AZUSA, CA – Menlo Softball launched conference action on Friday with a doubleheader against Azusa Pacific University at the Cougar Complex. The Oaks battled hard in both games, showing resilience and key offensive moments, but ultimately fell short in their efforts.

Statistical Leaders and Key Moments

• Lucy Brooks led the Oaks offensively in Game 1, going 3-for-3 with three RBIs, including a crucial two-run double.

• Gabrielle Rodriguez had a strong performance, collecting two hits and an RBI.

• Aleatha Buchner contributed with two hits and a run scored.

• Destanee Perez pitched a complete game in Game 1, striking out one and allowing eight hits.

• Bella Cortez recorded nine putouts in Game 2, anchoring the infield defense.

Game 1: Menlo 4 - 5 Azusa Pacific

Menlo found themselves in an early deficit after Azusa Pacific plated five runs in the first inning. However, the Oaks' pitching settled in, keeping the Cougars scoreless for the remainder of the game. The offense came alive in the fifth inning when Lucy Brooks delivered a two-run double to get Menlo on the board. Gabrielle Rodriguez followed with an RBI single, cutting the deficit to two runs.

Despite another late push in the seventh, where Menlo managed to put runners on base, the Oaks couldn't complete the comeback, falling 4-5 in a hard-fought opener. Perez's resilience in the circle kept Menlo within striking distance, while the defense held strong after the opening frame.

Game 2: Menlo 0 - 6 Azusa Pacific

The second game of the doubleheader saw the Oaks struggle offensively against dominant pitching from the Cougars. Menlo was limited to just two hits, with Gabrielle Rodriguez and Bella Cortez each collecting one. Shelby White got the start in the circle, working through early traffic but limiting damage through the first three innings.

Azusa Pacific broke through in the middle innings, using a combination of extra-base hits and solid baserunning to build a lead. Menlo's defense made several key plays, including sharp infield work from Alexandra Attard and a running grab in the outfield by Aleatha Buchner. However, the Oaks were unable to generate enough offense, eventually falling 0-6 to close out the series.

Up Next….

Menlo Softball will look to bounce back tomorrow for another doubleheader against the Cougars of Azusa Pacific starting at 12pm!