sierra Altmeyer pulled Patrick Henry to a 14-4 lead.

The fifth inning saw the Christian Patriots cut into the lead by Patrick Henry as they scored four runs to make it 14-8. Scoring for the Patriots was Espinoza, Sherburne, SHANNON McMAHON and ELLE LINDBLAD 3-4 (2 R).

The Patrick Henry Patriots would score two more runs in the bottom of the fifth and then round out their scoring with a run in the bottom of the sixth.

In the top of the seventh inning the Christian Patriots tried to rally as they scored three runs but unfortunately their rally was ended on a ground out.

GRANITE HILLS 9, HELIX 1 — The visiting Granite Hills Eagles looked to avenge their first round loss to the host Helix Highlanders in Grossmont Valley League action Thursday (May 7). In the previous matchup the Highlanders pulled off the upset with a 7-5 victory but this time it was all Granite Hills as they claimed the 9-1 victory.

The Highlanders were the ones to score first as they put up a run to lead 1-0 early in the bottom of the first due to a walk by DESTINI BULLOCK 1-2 (R). She would come around to score on a double by MCKENZIE FLORES 3-3 (RBI, 2B).

The top of the second inning saw Granite Hills take the lead 2-1 on a couple of base hits by CASSIDY SHEW 2-3 (2 R) and KAYLA MACK 2-4 (2 R, 3B) who laced a triple that scored Shew.

The lead remained only a run until the top of the fourth inning when the Eagles batted around and opened the flood gates with seven runs on six hits. HALLE KYLER 2-4 (2 RBI, R) led off with a single, Cassidy Shew singled moving Kyler to second, Kayla Mack singled scoring Kyler and BRIELLE TYSELING 1-3 (RBI, R) singled scoring Shew. Mack moved to second, KAILA DEWITT reached on an error that scored Mack, VICTORIA HATHAWAY 1-3 (RUN) walked to load the bases and JESSIE LaPIERRE 1-3 (RUN) singled scoring Tyseling. Up came Kyler again and this time she doubled scoring both Hathaway and Dewitt, and finally Shew reached on an error that scored LaPierre.

For the Eagles, Kaila Dewitt went the distance for the victory, giving up 7 hits while fanning 3 on the day.

GROSSMONT 12, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 — The Grossmont Foothillers hosted the Mount Miguel Matadors in Grossmont Valley League play Thursday (May 7) and came away with the 12-0 victory.

The big day for the Foothillers belonged to CHLOE CAMARERO 2-4 (3 RBI, 2B, 3B) who almost hit an inside the park grand slam homerun but settled for the bases clearing triple. KIRA ELLIOTT went 2-2 on the day as did ALEXIS COLLINS.

Taking the circle for the Foothillers was KAILEY DANIELS who hurled a complete game shutout, walking 2 while striking out 3. On the day she was able to keep the ball down and the defense did the rest by making the plays.

STEELE CANYON 10, EL CAPITAN 7 — In Grossmont Hills League play the Steele Canyon Cougars played host to the El Capitan Vaqueros Thursday (May 7) and were able to hold off a late Vaquero rally by a score of 10-7.

The Cougars struck first in the bottom of the inning as they pushed across a couple of runs thanks to an RBI single by MAKAYLA McCARTHY 3-4 (2 RBI, 2 R, HR, 2 SB) that scored ELIZABETH SOLIS 2-4 (3 R, SB). MAKAYLA STROMENGER 1-2 (2 RBI, 3 R) who had been hit by a pitch also came into score in the inning as well.

However the two run lead by the Cougars wouldn’t last as the Vaqueros would even things up 2-2 in the top of the second inning. Leading off for the Vaqueros, KAYLA KRULL 1-2 (RBI, R, HR) crushed the first pitch offering for a solo homer over the centerfield fence, KACI HOSTETLER 2-4 (2R) singled, moved to second on a wild pitch, moved to third via a passed ball and would score on a sacrifice fly by KELSEY HENZIE.

The Cougars tacked on a run to take the 3-2 lead in the bottom of the third inning and would extend their lead even more with four runs in the bottom of the fifth inning to lead 9-2. The big blows in the inning were the back-to-back homers by KENDRA BUCKLEY 3-4 (3 RBI, R) who jacked a three-run dinger and Makayla McCarthy who hit a solo shot.

El Capitan in the top of the sixth inning answered with four runs to bring the score within 9-6. Leadoff hitter Kayla Krull walked and DANI PIMINTEL came in as a courtesy runner. Hostetler singled moving Pimintel to third, Henzie singled scoring Pimintel and moving Hostetler to third base, COURTNEY WILLIAMS 2-4 (RBI, R) singled scoring Hostetler, and finally KIM GARCIA doubled scoring Henzie.

The Cougars, however, answered with a couple of runs in the bottom of the inning on a two run blast by Makayla Stromenger to make the score 11-6. In the top of the seventh inning the Vaqueros tried to rally but only could push one run across to make the score 11-7.

For the Cougars, Kendra Buckley drew the circle duties going 5 innings, 4 runs of which 3 were earned on 5 hits while walking 4 and striking out 1. Gaining the save was Makayla McCarthy who tossed 2 innings, giving up 3 runs of which all were earned on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3 on the day.

MIRA MESA 8, SERRA 3 — In Eastern League action Thursday (May 7), Mira Mesa traveled to Serra and was able to maintain their lead in league with an 8-3 victory.

The Marauders got on the board first as they pushed across two runs in the top of the second inning to lead 2-0 early on. The Conquistadors would answer with a run in the bottom of the fourth inning to cut the lead to 2-1 thanks to a run scored by AMBER WOZNIAK 1-2 (R).

The top of the fifth inning saw the Marauders extend their lead further with four runs which included a solo homerun. They would tack on two more runs in the top of the sixth inning to round out their scoring.

Serra would score a couple of runs in the bottom of the seventh on a single by TARYN JELLISON 1-3 (R) and an RBI triple by VIVIA TOMOVICH 1-1 (RBI, R) scoring Jellison. Tomovich would score as well in the inning. The Marauders, after allowing the two runs, would finally retire the Conquistadors to end the game.

OTAY RANCH 8, SANTANA 3 — The Sultans traveled down to the South Bay to take on Otay Ranch in non-league action, Thursday (May 7) and came out on the short end 8-3.

Santana put up a run in the top of the fourth inning on a single by CELINE MENARD 2-4 (R). She would come in on a double by SOPHIA MARTORANA.

The Sultans would round out their scoring with two runs in the top of the seventh inning as ERICA REID 1-3 (R) and ALEXYS BARRY (R) would both score.

MONTE VISTA 16, EL CAJON VALLEY 6 — In Grossmont Valley League action Thursday (May 7) the Monte Vista Monarchs traveled to El Cajon Valley and came away with 16-6 victory in 5 innings. No other details provided.

Sultans pay tribute, then put scoreboard to work

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (5-6-15) — The El Capitan Vaqueros traveled to Santee, Tuesday (May 5) to take on the Santana Sultans in Grossmont Hills League play and in what ended up being an offensive explosion the Vaqueros were able to outslug the Sultans in the end for the 14-11 victory.

It was a beautiful day for a ballgame and also the second round in the rivalry. The first round went to the Sultans via 8-4. But before the offensive fireworks started the Sultans held a moment of silence to commemorate the year anniversary of the passing of BRIAN VAHALIK, one of the biggest supporters and fans of the program. Also to pay tribute to Brian Vahalik all the Sultans players and coaches wore orange uniform tops as the color orange was his favorite color.

The Santana Sultans wearing Brian's favorite color. Photo courtesy of Rachel Failla.

After the nice tribute the game began with the Vaqueros being retired in the top of the first inning. In the bottom of the first the Sultans quickly got on the board as CASSIDY MATTHIE 2-4 (run) singled, MACKENZIE BENNETT 4-5 (2 RBI, 2 2B) doubled, bringing home Matthie. ERICA REID (4 R) came in as a courtesy runner for Bennett, Reid scored when SYDNEY VATES 4-5 (3 RBI, 4 R, HR, 2B) doubled and she would score on the single by TAYLOR BRIGGS to make it 3-0.

The second inning saw the Vaqueros, with two outs, score five runs as JESSICA BAUER (2 RBI, R) and KIM GARCIA 3-4 (RBI, R) had back-to-back hits and they both stole second and third base, SHAYLA SCHOONARD walked to load the bases. GRACE BURKETT 3-5 (RBI, 3 R) singled, scoring Bauer. The inning saw Schoonard come in to score, as well as Burkett, ZANDRA RAGALE (2 R) and AMANDA VASQUEZ 2-3 (3 RBI, R, 2B) with an RBI double to give the Vaqueros a 5-3 lead.

The Sultans would answer in the bottom of the inning as they scored twice to tie the score 5-5 thanks to a one out single by Bennett, again Reid came in as a courtesy runner and stole second base. Sydney Vates singled advancing Reid who would score and Vates would come in later on a Briggs groundout.

The top of the fourth saw the Vaqueros retake the lead again as they pushed across four runs to lead 9-5. Leadoff hitter Grace Burkett singled, moved to second on the sacrifice bunt by Ragale, Amanda Vasquez flied out making it two outs, KAYLA KRUEL 2-3 (5 RBI, 2 R, HR, 2B) smashed a double scoring Burkett, KACI HOSTETLER singled advancing Kruel to third base. COURTNEY WILLIAMS 3-5 (RBI, R) singled, scoring Kruel and advancing Hostetler to second, Kim Garcia singled loading the bases, JESSICA BAUER singled, scoring Hostetler and Williams.

The Sultans in the bottom of the inning scored twice to pull within 9-7. However the Vaqueros thanks to a monster of a grand slam homerun in the top of the fifth by Kayla Kruel, the lead became 13-7. The Sultans, facing a six run deficit in the bottom of the inning, did their best to come back as they scored three runs to make it 13-10 thanks to an error and multiple base hits including an RBI by MACKENZIE REYNOLDS 4-5 (RBI).

The Vaqueros in the seventh inning would tack on their final run to make it 14-10. However in the bottom of the inning the Sultans would make it interesting and a controversial call would also add interest as well. Leadoff hitter Sydney Vates smashed the 2-1 offering so far over the centerfield fence that it actually cleared over the parking lot and the second fence into the tennis courts to make it 14-11.

The next batter Mackenzie Reynolds singled, advanced to second as JORDAN TEEGARDIN (2 RBI) reached on an error, HANNAH COSTELLO reached on an error advancing both Reynolds to third and Teegardin to second. With still only one out CELINE MENARD stepped to the plate and grounded to the shortstop who while in the baseline was hit by Teegardin as she was running, which led to the field umpire to call both her and the batter out. Now this call led to a short protest by Sultans coach JOHN FAILLA, in which the umpire gave the explanation of Rule 8, Section 6, Article 14 in the softball rulebook that he could make the call that it would have been a double play. The rule if you look it up basically is summed up to a judgment call by the umpire. So with the ruling of the umpire, the game ended with the Vaqueros winning.

Despite the weird ending it was an exciting game between the two teams with both offense and some excellent defensive plays as Sultans center fielder Cassidy Matthie made a spectacular play going all out for a ball, making the diving catch. For El Capitan it was Jessica Bauer making a spectacular snag out in right field to rob the Sultans of a hit.

Both teams combined for an amazing 34 hits which included 7 extra base hits. Amanda Vasquez picked up the pitching victory for the Vaqueros, going the distance.

Also of note: In attendance was East County coaching icon who helped coach many kids and some great teams throughout the years in football GINO BERTUSSI.

WEST HILLS 7, STEELE CANYON 0 — The West Hills Wolf Pack hosted the Steele Canyon Cougars, Tuesday (May 5) in Grossmont Hills League play and were able gain the shutout victory 7-0.

West Hills looking to distance themselves in the league did their thing as TESS EATON went the distance in accomplishing the first no-hitter of the season for the Wolf Pack. She had some help along the way as KENDALL MARINESI 2-2 (3 RBI, 2 R) smashed her second home run of the season giving the Wolf Pack a 2-0 lead after one inning.

In the second inning, West Hills scored three more times thanks to an RBI single by ALEX GUAY 1-4 (2 RBI). Scoring also in the inning was Kendall Marinesi, BROOKE ROBERTS 2-4 (RBI, 2 R) who singled and NIKKI LEGGATE who also singled to make the score 5-0. They would round out their scoring in the bottom of the sixth inning as Brooke Roberts and Kendall Marinesi each had an RBI base hit to make it 7-0.

Behind the pitching of Tess Eaton who picked up her fourth victory, the defense did their job scooping up every ground ball and catching every fly ball hit at them. Eaton on the day went seven innings, no hits, four walks while striking out five.

HELIX 6, EL CAJON VALLEY 0 — The Highlanders hosted the Braves of El Cajon Valley in Grossmont Valley League action, Tuesday (May 5) and gained the 6-0 victory.

Taking the circle for the Highlanders was VICTORIA CYMAN who went the full 7 innings in her no-hit bid.

The Highlander offense helped out as they poured in 9 hits. Early on though it was only 2-0 in favor of the Highlanders so the starters who didn't start came into the game in the fourth inning to put the game away.

In the fourth inning, MCKENZIE FLORES 2-2 (RBI, R, 3B) knocked in DESTINI BULLOCK with a triple, she would score on the single by JAYCIE MATTHEWS 2-4 (RBI, 2 R). Besides pitching, Cyman also went 2-4 (RBI, R).

Victoria Cyman, besides not giving up a hit, fanned 10 Braves on the day.

SERRA 6, CHRISTIAN 1 — The Serra Conquistadors traveled to El Cajon, Tuesday (May 5) to take on the Christian Patriots in Eastern League action and came away with the 6-1 victory.

For the Conquistadors in the circle DARBY TIBBETS tossed all seven innings while allowing one earned run on eight hits while striking out four.

Offensively in the first, VIVIAN TOMOVICH 2-3 (2 RBI, 2 R) provided an RBI double and ASHLEY BLAKELY 3-4(2 RBI) laced an RBI single to lead 2-0. They would tack on another run in the fourth thanks to an RBI single by Blakely that scored Tibbetts. Serra would score one run in both of the fifth and sixth innings as well.

For the Patriots, SILENT RAIN ESPINOZA went 2-3 on the day.

GROSSMONT 6, MONTE VISTA 1 — The Foothillers traveled to Spring Valley, Tuesday (May 5) to take on the Monte Vista Monarchs in Grossmont Valley League play and left with the 6-1 victory.

The first inning saw Grossmont jump out early thanks to CARLY PEARSON getting hit by a pitch. She moved to second on an AMBER ALLMANN sacrifice bunt, DESTINY BACON 4-4 (2 R) singled to left field moving Pearson to third base, KATIE APPENZELLER knocked in both Pearson and Bacon with a laced single to center field.

Grossmont would knock again in the fourth inning as Bacon led off with a single to center, KIRA ELLIOT singled to left field, ALEXIS COLLINS singled to center scoring Bacon to make it 3-0, and finally MEGAN MALWITZ boomed a double to the corner in left field, scoring both LILI FLORES who came in as a courtesy runner and Elliot to make it 5-0. They would tack on their final run in the fifth thanks to a leadoff solo blast of a shot by CHLOE CAMARERO.

The Monarchs pushed across their only run in the sixth as BRITNEY JACOBSON knocked in SIERRA GOLDHAGEN. GEENA HENDERSON went 2-3 for the Monarchs.

PATRICK HENRY 10, MORSE 0 — In Eastern League action the No. 3 Patrick Henry Patriots traveled to Morse High School to take on the Tigers. They easily gained the victory by a score of 10-0.

The Patriots got on board with two runs in the first inning thanks to a lead off double by HANNAH McEWEN who scored on an RBI single by SIERRA ALTMEYER. They would score two more in the top of the second as DANNIELLE ROMERO and CASSIE VAN TIL would both cross the plate to make it 4-0.

The third inning saw the Patriots round out their scoring as they pushed across six runs to lead 10-0 thanks to multiple base hits.

GRANITE HILLS 22, MOUNT MIGUEL 0 — The Granite Hills Eagles hosted the Mount Miguel Matadors in Grossmont Valley League action Tuesday (May 5) and easily handled them in the 22-0 victory.

The Eagles scored 22 runs despite only punching out seven hits. Offensively for the Eagles, KAYLA MACK had 2 RBI, HALLE KYLER had an RBI triple, KARA BLANCHARD had an RBI and 2 R, KATIE WALL smashed a double and scored twice, BRIELLE TYSELLING had an RBI and scored twice.

Pitching wise NICOLE GLIKO tossed 2 innings, hit a batter and struck out one. KAILA DEWITT tossed 3 innings, gave up one hit, hit a batter, walked one, and fanned three.

Guay powers Wolf Pack to victory

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (5-5-14) — The host West Hills Wolf Pack entertained the Southwest El Centro Eagles on Monday (May 4) and took an 11-9 non-league victory on their home field.

The Wolf Pack was eager to jump on the board early and they were able to as they scored three runs to lead 3-0. With one out in the bottom of the first RYLEIGH DOBYNS and KENDALL MARINESI 2-2 (RBI, R, SB) each drew walks bringing cleanup hitter ALEX GUAY 3-4 (5 RBI, R, 2B, HR) to the plate. The first pitch she saw was a ball, so with a 1-0 count on the very next pitch she swung and cranked it high and deep over the centerfield fence for a three run blast – her third on the season.

Despite having the three run lead, the top of the second inning was a shaky one as the Eagles were able to push across five runs to lead 5-3 thanks to six hits in the inning. Now trailing, West Hills was able to answer back with two of their own to tie the ball game. Leadoff hitter SIERRA SCHLICTING 1-1 (run, stolen base) was hit by a pitch, BROOKE ROBERTS 2-4 (run) sacrificed Schlicting over to second, Dobyns made the second out, Schlicting advanced to third on a wild pitch.

So with two down up stepped Kendall Marinesi who drew a walk, she then stole second base, Schlicting came in to score on a stolen base, and Marinesi came in on the RBI single by Alex Guay to knot the game at 5-5.

After tying the game, the Eagles in the top of the third inning retook the lead with three runs on six hits to lead 8-5. The Wolf Pack put up a little threat in the bottom of the third with a couple of runners on but were retired.

In the top of the fourth inning the Eagles tacked on another run to lead 9-5. In the bottom half, West Hills put a runner on as Kendall Marinesi smashed a one out double but unfortunately would be stranded.

Still trailing the Wolf Pack looked to shut down the Eagles and was finally able to keep them scoreless to keep things close. West Hills, trailing 9-5 heading into the bottom of the fifth, looked to chip away and get back into the contest. Doing what they have done for most of the year the Wolf Pack – one run at a time – scored five time to take the 10-9 lead.

Leadoff hitter PAIGE BOWLER 3-4 (2 RBI, 2 R, 2 HR) jump started the comeback with a solo bomb of a homerun over the right center field fence. The rest of the inning saw SAVANNAH HENDERSON single and score, Brooke Roberts single and score, Ryleigh Dobyns lace an RBI single, Kendall Marinesi single in a run and finally Alex Guay finishing things off with a smash RBI double.

When it was all said and done in the fifth inning, the Wolf Pack retook the lead thanks to the five runs on seven basehits.

Another happening in the inning saw West Hills coach MIKE APPLEBAUM get tossed from the game after a controversial call at the plate by the umpire calling the Wolf Pack runner out when clearly from the vantage point behind the backstop the runner had gotten her hand in before any tag could be made.

Only leading by one run, West Hills thanks to Ryleigh Dobyns and the defense retired the Eagles in order in the top of the sixth inning. So leading by the one run, the Wolf Pack looked to add some needed insurance. They accomplished the task thanks to the comeback and offensive catalyst of the previous inning, Paige Bowler who was able to repeat her previous inning as she jacked the 1-2 offering over the fence for her second of the game and also second of the season to give West Hills a 11-9 lead.

This was all Ryleigh Dobyns would need as she got the first two Eagle batters she faced in the top of the seventh to fly out and the third batter to ground out and end the game by retiring the side. Dobyns gained the win in relief as she went 5 1/3 innings, gave up 4 runs of which all were earned on 10 hits and struck out one.

It was an emotional roller coaster of a day and game for the Wolf Pack but they showed that they were a family by rallying and not caving in when things looked glum in the middle innings.

Bulldogs take a bit out of El Capitan

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (5-2-15) — In non-league action, the Ramona Bulldogs traveled to Lakeside to take on the El Capitan Vaqueros, Friday (May 1) and fought off the Vaqueros in a 3-0 victory.

Don't ever count out the Vaqueros no matter the score because they can come back anytime as shown throughout the game. The Bulldogs got on the board first thanks to an RBI double and an RBI single. They would also tack on their final run in the top of the third inning.

The Vaqueros tried to rally as they were able to put runners on in multiple innings but just couldn't get that timely hit.

In the bottom of the seventh they fought and threatened again as they had multiple runners on but a controversial call at third base wiped out a runner and then were retired via strikeout for the final two outs of the game.

For the Vaqueros, AMANDA VASQUEZ took the loss as she only gave up four hits, three runs of which none were earned, walked one and struck out one.

Foothillers score early and often

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (5-1-15) — In Grossmont Valley League play, Thursday (Apr. 30) the host Grossmont Foothillers took on the Helix Highlanders and came away with the decisive victory 11-1 in six innings.

The Foothillers after retiring the Highlanders in the top of the first inning got on the board quickly as they were able to push two runs across the board. The lead-off hitter CHLOE CAMARERO 3-4 (RBI, 2 R, 3B, SB) boomed a double, TAYLOR BAEZ 3-4 (2 RBI, R) singled and DESTINY BACON 2-4 (2 RBI) knocked them both in with a single to make it 2-0.

In the second inning the Foothillers added another run thanks to a lead-off single by MADDIE LINDSEY 4-4 (2 RBI), KLARISSA ARREOLA (2 R) came in as a courtesy runner, she would be moved over when Chloe Camarero singled and would score on the single by CARLY PEARSON 2-4 (2 R, 2 SB) to make it 3-0 in favor of Grossmont.

Trailing, the Highlanders looked to get on the board and chip at the lead of Grossmont in the top of the third inning. With two outs, CLARISSA SMITH 3-3 (run) got on base thanks to a single and would come in on the very next play as DESTINI BULLOCK smashed a double to make it 3-1.

In the bottom of the fourth inning, Carly Pearson singled and stole second base and would be knocked in by Taylor Baez on her single to make it 4-1. The very next inning in the bottom of the fifth is when Grossmont broke open the flood gates with six runs to make it 10-1 thanks to a plethora of base hits.

They would end the game in the bottom of the sixth thanks to a single by KIRA ELLIOT who came around to score on a base hit by Maddie Lindsey to round it out at 11-1.

Grossmont pitcher CASSIDY DAVILA went the distance giving up a run on eight hits while striking out three.

STEELE CANYON 9, SANTANA 6 — The Steele Canyon Cougars looked to build upon their victory from Tuesday when they beat Valhalla when they took on the visiting Santana Sultans in Grossmont Hills League play, Thursday (Apr.30). The Cougars were able to hold off the Sultans 9-6.

In the bottom of the first inning the Cougars jumped out quickly to a 3-0 lead thanks to the first three hitters, ELIZABETH SOLIS (2 R), MAKAYLA STROMENGER, 1-3 (RBI, R), and MAKAYLA MCCARTHY 3-4 (RBI, R) smashing a double scoring Solis. KENDRA BUCKLEY (RBI, R) would ground out scoring Stromenger, the next batter JENNA RITTER would knock in McCarthy with a single to give the Cougars a 3-0 lead.

The Cougars tacked on another run in the bottom of the second inning thanks to Solis reaching on an error and later coming around to score on a double by Stromenger to make it 4-0. They would push across two runs in both the third and fourth innings to make it 8-0.

The Sultans in the top of the sixth finally got on the board as they scored two runs thanks to a single by TAYLOR BRIGGS 1-1 (2 R), MACKENZIE BENNETT 1-4 (2 RBI, 2 R) reaching on an error and SYDNEY BENJAMIN 2-2 (3 RBI) knocking them both in with a booming double. Now the score was 8-2 Steele Canyon. In the bottom of the inning the Cougars tacked on another run to make it 9-2.

The top of the seventh inning saw the Sultans make the game interesting as they tried to rally with four runs to pull within 9-6. Lead-off hitter ERICA REID walked, ALEXYS BARRY was hit by a pitch, Briggs walked, so with the bases loaded, Bennett stepped to the plate and ripped a double, scoring both Reid and Barry to make it 9-4. Sydney Vates next laced a single scoring both Briggs and Bennett to round out the scoring. Unfortunately the late rally by the Sultans wasn’t enough as the Cougars were able to finally end the game.

For the Cougars Makayla McCarthy went 6 1/3 innings, giving up five runs of which three were earned on two hits, walked six while striking out eight for the victory.

PATRICK HENRY 2, SCRIPPS RANCH 2 (TIE) – In what might be one of the longest games of the season the No. 4 Patrick Henry Patriots traveled to No. 7 Scripps Ranch in Eastern League play Thursday (Apr. 30) and even after four hours no winner was decided as both teams tied 2-2 after 16 innings of play.

The Patriots got on the board first as they scored two runs in the top of the third inning thanks to CASSIE VAN TIL reaching on a fielder’s choice. She would then steal second base and come around to score on a base hit by HANNAH McEWEN. SYDNEY JAMES smashed a double that scored McEwen to make it 2-0. This would last until the bottom of the seventh when Scripps Ranch was able to rally and score two of their own to tie at 2-2.

Both teams would go scoreless until the end of the 16th inning when due to darkness the umpires called the game. So now one would think what do they do in case of a tie?

Well according to the league guidelines if both teams win out and tie for first, then they would play a one game playoff to determine the league champion to be played one day after the regular season is over.

Another tidbit about the game is that both pitchers, MADISON “MJ” JAMES for Patrick Henry and MAKAYLA MARTIN for Scripps Ranch each went the full 16 innings. James on the day 16 innings, nine hits, two runs both of them earned, two walks while fanning 16. Martin for Scripps Ranch went 16 innings, 10 hits, two runs both of them earned and she also struck out 16 batters.

VALHALLA 10, EL CAPITAN 7 — In Grossmont Hills League action, the visiting Valhalla Norsemen were able to hold off an El Capitan rally to win 10-7, Thursday (Apr. 30).

The Norsemen in the first inning quickly jumped out to an 8-0 lead thanks to the first six batters all reaching safely. The trailing Vaqueros finally retired the Norsemen and in the bottom of the inning were able to make a comeback and cut the lead in half as they pushed across four runs to make it 8-4.

Both teams went scoreless until the Vaqueros were able to score three runs in the fifth inning to pull within 8-7. KAYLA KRUEL led off with a single, NICOLE VICARRO came in as a courtesy runner, KACI HOSTETLER singled moving Vicarro to second base, KIM GARCIA singled, which scored Vicarro. AMANDA VASQUEZ moved the runners up with a sacrifice bunt and COURTNEY WILLIAMS blasted a double scoring both Hostetler and Garcia. However that would be all the Vaqueros would garner as the Norsemen were able to get out of the inning.

The Norsemen in the bottom of the sixth inning brought in TORI BASSETTE in relief for LILY METSCH. She was able to retire the Vaqueros. In the seventh inning, Valhalla was able to push across a couple of insurance runs thanks to a couple of singles and a throwing error. In the bottom of the seventh inning the Vaqueros were retired to end the game.

For the Norsemen, Lily Metsch garnered the victory while Tori Bassette came in and pitched two scoreless innings for the save.

GRANITE HILLS 37, EL CAJON VALLEY 0 — The Granite Hills Eagles traveled to El Cajon Valley, Thursday (Apr. 30) to take on the Braves in Grossmont Valley League action and won easily 37-0.

The Eagles in scoring the amount of runs they did broke a couple of records. They broke their own school record, which was 33 set against Mount Miguel earlier this month, and secondly they set a new Grossmont Conference record, breaking the old mark of 34 runs set by El Capitan in 2014 against Monte Vista, and jumped into sixth place of the CIF record book just behind Holtville who scored 38 against Vincent Memorial back in 1992.

In case you were wondering the record for most runs in a game is 71 set by La Jolla Country Day back in 1972 against Southland Christian.

For Granite Hills on the day, KAREN CREECH 3-3 (3 RBI, 2 R, 2B), BRIELLE TYSELING 2-2 (6 RBI, 5 R, 2B), JESSIE LaPIERRE 1-1 (4 RBI, 3 R), KAYLA MACK 2-2 (4 RBI, 2 R), HALLE KYLER 5-7 (3 RBI, 5 R).

Getting the complete game victory, NICOLE GLIKO went the full five innings, giving up zero runs on one hit while walking one and striking out eight.

SERRA 9, MORSE 3 — The Serra Conquistadors hosted the Morse Tigers in Eastern League play, Thursday (Apr. 30) and came away with the 9-3 victory.

In the bottom of the first inning the Conquistadors were able to push across four runs thanks to ASHLEY BLAKELY who laced an RBI single and TARYN JELLISON who smashed a three-run triple.

In the fourth inning they tacked on five more runs thanks to an RBI single by AMBER WOZNIAK, an RBI double by Blakely, an RBI single by VALERIE VALADEZ and another couple of RBIs for Jellison as she roped a double.

Pitching wise it was DARBY TIBBETTS garnering the victory going seven innings, allowing two earned runs on six hits while fanning four.

MONTE VISTA 22, MOUNT MIGUEL 5 — In Grossmont League action, Thursday (Apr. 30) in Spring Valley, the visiting Monarchs cruised to the 22-5 victory over the host Matadors.

Offensively for the Monarchs, BRITTANY JACOBSON was 3-4, GEENA HENDERSON 3-4 (2B), and JAYDE GOLDHAGEN 3-4 (2B, 3B, 3 SB).

MIRA MESA 13, CHRISTIAN 2 — The Mira Mesa Marauders traveled to Christian High to take on the Patriots in Eastern League play, Thursday (Apr. 30) and won 13-2.

For the Patriots, ASHLEY CARTER took the loss. Offensively it was ANNA SHERBURNE and TAYLOR MILLER each with an RBI.