Atherton, CA – Menlo Softball put together a strong showing against Hawaii Pacific, winning two of three games in a competitive PacWest series. The Oaks displayed resilience on both sides of the ball, securing key victories in Games 2 and 3 to claim the series.
Menlo's Standout Performers
Offensive Leaders
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Emma Medina – 3-for-7, 2 2B, 3 R (Series)
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Grace Christian - 4-for-6, 2 RBI, 1 R (Series)
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Jolena Velasquez – 1-for-5, 1 RBI, SH, SB (Series)
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Tacia Kahalewai – 3-for-5, 2 RBI, 1 R, 1 2B, SB (Series)
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Sofia Quintero – 4-for-5, 1 R (Series)
Pitching Leaders
Game 1: Menlo 0 - 3 HPU
The doubleheader opener was a tough start for Menlo as they struggled to generate offense against Hawaii Pacific's pitching staff. The Oaks had their opportunities but couldn't come through with runners in scoring position. Despite a strong defensive effort, the Sharks broke through with a two-run fourth inning, capitalizing on a couple of key hits.
Menlo showed promising efforts, once in the bottom of the first inning when Emma Medina doubled to center field, but the next batters were retired, leaving her stranded. That would be a theme throughout the game, as the Oaks managed only four hits and left multiple runners on base.
Destanee Perez began the first game in the circle for the Oaks and went 3.1 innings. Through 14 at-bats, she managed to only walk one Shark and allow two earned runs. Shelby White came in relief for the final 3.2 innings and struck out two batters, but could not find her rhythm enough to shut down Hawaii Pacific's offense.
Game 2: Menlo 9 - 4 HPU
The Oaks came roaring back in Game 2 with an offensive explosion, scoring three runs in the first inning and never looking back. Emma Medina led off the inning with a double to left field and Tacia Kahalewai reached base after getting hit. The two went on to score on aggressive baserunning after a single from Grace Christian. A sacrifice fly from Jolena Velasquez extended the lead, giving Menlo early momentum.
Hawaii Pacific made a push in the second and third innings, cutting the lead to 4-3, but Menlo responded with a four-run fifth inning to put the game out of reach. Tacia Kahalewai delivered the big hit of the game, a two-run double to the right-center gap, followed by Grace Christian's RBI single. The Oaks' pitching staff shut down the Sharks from that point on, with Shelby White starting the game and Rosaline Torralva closing the game with a strong relief outing and earning her first collegiate win!
Up Next…
Menlo Softball will look to build on this success as they continue PacWest play, using their balanced attack and strong pitching performances to stay competitive in the conference race. The Oaks will host another home series next week starting with a single game on Friday, March 21st at 11am against the Silverswords of Chaminade University!
