February 17, 2024

Warriors Bounce Back with Two Wins

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After a tough previous series, the Westcliff softball team found their stride as they took the doubleheader against the Chapman University Panthers 5-2 and 3-0.
 
Before the games, the message from head coach Brandon Wallace was simple, "Have fun."
 
"We're making strides to be better but at the end of the day, we need to have some fun," Wallace said. "We need to stop pressing and being so serious all the time. Have fun like the movie Sandlot.
 
"Throw the ball around and enjoy where we're at and be present. By doing that and making some changes in the line-up, they did a heck of a job. We're very proud of them."
 
It was a different atmosphere and energy which the Warriors brought to this doubleheader and the audience could feel how important getting these wins would be.
 
In game one, Westcliff scored five runs in seven hits with solid performances from Etta Van Burgsteden and Emily Rosas out on the mound.
 
Alexyia Reyes was (2-for-3) with an RBI. 
 
Airilin Ramirez, Siana San Vicente, Celeste Huffman, Kassidy Moore, and Abigail Rainwater were able to find contact with the ball with one hit each.
 
At the mound, Rosas was able to finish the job with a strikeout, and a couple of hits lined out the infield.
 
In the second game, both teams were at a stalemate until the bottom of the sixth when it was the Warriors' turn to bat.
 
With the bases loaded, Olivia stepped up to the plate with a chance to take the lead at a crucial point.
 
"I told Olivia, this is your type of pitcher," Wallace said. "She pitches everything from knee height, be very patient. You've been here before. 
 
"She came up very clutch for us."
 
Pino doubled to left center which brought in 3 RBIs, taking the lead and the whole energy of the ballpark with them.
 
The Panthers had one more chance in the top of the seventh but there was no way Westcliff's pitcher Rosas would let this lead escape.
 
Rosas took care of business striking out two batters while the third grounded out.
 
In the second game, Rosas recorded 10 strikeouts and only allowed three hits.
 
"It's very exciting to see her personality and character out there," Wallace said. "Just need to stay settled and work the zone."
 
With the wins, the Warriors improve to 5-7 with plenty of more home games to come.
 
Next, they will play OUAZ on Friday, September 23rd. The first pitch is scheduled for 12:00 p.m.